Kilsyth, at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges

A lovely article by a Grey Nomad and her Granddaughter.

Kilsyth, Oops, nearly missed it. You will if you blink.
Kilsyth is a small but fascinating place.

Kilsyth is typical of the suburbs that make up the Outer Eastern region of Melbourne, you normally pass through it on your way to somewhere else. Kilsyth is 34 Kms from the heart of Melbourne and settled at the base of the beautiful Dandenongs, these are better known to the locals as “The Blue Hills.”

Towering over Kilsyth are the Television Towers situated on the top of Mount Dandenong. These can be seen for miles around and act as a magnet to an area for Adventures filled with Fun and enjoyment for the Family or just for 1 person.

I have only lived in the area with my Granddaughter (Ruby) for a short while and during that time we have managed to find some precious little Diamonds.

I made a promise to her when we moved here, that we would venture out on some amazing adventures. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there were some gems right here in our very own backyard.

These little adventures turned out to be so much fun, enjoyable and very affordable. A couple I enjoy on a regular basis with me, myself and I.

Situated in the Kiloran Reserve, Hawthory Rd, Mooroolbark Melways map ref’ 51F2.

Mooroolbark Miniature Railway Wow! what an amazing place this is. Opened to the Public in 1983, this great Family Picnic area is run by a group of the most enthusiastic collectors you could ever meet. Steam Train collectors are passionate about their little beauties and the public is able to see for themselves just why.

On the 4th Sunday of every month (except December) the park is open to the public. The rides are very reasonably priced, $1.50 the last time we went and all the proceeds go into the upgrading and maintenance of the park and the engines. Make sure to wear closed in shoes though, it’s an Insurance thing. The coin in the slot BBQ’s and picnic facilities are great. All this makes for an Adventurous, fun, enjoyable, educational and Affordable Family day.

We rode the little beauties round and around making stories up as we went. We were attacked by Indians and Bushrangers, travelled to the ends of the earth and so much more.

Beside the Miniature Railway track stands this massive white Dome…..

Situated at 75 Hawthory Rd, Kilsyth Melways map ref’51F3

We have had so much fun playing in all the pools and the great thing is that we are able to do so in all weather and at all times of the year. The huge canvas dome covers the 50 metre lap pool, the teaching pool, warm water leisure pool, toddler pool and indoor spa.

There is also an outside pool for kids and grown ups, not too deep, which is great for me as I don’t know how to swim. This is only open at certain times so a phone call prior to arriving is a good idea, 03 9725 9411….still,doesn’t really matter as there is so much fun to be had under the dome.

The really, really little ones have their very own paddling playground outside and the whole lot is set in well treed and shaded surrounds.

Prices are really affordable and there is a little kiosk if you have not packed a picnic. Kilsyth Centenary Pool ….. Check out the website

Situated on Durham road Melways map ref’ 51H5

The little one and I sometimes pack together a few sausages, some fresh bread rolls and a cool drink and head off just up the road and around the corner to a local park area.

The last time we went there, we were greeted by a huge Pelican that had decided to join the ducks on the little pond. We somehow manage to attract lots of the bird life when we BBQ. Could be the seasoning I use?

The park is great for walking and bike riding for the young and old. The tracks are sealed and they surround the pond and waterways…..water restrictions have limited the beauty of the waterways but you get the idea…..and others meander throughout the pretty surrounds under tall majestic gum trees.

Parking is easy. There are rest stations, coin in the slot BBQ area (got to love them), small but fun playground, amphitheatre and plenty of picnic tables.

My granddaughter rides her bike while I do my “Walking thing” and this little place is great to unwind.

On the outskirts of the park is the Bridge Community Garden Centre, sister to the well known and respected Montrose Japara Neighbourhood House. During the week there are lots of activities being held here and they are always happy to meet visitors to the area.

Situated on Colchester Rd, Kilsyth Melways map ref’ 51E7

They boast “The Best” BMX tracks to race on……Google maps for the map of the tracks. Check them out for yourself, or better still let The kids tell you what they think. There is a monthly race meeting on the 4th Saturday of the month and there is practice held on every Saturday if the weather will allow.

We found the track one morning coming back from replacing a fish that had died overnight. Lucky for the fish that it wasn’t a hot day as we hung around watching these kids doing the most amazing things. There is also a Canteen offering refreshments (useless to fish)

For the BMX enthusiast this is a great day out and as usual the members always make you feel at home.

So what can I say…..Simple, affordable fun, full of adventure and enjoyment and all at the foothills of “The Blue Hills” in one little suburb.

Kilsyth… watch out though you just might miss it as you pass through on your way to somewhere else.

Freecall (in OZ): 1800 24 68 69 or International: +61 7 3634 9000

I have found the greatest way to have the most "Wickedest" fun imaginable. To be able to jump into a little home and travel around this magnificient state of Victoria makes me almost jump out of my skin. The Weekend Grey Nomad and her Apprentice out there doing what comes naturally.

Ruby and I are going to do this at every opportunity. Go find places that are weird and wonderful.

See the small things that aren't big enough to fit onto the glossy tourist brochures. The ones that the locals know about and are usually the best kept secrets.

Check out wickedcampers.com now.

I want one that has the most colourful hippy flowers. I grew up in the "Flower Power" era and actually drove a "Herbie Beetle" complete with yellow daisies way back in the 70's.

So, if you are out on the Victorian roads, watch out for the brightly coloured "Wicked" Van driven by the brightly coloured Grey Nomad.......so much to see, so much to do.

Bye for now
D'Maz

Perhaps she will have some more great stories for us in the near future.

Thank you Marylyn Broomhall for allowing me to use your article on my web site.
Chris.