Taylors Lakes Local History
The Local History of Taylors Lakes, Victoria
Taylors Lakes is a suburb in Victoria, Australia, located approximately 23 kilometers northwest of Melbourne's central business district. It is considered a relatively new suburb with a population of around 17,000 people.
The history of Taylors Lakes dates back to the 19th century when the city of Melbourne was expanding rapidly. The area around Taylors Lakes was originally home to the indigenous Wurundjeri people who were later displaced by European settlers.
In the early 1800s, Edward Taylor, an English settler, received a land grant of 1,000 acres in the area which later became known as Taylor's Creek. The Creek became an important water source for the region, and the surrounding land was used for agriculture, farming, and grazing.
The first modern settlement in the area took place in the late 1970s when the Keilor Council approved the development of several housing estates around the Taylors Lake area. The first estate was called "The Lakes" and was opened in 1977 with 275 homes, and the area was named "Taylors Lakes" after Edward Taylor who originally owned the land.
The first residents of the area were mostly young families and retirees who were attracted by the affordable housing prices, proximity to Melbourne, and the natural surroundings. As the population grew, so did the community's amenities. In 1984, the Taylors Lakes Shopping Centre was opened, providing locals with a wide range of retail stores and services.
In recent years, the suburb has continued to develop with the construction of new homes and the addition of recreational facilities. The 2006 Commonwealth Games played a significant role in the development of the area, with the construction of the Lakeside Stadium. This multi-purpose facility gave the suburb a new sense of identity and became a hub for sporting events and activities.
Although relatively young, Taylors Lakes has a rich history that is embraced by its residents. The area is home to several historical landmarks, including the old railway station and the Quarry Park.
The old railway station was established in the late 1800s and was used to transport goods and people between Melbourne's central business district and the surrounding suburbs. The station was closed in the 1960s, but the building still remains and has been added to the Victorian Heritage Register.
Quarry Park is another historical landmark in the area. It was once a quarry that provided the bluestone used in many of Melbourne's buildings. Today, it is a popular recreational area with walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake. The park is also home to several protected species of wildlife, including the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, which can be seen grazing in the open grasslands.
In conclusion, Taylors Lakes has a rich history that is intertwined with the growth of Melbourne. The area's past is preserved through its historical landmarks, natural surroundings, and community spirit. Despite being a young suburb, Taylors Lakes has a bright future, as evidenced by its continued development and growing population.