Wheelers Hill

Local History of Wheelers Hill, Victoria

Located in the southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, Wheelers Hill is a picturesque suburb with a rich local history. The area was originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, who were part of the Kulin nation.

The first European settlers arrived in Wheelers Hill in the mid-1800s. The suburb is named after John Wheeler, a wealthy landowner who owned a large estate in the area. The Wheeler family played an important role in the development of the suburb and remained prominent landowners in the area for many years.

During the early 1900s, the suburb was primarily a farming community, with many fruit orchards and market gardens. This changed in the post-World War II years, as Melbourne experienced a population boom and suburbs like Wheelers Hill were developed for residential use.

The suburb experienced rapid growth in the 1960s and 1970s, as new housing estates were built to accommodate the influx of residents. Many of the suburban homes built during this period exhibit the distinctive characteristics of mid-century modern architecture, with their flat roofs, large windows, and open floor plans.

One of the most notable landmarks in the area is Jells Park, a 127-hectare park that features a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking and cycling paths. The park was gifted to the people of Victoria by the Jell family, who owned the land in the 1800s. It remains a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

The Wheelers Hill Hotel, located on the corner of Jells Road and Ferntree Gully Road, has been a local institution since 1969. The hotel has undergone several renovations over the years but remains a popular spot for drinks, meals, and live music.

The suburb is also home to several schools, including Wheelers Hill Primary School, Wheelers Hill Secondary College, and Caulfield Grammar School's Wheelers Hill Campus. These schools have played an important role in the community, with many former students going on to achieve great success in a variety of fields.

Today, Wheelers Hill is a thriving suburb that retains its strong sense of community and connection to its local history. Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor to the area, there's always something new to discover in this unique corner of Melbourne.