Melbourne's South East - Urban Life Insert Jan 2017

LOCATION • LIFESTYLE • COMMUNITY

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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S DIVERSE culturally as its geographic spread, Melbourne’s south-eastern region is fast becoming the destination to call home.

And for good reason – the rural ambience created by its natural beauty of creeks, ridgelines and Dandenong Ranges views is complemented by its proximity to the coast and the chilled environs of Mills Beach or Mt Martha Beach at Mornington.

And foodies flock to Dandenong for whatever culinary slice of the world takes their fancy.

Better still, much of the infrastructure is already established in nearby areas, with education, health and shopping centres providing greater incentive for would-be residents to make the move.

Rail and road links also keep the region connected to the

rest of Melbourne, including the central business district, to keep the wheels of industry turning.

Data released last year by the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed Cranbourne East was the largest-growing suburb and second fastest-expanding suburb, with 88 people moving in each week. Young families and migrants are increasingly being lured by its affordability and block sizes, and it’s a pattern that is being repeated across the region.

The municipalities most recognised within the south-east region are Bayside, Cardinia, Casey, Frankston Glen Eira, Greater Dandenong, Kingston and Mornington Peninsula.

The City of Casey is the epicentre of activity for new housing estates, with Clyde and Berwick expanding each day. Likewise, Cardinia encapsulates suburbs and townships including

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Pakenham, Officer, Cockatoo and Koo Wee Rup, and Greater Dandenong includes Keysborough and Lyndhurst.

Central Dandenong is viewed as the CBD of the south east, but the blueprint for the region is already taking shape.

Dandenong South has been named as a national employment cluster, while job prospects will be enhanced by future initiatives such as creation of town centres in the new estates, the Cranbourne-Pakenham Rail Corridor Project and a possible south-east airport.

Plan Melbourne identified Dandenong, Fountain Gate/ Narre Warren and Frankston as metropolitan activity centres, with 205,000 dwellings to be constructed by 2031. This is split between 95,000 detached dwellings and up to 115,000 others (up to 25,000 apartments and 95,000 townhouses, flats and units).

More than half of these dwellings would be built in growth areas.

The Victorian Planning Authority vision is clear: “Development of the South-East Growth Corridor will continue to enhance the region’s self-sufficiency, sustainability and distinctiveness by providing a good range of new employment opportunities, which are well connected by appropriate transport links between homes and new and existing jobs. New job opportunities will be provided at Pakenham, Thompsons Rd and South Gippsland Hwy, as well as in the existing and identified town centres and within new residential communities.

Dandenong and the south-eastern suburbs will also continue to be a major focus for employment, services and facilities provision in the region. The existing sense of place will be enhanced through the design of precincts enabling residents to enjoy access to a network of waterways, biodiversity corridors and open spaces, as well as providing ready access to vibrant town centres, local services and job opportunities. Opportunities to integrate the waterways, the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, local hills and views to more distant hills, including the Dandenong Ranges, will be maximised.”

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Image:CRANBOURNE TURF CLUB

Image: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA Picture: JANUSZ MOLINSKI

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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ICTURESQUE coastline and aquatic pursuits are a short drive away, but the south-east provides its residents with a sporting chance that is the envy of others.

Despite the fact there are no grand stadia such as the MCG or AAMI Park yet, the southeast has several renowned sports events and venues for community use.

Perhaps best known internationally are the many championship-standard golf courses in Melbourne’s sand belt that often host Australasian Tour events, such as the Australian Masters or Australian PGA Championship.

Casey Fields is the training venue for Melbourne FC, one of the world’s oldest sporting clubs, and the 70ha complex also houses netball and tennis courts, a HPV cycling track, rugby fields, regional athletics centre, golf practice cage, walking paths and four football/cricket ovals.

Fans of the Sport of Kings have Pakenham and Sandown racetracks to bring the thoroughbred action to life.

For those who prefer their action supercharged, many opt for Sandown Raceway at Springvale. One of very few permanent race circuits close to the heart of a city, Sandown has been synonymous with motorsport since the early 1960s. Nowadays, it is restricted to

five major motorsport events each year, which include the Sandown 500 endurance event and the Heritage Round of the Supercars Championship in November.

You too can emulate the feats of driving greats, such as Peter Brock and Mark Skaife, and enjoy a hot lap driving or enjoying a ride in a purpose-built V8 around the circuit. The adrenalin-pumping V8RACE experience will appeal like little else. Details at v8race.com.

