In 1837 Robert Hoddle envisioned East Melbourne. He planned its streets in a perfect grid. This differed from Melbourne’s other streets. Those streets followed the Yarra River’s winding course.
East Melbourne is a small inner-city suburb. It’s nestled between Richmond and Melbourne’s Central Business District. It boasts a rich history. It has long been home to important government institutions. These include the Victorian Parliament. It also houses significant health and religious institutions.
Eastern Hill a gentle rise is home to the Parliamentary and Cathedral precincts. These precincts are landmarks of East Melbourne. This area was once known as Ngár-go. This means high ground in the Wurundjeri language. The Wurundjeri people inhabited this land for tens of thousands of years.
East Melbourne’s story begins in 1840. This was when the area was finally settled. Wealthy professionals followed. They built grand mansions. These mansions are some of the oldest Victorian homes in Melbourne. Charles La Trobe. the first Superintendent of the Port Phillip District was an early resident. He built a transportable dwelling here in 1840.
The 1960s and 70s saw changes in East Melbourne. Other inner-city suburbs experienced gentrification. East Melbourne however saw a temporary decline. Many old mansions were converted into rooming houses. The construction of the Hilton Hotel led to the demolition of Cliveden Mansion. This mansion was the largest in Melbourne. Fortunately some of its features remain in the Hilton’s restaurant.
The 1990s brought renewed prosperity to East Melbourne. Property prices soared. The Becton development in Jolimont created a prestigious enclave. Many remaining mansions and terraces were added to heritage registers. They were also subdivided into apartments. The Victoria Brewery was converted into the TriBeCa apartments. The name pays homage to the Manhattan neighbourhood.
East Melbourne’s location is highly desirable. It is close to the city centre. Its streetscapes remain relatively unspoilt. This contributes to its high property values. The area also features impressive Victorian era gardens. Treasury Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens are among the largest. Yarra Park is used for recreation and controversially car parking for the MCG.
East Melbourne. A blend of history and modernity. A vibrant suburb that preserves its past while embracing the future. A place where the echoes of the past mingle with the energy of today. Come discover its many secrets.