Springvale

Local History of Springvale, Victoria, Australia

Springvale is a suburb located in the southeastern part of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is situated 23 kilometers southeast of the Melbourne Central Business District and is known for its rich history and multicultural community.

Early Settlement in the Area

The land that Springvale now occupies was originally inhabited by the Bunurong people, a clan of the Boon Wurrung tribe. In 1838, European settlers arrived in the area and began to establish farms.

In the mid-1850s, gold was discovered in the region which led to an influx of miners and prospectors. One of the miners who arrived was the Englishman, William Spring, who gave his name to the area after he bought land there in 1865.

Development of Springvale

Springvale developed into a bustling community in the early 1900s, with the construction of the railway line connecting Melbourne and Dandenong in 1879. The railway made it easier and quicker to travel to and from Springvale, and played a major role in the development of the suburb as a commercial and residential center.

The first post office in the area opened in 1887, and the first school was established in 1892. During this time, Springvale was mostly an agricultural community, with dairy farming being the main industry.

Multiculturalism in Springvale

Springvale’s multicultural nature began to emerge in the post World War II era, when a significant number of immigrants from Europe arrived in Australia. In the 1970s and 1980s, a large number of Vietnamese refugees arrived in the area, which transformed Springvale into a vibrant and diverse community.

Today, Springvale is a hub for Southeast Asian culture, with many restaurants, shops, and markets that sell a wide range of goods from different parts of Asia.

Notable Landmarks in Springvale

One of the most well-known landmarks in Springvale is the Springvale Botanical Cemetery, which was opened in 1901. The cemetery covers an area of 44 hectares and is home to many historic gravesites.

The Sandown International Raceway, a world-renowned motor racing circuit, is located in the nearby suburb of Noble Park.

Cedar College, one of the oldest schools in Springvale, has been serving the community since 1967. The college offers classes from kindergarten to Year 12 and has a strong focus on academic excellence and community involvement.

History of in Springvale

Springvale’s rich history and multicultural community makes it a unique and vibrant suburb in Melbourne. With its diverse range of shops, markets, and landmarks, there is always something new to discover in Springvale.