Cranbourne Schools & More

Welcome to Cranbourne, a vibrant and bustling suburb located 43 kilometres south-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. As part of the City of Casey local government area, Cranbourne is a thriving community with a rich history, diverse population, and a plethora of attractions which include the award-winning Royal Botanic Gardens. With a growing population of 21,281 (as of the 2021 census), Cranbourne offers a unique blend of natural beauty, bustling commercial hub, and modern amenities which make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

History of Cranbourne

Cranbourne has a rich history that dates back to the time of the Boonwurrung Aboriginal people, who were the original inhabitants of the area. The first European settlers, the Ruffy brothers, arrived in 1836 and later established the Cranbourne Inn. The Cranbourne Post Office opened in 1857 and the development of the area began in the 1860s. However, development was initially hindered by the Koo Wee Rup swampland, which was later drained to facilitate further growth.

The name 'Cranbourne' is believed to have been inspired either by the Viscount Cranbourne, son of the Marquess of Salisbury, or the village of Cranbourne in Berkshire, England. Historians can't be sure either way.

The town has a strong agricultural history, with a large cattle market established soon after settlement. From the early 1900s, Cranbourne was the location of one of Melbourne's major market gardening industries, some of which still exist today.

Cranbourne Historical Photo: Cranbourne 1 (a.k.a. Bruce) is the largest fragment of the Cranbourne Meteorite
The Cranbourne Meteorite is the second largest meteorite found in Australia and is believed to have fallen circa 1760. Image courtesy of State Library Victoria.

Schools in Cranbourne

Cranbourne, a vibrant and growing suburb in Melbourne, is home to a variety of schools. Primary schools in the area include Cranbourne, Cranbourne Park, Cranbourne East, and Cranbourne West Primary Schools. For Secondary, St Peters College, Cranbourne Secondary College, and Cranbourne West Secondary College all offer enrolment for students from years 7-12. Casey Grammar School also offers enrolment for students from Prep to Year 12.

Parents searching for P-10 Christian schools near Cranbourne will find that all students at ACC Casey are well known, well loved and well taught by a dedicated team of Christian teachers - and it’s only a short drive from Cranbourne.

The Natural Beauty of Cranbourne

Cranbourne, a suburb in Melbourne, Victoria, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The suburb is home to the award-winning Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, a stunning showcase of over 100,000 plants from 1,900 varieties, set within a precious remnant of the region's indigenous vegetation. The garden and surrounding bushland offer over 10 kilometres of walking tracks and six kilometres of cycling tracks, along with amenities such as a lookout tower, picturesque shelters, barbecues and playgrounds. The suburb's natural assets are actively managed to control non-indigenous plants and exotic weeds, preserving Cranbourne's unique Australian landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

Most popular cafe in Cranbourne

The Times Cranbourne is the latest venture by the team behind Times Berwick and Groove Train Cranbourne. With the owners bringing with them 15 years of hospitality expertise, it has quickly become a beloved spot in the community. Praised for its outstanding service, wonderful and fresh food, and of course it's exceptional coffee, the café has garnered high recommendations. Customers appreciate the dedication to crafting the perfect cup of coffee, with skilled baristas ensuring a unique experience tailored to every coffee lover's taste.

Customer reviews echo the sentiments of a community embracing this new gem. With an inviting atmosphere, well-lit space, and a wonderful and attentive team of staff, The Times Cranbourne has established itself as a go-to spot for intimate events or casual brunch dates. The positive community reception, friendly service, and continuous efforts to enhance the customer experience make it a standout in Cranbourne.

Superfood salad with haloumi
Superfood Salad with haloumi, wild rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, and house vinaigrette.

Hobbies and Interests of Residents in Cranbourne

Residents of Cranbourne enjoy a wide range of activities, reflecting the diverse interests of the community. Outdoor pursuits are particularly popular, with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne Racecourse & Recreation Reserve, and several golf clubs providing ample opportunities for leisure and exercise. The Casey Complex offers a variety of indoor activities, including skating, sports, and swimming. Cultural interests are catered for by the Factory – Rehearsal Centre for the Arts and the new Cranbourne Multicultural Community Centre. Youth programs and music events are regularly run by FReZza or Spectrum Entertainment.

Cranbourne’s local economy

Cranbourne is known for its vibrant local economy. The suburb boasts a substantial commercial centre, including the Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre and the bustling High Street. It also has a rich agricultural history, with some of the original market gardens still operational in the area. The horse racing industry has a long-standing presence in Cranbourne, with the modern racecourse and adjoining training complex hosting numerous events, including the Cranbourne Cup. The suburb is well-connected with public transport, including the Cranbourne railway line and multiple bus services, facilitating commuting to surrounding suburbs and Melbourne's Central Business District.

Transport options in Cranbourne

Cranbourne provides residents with various public transport options, facilitating convenient commutes to nearby areas and the Melbourne CBD. Local bus services and the Cranbourne train station are integral components of the public transport network, complemented by well-connected major roads that link Cranbourne to surrounding areas.

Local businesses, Cranbourne

Cranbourne is home to various businesses that cater to the needs of residents, including:

By supporting these local businesses, residents contribute to the growth and development of the community.

Suburb Snapshot

  • The drive time from Cranbourne to ACC Casey is 17 minutes.
  • Bell times: 8.45am to 3:15pm
  • 2024 term dates:
    • Term 1: 29 January - 28 March
    • Term 2: 15 April - 21 June
    • Term 3: 15 July - 20 September
    • Term 4: 7 October - 4 December