Mernda

Mernda's Local History

Mernda is a suburb located in the City of Whittlesea, Victoria, Australia. It is situated 30 kilometers north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District and has a population of over 16,000 people.

Aboriginal History

The Wurundjeri people were the traditional owners and custodians of the land that is now known as Mernda. The area provided them with food, shelter, and a place to gather for ceremonies and cultural activities. They lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, relying on the seasonal availability of food sources such as plants, animals, and fish.

European Settlement

The first known European settlers in the Mernda area were the Porter family who arrived in the 1840s and established a farm. The area remained largely rural and sparsely populated until the late 1800s when the railway line was extended to the area, opening it up for development and settlement.

Mernda's first post office was opened in 1904, followed by a primary school in 1909, and a public hall in 1912. The town grew slowly, with dairy farming being the main industry for many years. In the 1930s, a poultry farm was established, and in the 1940s, the first fruit orchards were planted.

Development and Growth

The 1970s and 1980s saw a significant increase in population as more people moved to Mernda for its semi-rural lifestyle. The opening of the Plenty Valley Shopping Centre in the neighboring suburb of Mill Park in 1984 also provided residents with easy access to shopping, entertainment, and services.

In the early 2000s, the Victorian Government announced plans to expand the Mernda township and create a new urban area named Mernda Villages. The development included new housing estates, schools, parks, and other amenities.

Recent Years

Mernda's population has continued to grow rapidly in recent years, with several new housing estates being built. The Mernda Rail Extension project, which opened in 2018, saw the extension of the South Morang line to the Mernda area, providing residents with a direct train link to Melbourne's CBD.

Today, Mernda is a thriving community with a mix of old and new residents, a variety of housing options, and an array of facilities and services. The area has a strong sense of community, with many community groups and organizations offering a range of activities and events.

History of in Mernda

Mernda's rich history reflects the evolution of Victoria's rural and urban landscapes and the impact of human development on the natural environment. As a growing suburb, it continues to adapt and change, while retaining its unique character and sense of community.