Avondale Heights

The Maribyrnong River, a serpentine ribbon winding through Melbourne’s western suburbs, carries a rich history. And right here, on its banks, you stand at the heart of Avondale Heights. Avondale Heights, a suburb steeped in history, grew from a humble beginning, once dotted with small farms and market gardens. At the western edge of Canning Street, you’ll find Solomon’s Ford, a testament to the area’s past. It was once the only land route from Melbourne to Geelong, a crucial link westward. In 1803, Charles Grimes, the New South Wales Surveyor-General, explored the area and recognized Solomon’s Ford as a natural crossing point. During World War I, the Canning Street Bridge, now known as Cordite Bridge, was heavily guarded. After the war, Avondale Heights became a focal point for recreation, with the construction of the grand and popular Riverview Tea Gardens. This bustling hub, offering boat excursions, tea gardens, tennis courts, and a dance hall, drew tourists from Melbourne. But the Tea Gardens fell into disrepair after World War II, leaving a beautiful riverside reserve in its wake. The suburb itself was transformed as small farms gave way to housing, offering breathtaking views of the city from the plateau. However, the legacy of the past can still be felt here, in the names of streets and the echoes of a simpler time. As you walk these streets, imagine the sound of farm animals, the scent of ripe fruits, and the joy of bustling tea gardens. Avondale Heights invites you to step into a world of yesterday and experience a blend of history and modern life.