By Derek Schlennstedt
The 1000 steps
The 1000 Steps walk, officially the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, is an institution for fitness enthusiasts from across Melbourne and is in neighbouring Upper Ferntree Gully.
Making the 3 kilometre trek one of the most popular spots in the Dandenong Ranges National Park are the towering gum trees of Sherbrooke Forest that line the walkway and within minutes envelop visitors in a world of lush fern trees, all manner of moss, and colourful fungi.
There’s always an incredible collection of wildlife which stare curiously at walkers through the brush, with lyrebirds a familiar sight.
The history
The Running Rabbits Military Museum is an important attraction in the Dandenong Ranges and houses a huge range of historic artefacts and photographs from the Boer War and World Wars I and II.
The museum, located at the Upwey-Belgrave RSL, has more than 2500 items on display, including weaponry and arms used during these wars, documents used during this period, and an array of antique equipment.
The museum opened on Anzac Day in 2009 and was named for those who fought on the Kokoda Track during WWII.
Cafe culture
Whether it’s a leisurely breakfast cafe-style, a formal dining experience or the discovery of a new bakery, Upwey has it all.
There are various coffee shops dappled throughout the township, each offering a smattering of delicious treats and delights.
Be sure to stop by the very hot-to-trot Tin Pan Alley for some delicious woodfired pizzas.
Burrinja Cultural Centre
Burrinja is a vibrant community cultural centre that encompasses multiple gallery spaces, a 400-seat theatre, live music, arts activities and events, artist studios, gardens, a gallery shop, workshops and a cafe.
The theatre hosts a variety of performances with a focus on comedy, dance and family-friendly shows.
To see what’s on, visit www.burrinja.org.au.
Belmont Heritage Lookout Tower
The tower at the Belmont Avenue reserve in Upwey was built in 1923 and is of state historical, architectural and social significance.
It is believed to be the oldest known wooden lookout tower in Victoria and stands at 8.4 metres high.
The lookout is the only surviving example of such structures in the Dandenongs and is the perfect location to watch the sunset over the city, though visitors cannot climb the tower itself.
