Monbulk is a township and farming area 40 km. east of Melbourne and eight km. south-east of Mount Dandenong. Its name derives from the Parish of Monbulk which in turn derived from the Monbulk pastoral run on the Lysterfield area, some ten km. south-west of the present Monbulk. The pastoral run was named Monbulk by one of its lessees, who heard Aborigines, in the area near another of his properties near Gardiner, now a Melbourne suburb, repeat the word "Mun Bulk". There is also a Monbulk Creek which runs through Lysterfield. The horticultural industry is a strong commodity in Monbulk, diversified into fruits, vegetables, cut flowers and plant and bulb nurseries. Monbulk township has a substantial residential component, a short main-street shopping area, two recreation areas with sports facilities, churches and a R.S.L. hall. Out of the town is Monbulk college, Monbulk Aquatic Centre(heated indoor swimming pool) and several tourist facilities, including Nathania Springs and a guest house from the early days of tourism. Our Receptionist Min Sands lives here in Monbulk.
