Toorak

Local History of Toorak, Victoria, Australia

Toorak is a suburb located in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is considered one of the most prestigious and affluent suburbs in the city. Toorak has a rich history that dates back to the early settlement of Melbourne and the establishment of the colony of Victoria.

Early Settlement

The land that is now Toorak was originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri people, who were the traditional custodians of the area. In 1835, John Batman, a European settler, claimed the area as part of the Port Phillip District. Soon after, in 1837, the first European settlers arrived in the area and began to develop the land.

Toorak was named after Toorak House, which was built in 1849 by James Jackson, a Scottish squatter. The name is believed to have come from an Aboriginal word meaning "swampy or reedy place". The house is still standing today and is a prominent landmark in the suburb.

Growth and Development

In the mid to late 1800s, Toorak began to develop into a residential area for wealthy Melbourne residents. The suburb was known for its large mansions, expansive gardens, and tree-lined streets. Many of the homes were designed by prominent architects, including William Wardell and Charles D'Ebro.

Toorak became a municipality in 1861 and continued to grow and develop throughout the next century. During the 1900s, many of the large mansions were subdivided into smaller blocks, and apartment buildings and townhouses were built. However, Toorak has managed to retain its reputation as a prestigious and affluent suburb.

Notable Residents

Toorak has been home to many notable residents throughout its history. One of the most famous was Dame Nellie Melba, an Australian operatic soprano. Melba lived at Coombe Cottage in Toorak from 1909 until her death in 1931. The cottage is now a museum that is open to the public.

Other notable residents have included former Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and billionaire businessman Lindsay Fox.

Modern Toorak

Today, Toorak is a thriving suburb that is home to a mix of residential and commercial properties. While many of the large mansions from the early days have been replaced by smaller blocks and apartments, there are still many grand homes and gardens to be seen in the area. Toorak Village is a popular shopping and dining destination, with a range of upscale boutiques and restaurants.

Toorak remains one of the most desirable suburbs in Melbourne, with a mix of historical significance and modern luxury.