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Coburg, Victoria facts for kids

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Coburg
MelbourneVictoria
Sydney Rd Coburg.jpg
Sydney Road, Coburg
Coburg is located in Melbourne
Coburg
Coburg
Location in Melbourne
Population 24,977 (2011 census)
 • Density 3,570/km2 (9,200/sq mi)
Postcode(s) 3058
Area 7 km2 (2.7 sq mi)
Location 8 km (5 mi) from Melbourne
LGA(s) City of Moreland
State electorate(s)
  • Brunswick
  • Pascoe Vale
  • Preston
Federal Division(s) Wills
Suburbs around Coburg:
Pascoe Vale Coburg North Preston
Pascoe Vale South Coburg Preston
Brunswick West Brunswick Thornbury

Coburg is a lively suburb located in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is about 8 kilometers north of Melbourne's main city area. Coburg is part of the City of Moreland local council. A few homes on its eastern side are in the City of Darebin. In 2011, about 24,977 people lived in Coburg.

Coburg is known as one of 26 important "Activity Centres" in the Melbourne 2030 plan. This means it's a key place for shopping, jobs, and community life.

Discover Coburg's Past

Before European settlers arrived, the land around Coburg was home to the Wurundjeri people. They spoke the Woiwurrung language. The Wurundjeri people had a deep spiritual connection to their land. They held special ceremonies along the Merri Creek.

How Coburg Got Its Name

The area was first mapped out in 1837-1838 by Robert Hoddle. It was initially called Pentridge. This name came from a town called Pentridge in England.

Quarrying, which is digging for stone, started in the 1850s. People were digging for a type of stone called bluestone. By 1875, there were 41 bluestone quarries in Coburg. In December 1850, a stockade (a type of prison camp) was built here. Prisoners worked hard, breaking bluestone for roads. This place later became HM Prison Pentridge.

In 1867, people living in the area wanted to change the name. They felt embarrassed because their suburb was known for its prison. They suggested the name Coburg. The government agreed, and the name was officially changed in March 1870.

Explore Coburg's Landmarks

Coburg has many interesting places to visit. The Sydney Road area is a busy spot for shops and businesses. The Moreland City Council has its main offices on Bell Street, including the Coburg City Hall.

La Rose house is another important place. It is Victoria's oldest known private home. The John Fawkner Hospital is on Moreland Road. Lake Reserve, located on Merri Creek, is a beautiful natural area.

Pentridge Prison's New Life

Coburg's most famous landmark is HM Prison Pentridge. This historic prison has recently been changed into a housing area. Many new homes have been built there.

Historic Places to See

Coburg has several places that are important for their history. These are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. They include:

  • Murray Road Coburg And Urquhart Street Coburg
  • 1 Booth St Coburg
  • Bush Reserve, 227a Bell Street Coburg

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