Once upon a time, the City of Casey was just a dream. Today, it stands as Victoria’s most populous municipality. The City of Casey is located in the outer south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne. With a population of 365,239 in 2021, it is a vibrant and growing community.
The City of Casey was established in 1994. It was formed by merging the City of Berwick with parts of the Shire of Cranbourne. A slice of the City of Knox was also included. The city is named after Lord Casey. He was the 16th Governor-General of Australia.
The geography of the City of Casey is diverse. It stretches from the Dandenong Ranges to the Western Port shoreline. The northern part features grazing land and small vineyards. An Urban Growth Boundary protects this area. South of Cranbourne, you’ll find farmland. Market gardening and grazing are common here. Flower farms dot Junction Village. There is also a chicken processing plant in Clyde.
The southern boundary meets Western Port. Fishing villages like Tooradin and Warneet are found here. Protected marine reserves line the coast. Cardinia Creek forms part of the city’s border. It drains into Western Port.
Until 2024, the City of Casey had six wards. These were Balla Balla, Edrington, Four Oaks, Mayfield, River Gum, and Springfield. Each ward elected councillors. The councillors then elected a mayor each year.
In February 2020, the Victorian Minister for Local Government dismissed all Casey councillors. This followed a report of governance failures. Interim administrators were appointed. Elections were held on 26 October 2024.
The City of Casey offers many places of interest. Akoonah Park is a popular destination. Casey RACE is a recreation and aquatic center. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne are stunning. Wilson Botanic Park is another green space to explore.
Townships and localities within the City of Casey include Berwick and Cranbourne. Clyde and Narre Warren are also significant. The population has grown substantially. From 299,301 in 2016 to 365,239 in 2021.
Melbourne City Football Club is based in the City of Casey. The Casey Demons represent the city in the Victorian Football League. Their home ground is at Casey Fields Complex. The Casey Cavaliers are the local basketball club.
Community Radio 97.7 FM 3SER serves the City of Casey. The city established a friendship link with Ioannina, Greece, in 1998. This lapsed in 2008.
The City of Casey continues to evolve. It balances urban growth with preserving its natural environment. From its rich history to its vibrant present, the City of Casey offers something for everyone. It is a place where community and opportunity thrive.