Waldau Village Historic Walk (Doncaster East)
This is an easy 4.5 km walk that moves from Ruffey Lake Park to sites of surrounding urban heritage. Points of interest focus on the influence of German settlers who became orchard growers and created the Waldau Village legacy.
Four German Lutheran families arrived here in the 1850s and saw great potential for a spiritual community and a good life. They cleared the land and planted a network of orchards. As far as the eye could see there were pears, apples, cherries, peaches and lemons, all ripening for the prosperous Melbourne market. They called their home 'Waldau', a German word for 'a clearing in the forest' Their families grew and the close knit community thrived for more than 100 years. As you walk in their footsteps, you will see reminders of their heritage, learn stories of their lives and feel the strength of their spirit.
Start and finish at the carpark at Ruffey Lake Park on Victoria Street, Doncaster East.
Facilities include barbecue, playground, toilets, museum, parking and drinking fountain.
Location
Cnr Victoria Street and Muriel Green Drive, Doncaster East 3109 Map
Web Links
→ Waldau Village Historic Walk Guide and Map (PDF)