For a more passive experience, the annual Portsea Swim Classic and many sailing championships for all kinds of boat classes are frequent during the summer months.

Blessed with first-class facilities such as the Cranbourne Indoor Sports Centre and Casey Indoor Leisure Centre, this region can host all kinds of sporting passions.

The stadium mightn’t be far away, too. A consortium of the area’s biggest soccer clubs including Dandenong City, Berwick City, Casey Comets, Springvale White Eagles, Dandenong Thunder and South Springvale - have made a case to be considered for an A-League licence for season 2017-18. It identified Dandenong Showgrounds and Casey Fields as potential venues.

EVENTS Jeep Portsea Polo Jan 14 Point Nepean National Park

24th International Island Classic Jan 27-29 Back Beach Rd, Cowes

Two Bays Trail Run

Miss Muddy Mar 25 Sandown Racecourse

Jan 15 Dromana to Cape Schanck

Balnarring Picnic Race Club Jan 15 54 Coolart Rd, Balnarring Australian Chainsaw Carving Championship Jan 17-22 SkyHigh Mt Dandenong

Melbourne Portsea Swim Classic Jan 21 Point Nepean National Park Memory Walk and Jog Jan 22 Point Nepean National Park

- TIFFANY COPELAND

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MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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ELBOURNE’S reputation as a foodie capital spreads much farther than the confines of its inner-city boundaries.

Having long been heralded as a multicultural foodie haven, Dandenong has gained a reputation in recent times as the place to be for authentic food experiences.

With a resident population that hails from more than 150 countries, Dandenong is firmly known as the best place to get a fix of Afghan kebabs, Iranian desserts, Indian naan, Polish sausages and Lebanese bread.

The diverse population has catapulted the suburb into a veritable treasure trove of food, boasting its own Little India and Afghan Bazaar precincts, along with cafes and restaurants serving food from Ethiopia, West Africa, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Turkey, Poland, the Balkans and Mauritius. About an hour from the CBD, Dandenong’s culinary melting pot has attracted many a foodie for its delightful dining experiences, from the fresh produce at the nearby Dandenong Market, to the array of restaurants and cafes that line the main boulevard.

Bakeries alone make up a sizeable chunk of the delicious fare on offer and Middle Eastern heavyweight A1 Bakery takes first dibs in the baked-goods stakes.

Serving traditional Lebanese food, A1 offers a range of pizzas, dips, sweets and a large range of grocery products from all over the Middle East. Another main player is Maiwand Bakery, the first Afghani bakery

in Melbourne, selling about 1000 flatbreads each day, straight out of the traditional clay oven.

Polish delis are aplenty in this suburb so if you’re after a fix of pierogi (dumplings), cabbage rolls, sauerkraut, beetroot soup or sausages, Dandenong has got you covered. Central Asia’s Uighur cuisine also takes centre stage with shish kebabs, polo (pilaf rice platters), hearty dumplings and hand-made noodles.

Dandenong is celebrated for its South Asian cuisine, and local favourite MKS Spices ’n Things needs no introduction. Serving up a smorgasbord of mouthwatering rice and curry dishes at bargain prices, it’s no wonder there’s a line snaking out the door on most days. Lakshmi Vilas, a vegetarian cafe serving mostly southern Indian food for those masala dosa cravings, is another popular option, while Bikaner Sweet & Curry Cafe provides the sweet relief you’ll need after all that spice.

Afghan cuisine also features prominently in Dandenong’s culinary stakes with a selection of chicken and lamb skewers, kebab and rice dishes, and excellent mantu dumplings (stuffed with minced lamb and served with lentils and yoghurt) at local institution Afghan Tasty Food.

There’s something for every tastebud, so bring your appetite (and sweatpants)!

- MANVEEN MAAN

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MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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CRANBOURNE TURF CLUB NIGHT RACING

Image: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA. Picture: JANUSZ MOLINSKI

GUMBUYA PARK

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MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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EARNING is just one component of what makes a great community, and south-east residents are fortunate in being spoiled for choice.

From select-entry schools, Chisholm Institute at Berwick, Dandenong, Cranbourne and Frankston, and university courses at Monash University campuses at Berwick and Frankston, there are many options for those pursuing academic excellence.

But some of the greatest gains are being made in community centres and neighbourhood houses.

