Tecoma

Tecoma, a suburb located in the Dandenong Ranges region of Victoria, Australia, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The suburb was originally known as Little Tecoma until the railway line was extended to Belgrave in 1900. The name Tecoma was chosen as it was believed to be a native aboriginal word for a bird or the sound of a bell. The traditional owners of the land are the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation. Tecoma is situated on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, and many of the surrounding natural landmarks and features have significant cultural and spiritual value for the Wurundjeri people. During the 1800s, the Dandenong Ranges were heavily forested, and the area was used mainly for timber cutting and agriculture, with orchards, farms and grazing grounds covering much of the surrounding land. In 1891, the area now known as Tecoma was sold to the Mount Morton Land Company for the purposes of subdividing and selling the land for residential use. This led to an influx of settlers, and the area began to develop into a community. However, it was not until the construction of the railway line in the early 1900s that Tecoma began to thrive. The arrival of the railway line in Tecoma led to an explosion in residential development, and the area became a popular destination for weekend holidaymakers from Melbourne. Many historic homes from this era still stand in Tecoma's streets today, and the suburb has a unique heritage character that reflects the architectural styles of the early 20th century. During the 1930s, Tecoma became home to a number of artists and writers, who were drawn to the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Dandenong Ranges. Among these were artists such as Albert Tucker, who went on to become one of Australia's most celebrated painters. In the 1950s and 60s, Tecoma became a popular destination for tourists, particularly those who were interested in bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forests and natural landmarks. The Puffing Billy Railway, which runs through the centre of Tecoma, became a major attraction for tourists, and remains one of the area's most visited attractions today. Tecoma has also been home to a number of community initiatives and groups, such as the Tecoma Primary School, which was founded in 1894, and the Tecoma Progress Association, which was established in the early 1900s and continues to play an active role in maintaining the suburb's heritage and culture. Today, Tecoma is a thriving suburb that is home to a vibrant community of residents, business owners, artists, and tourists. The area's rich history, natural beauty, and unique character make it a truly special place to live or visit.