Alphington

Alphington is a suburb situated in the inner north-eastern region of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The name Alphington is derived from the Old English word “eorphin tun,” which means “estate of the descendants of Eorpe.” The area that is now known as Alphington was originally inhabited by the Wurundjeri Indigenous people. European settlement began in the mid-1800s when the land was purchased by a wealthy businessman named John Green. During the 1860s, Green established a farm on the land and built a grand mansion called Alphington House. The mansion was designed by renowned architect William Wardell who also designed many other notable buildings in Melbourne such as St Patrick's Cathedral. After Green's death, the property was subdivided and sold off to a number of different buyers. The mansion was converted into a hotel before being destroyed by a fire in 1929. All that remains of the mansion today is a small section of the stables. In the early 1900s, Alphington became a sought-after residential area. Many grand homes were built along Heidelberg Road, and the suburb became known for its tree-lined streets and picturesque vistas of the Yarra River. The suburb also played a role in Australia's military history, serving as a military hospital during World War I. The hospital was located at the former Alphington Grammar School, which had been closed due to financial difficulties. After the war, the school was re-opened and continued to operate until 1977. In the 1960s and 1970s, Alphington went through a period of rapid development as high-rise apartment buildings were constructed along Heidelberg Road and Station Street. This caused some controversy at the time, as many residents were concerned about the impact on the suburb's character and liveability. Today, Alphington is a vibrant suburb with a diverse population. The area has undergone significant gentrification in recent years, with many young professionals choosing to make Alphington their home. The suburb is also home to a number of parks and reserves, including Alphington Park and Darebin Parklands, which offer residents a range of opportunities for outdoor recreation. In addition to its parkland and residential areas, Alphington is also home to a number of businesses and amenities. The suburb's main shopping strip is located along Heidelberg Road, and there are a number of cafes, restaurants and other retail outlets in the area. The suburb is also well-served by public transport, with a number of bus and train routes passing through the area. Overall, Alphington has a rich and varied history that reflects the changing fortunes of Melbourne as a whole. From its origins as a rural estate to its current status as a thriving urban community, Alphington has seen many changes over the years, but it remains a beloved and sought-after suburb for residents and visitors alike.