Local Insights – Ivanhoe
By Natalia Smith on 19 Jul 2013
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The Ivanhoe Town Hall
Source: Wikipedia
Ivanhoe residents have access to some of the best healthcare, sporting facilities and schools in Melbourne. Local facilities include an extensive library, a community centre, the Ivanhoe Aquatic and Fitness Centre and ‘The Centre’ Town Hall.
The several parks, creeks and reserves in the area provide over 50km of cycling and walking tracks as well as wildlife sites, playgrounds and picnic spots.
According to Myschool.com.au, schools in the area consistently achieve some of the highest NAPLAN scores across all learning areas. Parents can choose from a number of excellent primary schools and are close by to Ivanhoe Grammar and Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar, two of Australia’s leading independent schools.
Local shopping on Upper Heidelberg Road provides the usual banks, supermarkets and pharmacies as well as smaller family-run businesses. Ivanhoe business owners are often second or third generation locals themselves and are keen to promote a sense of community involvement.
Fresh local produce is readily available. Darriwill Farm Shop owner Maria hosts regular gourmet food and wine VIP nights and cooking demonstrations. She describes Ivanhoe as a popular “destination suburb” with her customers consisting of both locals and tourists.
Well tailored to the many families in the area, the local council provide a varied activity program. The Livingstone Community Centre hosts craft, language and social groups for all ages. The centre also runs the popular Ivanhoe Makers’ Market on the 3rd Saturday of every month, showcasing local art and craft.
Other local initiatives include free skateboarding workshops for 5-14 years olds, winter games nights for kids and families, senior arts and music programs and a variety of sporting clubs.
