Friday, 15 April 2011

My Mont Albert


Hi, I am Liana and welcome to my blog. I hope to focus on my area, a little place that I call home. On the eastern side on Melbourne along the train line, where cobblestones line the roadside borders of almost every street and beautiful old trees tower up and cascade into the canopy creating archways of colours, textures and patterns is a small suburb called Mont Albert.

‘Monty’ as it is sometimes locally referred to, is nestled between Surrey Hills and Box Hill. In days gone by the somewhat elevated theme ran throughout these neighbouring suburb titles. Originally called Mount Albert until the development of the new train station was unveiled where the sign was spelt incorrectly. Rather then changing the signs, it was agreed that the suburb should be adapted to the signage of the railway. So Mont Albert it was and Mont Albert it has remained for over 100 years.  

Winding through the sweeping avenues up hills and down around corners, Mont Albert shares its charm (and post code for that matter) with Surrey Hills. Deciduous trees create picturesque frames lining the grass verges. In autumn a tremendous array of canopy foliage erupt with natures finest colours.

The hub of this quaint little suburb is Hamilton Street. This is the site of Monty’s very first shopping centre. An assortment of shops including the local newsagent, greengrocer, butcher and cafes are situated along this small stretch of road. A very popular place amongst Monty residents.


I guess the main thing I love about Mont Albert is that it is home. It is a nice place to be. Neighbours still chat over the fences and kids play cricket in the street. It is a place where people take pride in their space, where their gardens matters as much as their houses. Garden folklore sweeps across the suburb where passer-bys will ask a lady in her front garden how she gets her roses so stunning.

This is my Mont Albert.