Before European settlement a boomerang-shaped sandy beach existed. Aborigines called it Karrum Karrum. This is Carrum Downs today.
Carrum Downs is a suburb in Melbourne. It’s located 48 kilometers southeast of Melbourne’s Central Business District. The area was once a vast swamp called Carrum Swamp. This swamp was a significant natural barrier for early explorers. It measured approximately 15 kilometers from north to south.
Imagine the early settlers. They saw a rich hunting ground teeming with wildlife. The swamp provided a habitat for diverse plants and animals. The high lands visible in the swamp were the Isles of Wannarkladdin now Chelsea Heights. The swamp’s waters came from creeks like the Dandenong and Eumemmerring. The catchment area was about 430 square kilometers. Towns like Langwarrin Cranbourne Berwick and many others surrounded this vast wetland.
The first survey of Carrum Swamp happened in 1866. A fisherman’s cottage was the only European structure noted. The land was divided into allotments. These were sold in Melbourne. The upset price was $6 per acre. Most land went to investors. However some development occurred near Mordialloc a fishing village. Carrum Downs Post Office opened in 1909.
Hugh Brown bought swampside land. He built his home Pine Vale. He was a significant figure. He served as a councillor and later President of the Shire of Dandenong. He was known for his Carrum potatoes. Wild cattle roamed the swamplands during his time.
The Great Depression saw the Brotherhood of St Laurence build a settlement. This provided shelter and food. After World War II the suburb was redeveloped into a village for aged people.
Botany Park is a housing estate built in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Generous lots attracted families. The area was affordable and close to Frankston. The Botany Bush area was later redeveloped into housing in the 1990s.
A devastating bushfire hit Carrum Downs in 2018. A 15-year-old girl intentionally started the fire in the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve. The fire threatened homes.
Today Carrum Downs is a mix of modern homes with gardens. It features large shopping centers. There’s even a large Hindu temple the largest in Victoria. The suburb has also become the star of a viral video Just waiting for a mate. This was filmed in a Coles Supermarket carpark and featured on Highway Patrol.
Carrum Downs has seen incredible change. From a swamp to a thriving suburb. It holds a rich history and a vibrant community. A testament to its resilience and growth. It’s a fascinating place to explore.