Exploring Cardinia Shire
Explore our beautiful region
Only 45 minutes from the Melbourne CBD by car, Cardinia Shire is spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor activites, local artisans, sporting events and on farm experiences.
The hills
The northern part of our municipality, lovingly called 'the hills' by locals, includes the charming villages of Emerald, Gembrook, Cockatoo and Upper Beaconsfield. This area sits at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges and includes a range of locations and activities including Puffing Billy, Cardinia Reservoir, Bunyip State Park, Emerald Lake Park and rolling farmland. We invite you to immerse yourself in the area’s rich history, visit community markets and enjoy proudly prepared local cuisine.
Central Cardinia Shire
Our central area inlcudes the towns of Beaconsfield, Pakenham and Officer, and also includes our railway towns of Nar Nar Goon, Tynong, Garfield and Bunyip. These areas are home to easily accessible restaurants like the Cardinia Cultural Centre, old style country pubs, shopping and new sporting venues. A beguiling mix of old and new, as traditional country town meets the new metropolitan.
The south
Our southern coast area includes world-acclaimed Ramsar wetlands, the townships of Koo Wee Rup and Lang Lang, and further afield, Tooradin. Don’t be surprised by the bountiful farmland as you traverse this region. This area is especially rich in asparagus growing, supplying most of Australia’s asparagus crop.