Hurstbridge is a small, quaint township with a population of  approximately 3500  people, located just 30km to the North East of Melbourne, at the junction of the Diamond and Arthurs Creeks. Fergusons Paddock runs alongside the Diamond Creek and is an open space public reserve with ponds, wetlands, paths and picnic facilities. The Wurundjeri people were the traditional owners of the land before white settlement. The township was named after the Hurst family who built the first log bridge across the Diamond Creek slightly upstream from where the present Monash bridge now stands. A minor gold rush in 1908, to the north-west of the township, saw many people come to the area, the rail line to Hurstbridge was opened in 1912 to take fruit grown in the region to Melbourne markets. The rail line resulted in the immediate establishment of a township and a post office, and the original Wattle Café which still operates today. The town’s revival was sparked by the town's electrification in 1957 and the arrival of many city-folk seeking a rural lifestyle close to the city. The coming of the railway changed many things and gradually produced a change in the population and the work patterns and opportunities for the residents. It was then possible (as it is today) to reside in the pleasant bushland setting of Hurstbridge and work in the city. Several of the older buildings, shops and houses along the main road are good examples of the architectural styles of that time. Hurstbridge is popular with visitors of all ages, and people interested in antiques, bric-a-brac and great cafés. Hurstbridge is the perfect place to live, work and play in Melbourne’s north east. Come and enjoy Hurstbridge, our shops, open space, heritage, art and wine. Hurstbridge is easily accessed by car and rail. Click here for a map of the Hurstbridge Line rail system Click here to view a listing of all the shops in Hurstbridge Village. Click here (to be supplied as a pdf) for a map of the Hurstbridge heritage trail. For more on Hurstbridge history visit www.hurstbridgeheritagetrail.websyte.com.au