What does “Bad Earth” mean to you? That’s what the local Aboriginal Woiwurrung people called this land long ago. We are standing in the Shire of Nillumbik. It’s a place where Melbourne’s outer suburbs meet the quiet Australian bush.
The Shire of Nillumbik came to be in 1994. It was formed from parts of Eltham, Diamond Valley, Healesville and Whittlesea shires. Nillumbik covers 432 square kilometers. In 2021, over 62,895 people called it home.
Nillumbik proudly wears the name “The Green Wedge Shire”. This is because it protects Melbourne’s green belt. Much of the area features steep hills and gentle slopes. Plains and flats nestle in between. Kinglake National Park adds to the natural beauty. Lifestyle properties dot the landscape. There are also hobby farms, orchards and wineries here.
Nillumbik wasn’t always smooth sailing. In 1998, the council was suspended. Infighting was affecting its ability to function. However, Nillumbik recovered. In 2008, it ranked third in Australia for quality of life.
The Shire of Nillumbik has many towns and localities. These include Diamond Creek, Eltham and Hurstbridge. In Eltham, you will find Nillumbik’s oldest public building. It is the Eltham Courthouse. It was carefully restored in 2022.
Need a good read? The Eltham Library and Diamond Valley Library are great places to visit. They are run by the Yarra Plenty Regional Library. A mobile library also serves smaller towns like St Andrews.
For those wanting to learn, there is Nillumbik U3A. It offers courses for retired and semi-retired people. If you love cycling, check out NillumBUG. It is a bicycle user group for the shire.
The Shire of Nillumbik values the arts. Many artists live and work here, inspired by the landscape. The performing arts community is also strong. Nillumbik offers a family-friendly lifestyle. Its close-knit communities and village-style shopping add to its appeal.
So, next time you think of “Bad Earth”, remember Nillumbik. Remember its history, its people, and its beautiful green spaces. It’s a place where nature and community come together.