Shayn

Donvale is a beautiful suburb, that consists of a mixture of manicured acreages, bush blocks and suburban houses. One of its striking attractions is the local Yarran Dheran - a breathtakingly beautiful bushland Park- located on the border of Donvale, with paths that follows the banks of the Mullum Mullum Creek. For nature lovers, many native species of wildlife, particularly birds, live in the park, and a walk along the Mullum Mullum creek trail will not leave you disappointed. Despite being surrounded by nature, Donvale is surprising close to amenities. It has the perfect balance of country feel living, but city convenience. If you live on the eastern part of the suburb, Eastland, Costco are a quick drive away. You have a choice of 4 train stations (Nunawading, Mitcham, Heatherdale and Ringwood) to choose from, but if you chose to drive, the eastern freeway is not far away. It is very quiet and peaceful though, as the eastern freeway runs below as a tunnel through the suburb, leaving the Bushland protected. The suburb itself is only 19 kms from the city and is an easy drive.

If you are unconvinced, all you have to is look up a map, Melway or Google Earth, and you will immediately be able to see just how beautifully green the suburb is, and how close it is to amenities. Better still, pay Yarran Dheran a visit, explore the many walking paths and go for a scenic drive around suburb. You will no doubt appreciate this little place of sanctuary in Melbourne’s east.

I used to live in the Timbarra Estate, which had really nice parks and a good shopping centre (Parkhill Plaza). I have since moved to the Olde Berwick area, and just loving it! It is honestly such a beautiful area, and reminds me of my husband's home town in New Zealand, with its rolling hills and mature trees. I have great neighbours too, who bring in my bins for me every week! We have an annual christmas picnic get-together in one of our many local parks ( overlooking the Harkaway Hills). You can walk to the local high street steeped in history, with its many cafes and restaurants, buy a book from the local Collins bookstore, sip lattes from Gloria Jeans, go to the quaint local library for a leisurely read....The train station is only minutes away, there are a number of good private schools, and a reputable public high school. Lastly, for retail therapy - there's a Westfield shopping centre - Fountain Gate where you can get everything you need.