Boronia street heritage
Boronia street heritage
A second heritage street walk, this time around the centre of Boronia as seen through photos from the past (Photos: Knox Historical Society)
Summary
A second heritage street walk, this time around the centre of Boronia as seen through photos from the past (Photos: Knox Historical Society)
Description
As a township or suburb, Boronia is barely one hundred years old. But in that time, many formerly familiar locations have vanished without trace. Some are better in the past, notably the former rail crossing, eviscerated in 1998. Even in the present day, Boronia as a retail centre still has issues. Apochryphal story: Knox Council flew in an architectural consultant from the United States. Q: How do we improve Boronia shopping centre? A: A tactical nuclear weapon
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Points of Interest
1. Boronia/Dorset Rd intersection
An apparent slip by 1888 surveyors resulted in Melbourne's worst intersection before the rail line went underground. Major collisions on the crossing took place in 1926 and 1952, each claiming 9 lives
2. Turner Road
Torrens Ave was previously Turner Rd north and south of Boronia Rd. The 1920s post office was on the south side, the 1970s post office on the north corner
3. Boronia station square
The retail complex on the east side was built in the early 1970s, Boronia Mall in the early 1980s. The car park was re-modeled in the early 2000s. Some retailers have done better than others
4. Dorset Road
In earlier days Ringwood Rd, Dorset Rd has been busy for many years, though the shops have changed much. The site of Maguire's garage, long a local landmark, is now the Commonwealth Bank
5. Boronia rail station
Boronia station was opened in 1920. The first station was burned down in 1971, and was replaced in 1982, burned again, a third station in 1988, and today's sub-surface station is actually Mk IV
6. Erica Ave
Erica Ave became a retail area in the 1960s. It was home for many years to Boronia fire station. The fire brigade practiced in Maguire Park, where pranksters put detergent in the fountain
7. Boronia Progess Hall
The progress hall opened in 1926, hosting local dances for many years, and rallies in World War II. Damaged by fire in the 1990s, the hall was repaired, and still hosts community events today
Features
Public Transport
Drinking water available
Seating available
Public toilets
Pram friendly
Historical interest