Courses and group sessions are available in almost every practical topic. Just consider some - Men’s discussions group, walking, tablet training, knitting, card games, business mentoring, gardening, bingo, choirs, book clubs, fitness, art, gardening and contributing to the community cafe are available within the City of Casey alone.

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MELBOURNE’S EAST COMMUNITY SOUTH EVENTS Saturday & Sunday, Jan 14-15 The Waterfront Festival 11am-10pm Free activities, live music, rides and amusements. Fireworks at 9.45pm on Saturday.

Frankston Waterfront Thursday, Jan 19 (ongoing) Funky Bunch Trivia From 7pm-9.30pm at Settlement Hotel, South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne. For those aged 18-plus Friday, Jan 20 (until March) Cameo Outdoor Cinema 1628 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave.

Get in early for one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. Only 150 tickets each night. Details: cameocinemas. com.au Sunday, Jan 22 Summer Series at Bulong Estate Live music and fine food and wine at the winery, 70 Summerhill Rd, Yarra Junction, from noon-5pm Thursday, Jan 26 Australia Day Various celebrations Berwick, 10am-3pm Pioneers Park, Cnr Peel St and Lyall Rd Cranbourne, 11am-4pm Balla Balla Community Centre, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd

February/March Ventana Fiesta This annual celebration of Latin American, Portuguese and Spanish cultures provides intimate and authentic experiences through dance, music, food, art, crafts, film, poetry, language, sports and educational workshops. It will be held at various venues in Frankston and Carrum Downs Dandenong Market One of Victoria’s oldest markets has something for everyone. Open Tues 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-4pm, Sun 10am-3pm at cnr Clow St & Cleeland St

Saturday, Feb 12 (ongoing) Berwick Springs Parkrun Every Saturday at 8am, the free weekly, timed 5km run takes place in Berwick Springs Blvd, Narre Warren. Each participant in the volunteer-run event must register (one-off registration) before running. More details at parkrun.com.au/berwicksprings Monday, Feb 14 Cycling for fun and fitness Lynbrook, 9am-11am Casual riding on cycle paths a safe distance from the roadside. Meet at Lynbrook Community Centre, Cnr Lynbrook Blvd & Harris St

Sunday, Feb 5 Kymmy’s Family Market 9am-2pm Cranbourne Public Hall, 166-178 South Gippsland Hwy Monthly market, mostly indoors, that supports local home-based businesses, such as crafts, candles, baby items, clothes and food

Friday, Feb 24 (ongoing) DJ’s Night Market On the fourth Friday of each month, it has stalls to shop from, including fresh produce, jewellery, candles, children’s clothes, skincare, face painting and kids craft workshop.

Entry by gold coin donation at Lynbrook Community Centre, Cnr Lynbrook Blvd & Harris St

Wednesday, Feb 8 (ongoing) Netball Star Academy Players of the future can finetune their skills at Berwick Lodge Primary School, Mansfield St, Berwick.

Contact: 1300 372 300

Sunday, Feb 26 (ongoing) Gembrook Market On the fourth Sunday of each month, it has a wide range of mostly locally grown and made crafts and produce. Held at Puffing Billy Station, 60 Main St, Gembrook

Open Mic (ongoing) Pony Music Studios Open to all musicians and bands, Open Mic allows them time to have a play (three songs or 20 minutes per act) with a full PA system and backline supplied, with an audio engineer. From 2pm-5pm on the last Sunday of the month at Factory 3, 37-41 Hallam South Rd, Hallam.

Bookings: 9702 3244 Fri-Sun, March 3-5 Seven Sisters Festival 60 Hearn Rd, Mt Martha Allow yourself the time to be yourself and be surrounded by inspiring women and nature.

There are expert presenters, indepth discussions performances, practical life-changing classes, art projects, and more than 100 alternative and complementary health practictioners Saturday, March 25 Casey Kids Carnival, 11am-4pm Akoonah Park, Cardinia St, Berwick A free day of activities for kids, the event will include live performers, rides, interactive games, arts and crafts, and live animals

(Listings courtesy of aroundyou. com.au, eventfinda.com.au, weekendnotes.com)

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MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST

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ROPERTY values in Melbourne’s south-east region have experienced some dramatic increases since 2014 – and there’s no sign of that trend abating.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria figures show that despite a six per cent drop, Narre Warren North ($870,000) still holds the lead as the most expensive suburb in the region. Endeavour Hills ($590,000), Berwick ($576,250), Narre Warren South ($525,500), and Narre Warren ($507,500) round out the top five.

