Located in the south-eastern part of Melbourne, the Shire of Cardinia is a local government area in the outskirts of the city, placed between the Yarra Ranges and the Western Port. It has a population of more than 74,000, covering an area of 1280 square kilometres. If you are looking to explore this incredible suburb in entirety, don’t forget to choose bus charter in Melbourne for a convenient ride to some of the top attractions.
About The Shire Of Cardinia
The area that falls under the present-day fringes of Cardinia was once a part of the Berwick and Cranbourne districts, which were incorporated in latter half of the 19th century. The shire of Sherbrooke which was previously The Shire of Fern Tree Gully was divided in 1889, including areas to the east of Melbourne.
In the year 1973, the areas closer to Dandenong and the City of Berwick was divided from Berwick Shire, and was renamed the Shire of Pakenham. As a result of local government reform, the Shire of Cardinia was formed in December, 1994 merging rural sections of Cranbourne City and Sherbrooke Shire with Shire of Pakenham.
Some of the well-known suburbs in the vicinity include Bunyip, Caldermeade, Catani, Cockatoo, Dalmore, Dewhurst, Emerald, Garfield, Iona and Koo Wee Rup. There are some great things to do here, with plenty of attractions on offer.
Lysterfield Park
Providing a range of recreational activities, the Lysterfield Park is a perfect spot for mountain biking with the bike trails and courses offering up to 20 km of riding experience suited for people of any age and ability. If you are going with family, choose easy trails to enjoy around the parkland and lake, while also strolling across the rocky landscapes and established plantations. Inside the park, the Lysterfield Lake is another popular spot for surf skiing, paddle boating, sailing and canoeing. As a part of taking precaution, make sure to take bushfire safety tips, and also check with the authorities regarding favourable weather conditions.
Cardinia Reservoir Park
This is certainly one of the most popular outdoor spots in Melbourne. If you are looking for a day-out in a natural setting, this is an ideal spot, home to abundant flora and fauna with native bush areas, open parklands and picnic spots with barbecue facilities on offer. Popular spots inside the park include Kangaroo flat, Duffy’s and Crystal Brook. Dog are also allowed, however they should be kept on leash to avoid any mishap. You can use gas barbecues here, but avoid anything that uses wood or heat beads, as it is not permitted.
Puffing Billy Steam Railway
Known to be one of the finest steam railways in the world, the Puffing Billy is a century old steam train that runs through fern gullies and beautiful forests of the Dandenong Ranges, covering a mountain track of 25 km from Belgrave to Gembrook. If you want to witness some expansive views, choose to be seated in an open side carriage, where you can even dare to swing your legs out. You can either watch the trains go by from one of the refreshment rooms or board it from any of the stations along the route.
On selected Friday and Saturday evenings, you can travel in luxury class in an enclosed dining carriage, Dine and Dance on Puffing Billy and on the daily Steam and Cuisine Luncheon. Themed night trains include the likes of Jazz of Puffing Billy, Rhythm and Blues on Puffing Billy, Steam and Cuisine After Dark and Murder on the Puffing Billy Express.
Four Brothers Rocks
Located in the southern slopes of the Yarra Ranges, the Bunyip State Park is near the town of Gembrook, and is known for its popular trails. It all starts from the Mortimer Picnic Ground following the Steege Track to the Windy Point Road junction. The track leading to the intersection of Nichols Hut Track is where the fun begins. It’s an uphill hike followed by a steep section, which can be slippery in nature, but good enough to work your calves. Further, the track flattens down to Burgess Road making way for the Four Brothers Lookout. This beautiful place has a large collection of granite rocks from where you can view different parts of the park.
Being a part of Bunyip state park, the local aboriginal people believe that Buneep is a kind of spirit that punishes bad people. Check the conditions before visiting this place and be bushfire ready by taking safety tips.
Emerald Museum
Set in a historic town of Emerald, the museum is a local archive of the colorful past displayed through documents, photographs and memorabilia dating from early indigenous occupation to the present day. It has a sorted collection of documentary records, including modern records and histories relevant to the society and economy, 600 memorabilia and 2000 photographs. Displays include township development, farming, the Timber industry, early settlement, the renowned Nobelius nursery, gold discovery and aboriginal artefacts.
An assortment of catalogues, stock books and original ledgers of the popular Nobelius Nursery offers a link to the park, which is significant to the landscape historians.
Nobelius Heritage Park
A Swedish immigrant Carl Axel Nobelius started the Nobelius Heritage site in 1886 spread across an area of 4 and a half hectare in the famous Nursery. The nursery had a significant influence on Australian landscape through supply of exotic trees throughout the nation. It was once the largest exporter of ornamental and fruit trees in the southern hemisphere. The park is preserved as a historic place with many specimens stocked still today. Under the authority of Cardinia Shire Council, the park is managed by a volunteer committee.
If you are travelling in a group to any of these destinations, it is recommended to book Melbourne bus charter for a comfortable group ride, without having to worry about navigating your way through the shire. The best part here is that everyone in your group travels together for an economical price!