Burwood East

Tucked away in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Burwood East whispers tales of orchards and innovation. Burwood East wasn’t always a bustling suburb. Imagine fields of jonquils and daffodils, their vibrant colors painting the landscape. These flowers, along with apples, cherries, and pears, were cultivated here in the 19th and 20th centuries, supplying Melbourne’s bustling markets. One orchardist, Walter Mock, even developed the Red Williams pear variety right here in Burwood East during the 1930s. These pears became so popular they were exported to Europe and North America. Burwood East is also home to a retail revolution. In 1969, Australia’s first Kmart department store opened its doors at the intersection of Burwood Highway and Blackburn Road. This 24-hour store was a game-changer, offering a new level of convenience to shoppers. This very Kmart remains a landmark in Burwood East, standing as the second largest in Australia. The Tally Ho Business Park, located on the corner of Burwood Highway and Springvale Road, now houses numerous corporations. However, this land once held the Tally Ho Boys’ Home, established on land provided at a reduced price to the Methodist Church by Abel Hoadley, the inventor of the Violet Crumble chocolate bar. From blossoming orchards to retail giants and bustling business parks, Burwood East has transformed itself while holding onto echoes of its past. The spirit of innovation and growth continues to shape this unique suburb, making it a fascinating piece of Melbourne’s story.