Endeavour Hills has soared over the past year with the most dramatic increase of 27.4 per cent.

At the other end of the scale, Cranbourne ($380,000), Hampton Park ($385,750) and Cranbourne West ($390,000) were among the most affordable suburbs.

As for areas with the largest increases in value since 2014, Doveton (30.9 per cent), Cranbourne North (26.4 per cent), Hallam (22 per cent) and Cranbourne West (21.9 per cent) ranked among the top-10 increases. Endeavour Hills (40.6 per cent) and Narre Warren (33.6 per cent) topped the list.

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REIV chief executive Geoff White expects the number of affordable options to decrease as an increasing number of first-home buyers and investors flock to the outer ring.

White said record low interest rates and a strong market were driving price growth, with four of the top-10 affordable suburbs delivering double-digit growth over the past year.

According to White, the latest quarterly figures indicate strength and potential in the Victorian market.

“Recent national data from the Real Estate Institute of Australia shows that most states, apart from Melbourne and Adelaide, have experienced moderating home prices in the opening months of 2016.”

However, White also states price growth is slower than at the market peak in late 2014 and early 2015.

“Just over a year ago we were seeing quarterly price growth just above five per cent. While growth is now below four per cent, it is still solid, given market conditions,” White said.

- TIFFANY COPELAND

Suburb

Median 2016

1 Year Growth

2 Year Growth

Median 2015

Median 2014

CRANBOURNE

$380,000

9.8%

17.4%

$346,000

$323,750

CRANBOURNE EAST

$470,000*

13.4%

17.5%

$414,500

$400,000*

CRANBOURNE NORTH

$455,000

15.2%

26.4%

$395,000

$360,000

CRANBOURNE WEST

$390,000*

13.0%

21.9%

$345,202

$320,000*

-

N/A

N/A

-

-

CLYDE NORTH

$468,500*

6.5%

N/A

$439,900*

-

OFFICER

CLYDE

$460,000*

20.4%

N/A

$382,000*

-

OFFICER SOUTH

-

N/A

N/A

-

-

NARRE WARREN

$507,500*

6.8%

33.6%

$475,000

$380,000

NARRE WARREN NORTH

$870,000*

-6.8%

1.5%

$933,750*

$857,500*

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

$525,500

10.1%

11.2%

$477,500

$472,500

NARRE WARREN SOUTH

-

N/A

N/A

$530,000*

$528,750*

BEACONSFIELD UPPER

-

N/A

N/A

$1,350,000*

-

BERWICK

$576,250

4.8%

10.8%

$550,000

$520,000

DOVETON

$401,000*

15.2%

30.9%

$348,000*

$306,250*

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

$590,000*

27.4%

40.6%

$463,000

$419,500

HALLAM

$463,500*

17.3%

22.0%

$395,000*

$380,000*

$385,750

4.3%

12.4%

$370,000

$343,250*

HAMPTON PARK

(Source: REIV)

MELBOURNE’S SOUTH EAST GUMBUYA PARK SELLS FOR $4.65M THE founders of Carsales.com. and Jayco Caravans have joined forces to secure popular amusement park Gumbuya Park, near Pakenham, for $4.65 million.

The investor consortium, comprising Gerry Ryan of Jayco Caravans and Wal Pisciotta of Carsales.com.au, acquired the south-east Melbourne park, which has been operating since 1978.

“A change of hands of this iconic park will ensure it remains one of Melbourne's most popular, small-scale amusement parks, frequented by both local residents and interstate visitors.”

The new owners plan to undertake a major revamp of the venue.

Gumbuya Park is on the Princes Highway, just outside of Tynong and about 66km from the Melbourne CBD.

The park features more than 300 animals, with numerous species of wildlife including dingoes, cockatoos, wombats, koalas, emus and various native Australian birds.

Comprising a 166.26ha landholding, Gumbuya Park also features several rides and attractions including paddle boats, mini cars, waterslides, pony rides, a mini golf course and toboggans.

CBRE's David Minty, Stephen Adgemis, Duncan McCulloch and James Beer managed the sale on behalf of the vendor.

Minty said the incoming owners planned to inject new life into the much-loved park, which is just outside Pakenham.

“The buyers will look to introduce new attractions and some accommodation, helping bring the park back to its former glory,” Minty said.

URBAN LIFE MAGAZINE // 15

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