Nestled within Melbourne’s sprawling suburbs lies Huntingdale. It’s a place of contrasts, where the hum of industry meets the quiet charm of residential streets. Huntingdale is a relatively young suburb, officially separated from Oakleigh East in 1955. Both the post office and railway station, originally named East Oakleigh, adopted the Huntingdale name that same year. The station, a vital transport hub for Monash University students, received a major upgrade in 2018. This included a new bus interchange and car park.
Huntingdale has a rich multicultural tapestry. A mosque and Hindu temple stand as testaments to its diverse community. The Australian Islamic Bangladesh Council calls Huntingdale home, further enriching its cultural fabric. The Sankat Mochan Kendra centre, opened on North Road in 2014, serves as a vital community resource. It provides free meals and offers support to women and children in domestic violence situations. It also assists recent Indian migrants as they navigate their new lives in Australia. Sadly, in 2015, the Huntingdale Mosque was targeted in an attack. A brick was thrown through a window. This incident underscores the importance of continued efforts towards tolerance and understanding within the community.
Huntingdale is more than just residences and industry. Along Huntingdale Road, a small commercial strip straddles the border with Oakleigh. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops and services catering to diverse needs. A halal butcher, a grocery store, a fruit market, and a Subway restaurant offer a taste of the suburb’s multiculturalism. An IGA, various restaurants and cafes, a laundromat, a pharmacist, a 24-hour gym, and a post office cater to everyday needs. There’s even a True Buddha School building tucked away on Stafford Street.
On the corner of Huntingdale Road and North Road, you’ll find another commercial hub. This area boasts a gaming bar and cafe alongside the Sankat Mochan Samiti Temple. This vibrant corner sits adjacent to the Oakleigh Barracks. Although technically located in the neighboring suburb of Oakleigh South, Huntingdale Primary School serves the local children. The school stands out for its unique bilingual program where students learn in both English and Japanese. Nearby, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Huntingdale Golf Club, also located in Oakleigh South. This club opened its doors in 1941 and has become a popular destination for golfers in the area. From its industrial heart to its diverse community, Huntingdale offers a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of Melbourne’s suburbs.