Montmorency

Tucked away in the suburbs of Melbourne, Montmorency is a place brimming with quirky charm. Montmorency isn’t just your average suburb. It’s a place where the echoes of history intertwine with the vibrant pulse of modern life. Montmorency was named after a local farm, the Montmorency Estate. This estate, in a delightful twist, borrowed its name from the French town of Montmorency, once home to the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The locals, in their typical Aussie fashion, have shortened the name to “Monty”. You’ll see this nickname sprinkled throughout the area, from shopfronts to community groups. Montmorency has a rich history, starting with the Wurundjeri-willam people, the original inhabitants of this land. The area transitioned through various owners, including Stuart Alexander Donaldson, the first Premier of New South Wales. He owned the Montmorency Estate until the 1840s. The suburb began to take shape in 1917 with the construction of a Presbyterian church. This marked the start of a community that would blossom over the following decades. The arrival of the Hurstbridge railway line in 1923, with a station right in Montmorency, further spurred its growth. Imagine the transformation from orchards and farms to a bustling suburb. The population exploded from a mere 200 in 1922 to 600 in 1950, and then fivefold by the end of the 1950s. This growth brought with it a modern shopping centre, factories, and a vibrant community. Today, the heart of Montmorency beats along Were Street. This main commercial street is a refreshing anomaly in an age of chain stores. It boasts a unique character, with a low proportion of national franchises. Instead, you’ll find locally owned businesses, each adding to the distinct flavor of Montmorency. One of the standout features of Were Street is the three-storey high ornamental aeration windmill. It stands proudly at the intersection of Were Street and Rattray Road, a quirky landmark that speaks to Montmorency’s unique charm. Look down as you stroll along Were Street, and you’ll discover another unique detail. The footpaths are adorned with mosaic pictures. These mosaics depict scenes from the oral histories of Montmorency, a beautiful tribute to the stories and memories of the community. Beyond Were Street, Montmorency offers a variety of experiences. A second business precinct on Grand Boulevard caters to small offices. Mountain View Road houses an RSL, a lawn bowls club, and a Scout hall with access to Petrie Park Oval. For sports enthusiasts, Montmorency Park is home to the Montmorency Football Club and the Lower Plenty Football Club. Nature lovers can explore the hilly parklands along the Plenty River or relax in one of the many neighbourhood parks. Montmorency is more than just a suburb; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with history, community, and a touch of quirky charm. As you leave Montmorency, remember the mosaics underfoot, the windmill standing tall, and the echoes of Rousseau in the air. They are all reminders of a place with a story to tell.