Doncaster Highlights
- Fabulous shopping precincts
- Highly sought educational facilities
- An extensive mix of housing options
- A panoramic landscape
- A huge range of parks, reserves, walking tracks
In the 1880’s, an 86-metre-high observation tower was built on Doncaster Hill. This became a popular destination for day-trippers who wanted to visit what was then considered the countryside. Moving many years forward, Doncaster is still a destination suburb, but more notably these days for those in search of a day’s shopping, dining or entertainment.
Westfield Doncaster, formally known as Doncaster Shoppingtown, is one of the most popular shopping centres in the state, and since a major redevelopment was completed in 2008, it is one of the largest. The upgrade saw the number of shops almost double, from 202 to 400, and the Village Twin Cinemas grow from 2 to a complex of 9.
Housing
Doncaster and East Doncaster offer a diverse range of housing styles with the majority being built between 1960’s-1990. Some of the best examples of the first speculation built houses in Melbourne can be found here, as can a number of early modern and L-shape styles. As the population of the area grows older, and younger families move here to continue the circle of life, a change has been seen in the housing landscape. Some of the original dwellings are now being replaced by townhouses/units, especially as land prices continue to rise. Low/medium density apartment projects are also on the rise and are quite the urban trend; the proximity to the CBD and the amenity-rich location is a drawcard to both young professionals and to downsizers who are looking for low maintenance housing options.
Transport
There is an extensive bus network that runs throughout the area and its surrounds, with dedicated services running straight to the CBD and other popular destinations. For those who prefer to travel by train or tram, Box Hill which has a major transport hub is only a short drive or bus ride away. In 1997 the Eastern Freeway was extended from Doncaster Road, where it used to finish, through to Springvale Road. In 2008, Eastlink opened, allowing a continuous commute from the CBD, all the way to the most southern points of the state. These improvements were well received by residents, as the amount of through traffic decreased dramatically as did pollution. It also saw a rise in accessibility to places like the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula.
Amenities
Families are drawn to Doncaster and East Doncaster because of the wide range of desirable amenities. Both Doncaster Secondary College and East Doncaster Secondary College are highly sought, and tightly zoned, with premium prices being paid to secure homes that ensure entry. There are also a wide range of public and Catholic primary schools, kindergartens and child care facilities in close proximity. As well as Westfield Doncaster, there are a host of local shopping precincts including Tunstall Square, Devon Plaza, Jacksons Court and Stockland’s The Pines.
There are a variety of sporting clubs in the area and a host of open green spaces and reserves that pepper the landscape. The Koonung Creek trail is along the southern border of the area and provides a scenic place for walking and bike riding on designated tracks. To the north, Ruffey Lake Park is well utilised by families wanting to enjoy the 3 children’s playgrounds or those who want to catch up with family and friends for a picnic or BBQ in picturesque surrounds. It is also a popular destination for individuals who want to engage in casual or organised group activities in the outdoors.
Doncaster and East Doncaster are suburbs that cater for those of all ages; rolling hills and valleys enhance the panorama of the surroundings, as does the beauty the Dandenong Ranges to the East, and the bright lights of the city skyline to the West. This is a place you’ll be proud to call home; come and see what your future could look like.
Median Prices – Mar Qtr 2023
