The area now comprising the Shire of Nillumbik has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Wurundjeri-willam clan of the Woi-wurrung speaking people.
The Woi-wurrung people belong to the confederacy known as the Kulin who reside in areas surrounding Melbourne, and whose collective territory extends across much of Victoria.
Nillumbik is located within the clan boundary of the Wurundjeri-willam (‘white gum tree dwellers’). Wurundjeri is the clan name, willam refers to a subsection of the clan associated with a specific land area recorded as the Yarra and Plenty.
The Wurundjeri name for the region is ‘nillumbik’, meaning 'shallow earth'.
More information
Visit heritage sites in Nillumbik
There are many significant historical sites that you can visit in Nillumbik. These include historic buildings, cemeteries, bridges and memorials.
Nillumbik Heritage Guide
The Digital Nillumbik Heritage Guide showcases the rich history of Nillumbik through photographic images, interactive maps, pop up discoveries, and storytelling.
Discover the fascinating history of Nillumbik’s First People, our local pioneers, the Shire’s historic sites, homes and buildings, memorials and cemeteries, and our arts and culture heritage. All of this can be found amongst tales of local folklore and mysteries.
This interactive guide is a treasure trove of information accompanied by over three hundred photographs from our earliest history right through to the present day There are also driving tours and historic walks to explore.
The guide has been created in collaboration with Nillumbik’s historic societies, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, Nillumbik Reconciliation Group, Yarra Plenty Regional Library and dozens of other contributors. It was supported by a Public Records Office Victoria grant.
Design: Rare Metal Pty Ltd.
Please note: this document is designed to be viewed in full-screen mode.
Download a printable PDF version of the Digital Heritage Guide(PDF, 13MB)
Research your local history
These online resources will help you to find out more about Nillumbik’s local history.