when I left Australia in late 2009 nothing much had changed regarding the Docklands. Unfortunately I’m overseas in Taiwan now so I hacan’t head down for an update.

Unless something has slipped by the radar though, I don’t imagine too much has changed. The last major thing to hit the docklands was Costco and that was back in mid 2009. I very much doubt organic neighbourhood atmosphere has sprung up yet and I imagine the place is still inhabited mostly by 9-5 mon-fri workers, retirees and students.

If you’re in Melbourne the Docklands isn’t too hard to get too, you’re best bet would be heading down there and just going for a walkabout.

Personally I think the Docklands probably still has at least another 5-10 years to go before it vaguely starts to resemble any sense of character identity.

Was doing some research on the net about Docklands and came across your piece. Found it very interesting.

Was wondering though if the development has improved in the last 18 or so months since you wrote this?

Is it busier now or still a ‘wasteland’? Would love to hear your views.

Cheers

I’m almost certain that its planning was inspired by the 1959 film “On the Beach”.

http://www.melbourneheritage.com/2009/03/26/docklands-disease-spreading-to-melbourne

The Docklands is literally next door and is nearly always deserted. There might be a bit of action in the overpriced restaurants on a Saturday night but the contrast is still ridiculous.

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Every time I’ve ridden down there seriously it’s as deserted as the docklands themselves. I just assumed all those businesses were mafia fronts or something.

Nobody really drives down there to buy anything do they?

If so I do that ride a fair bit and agree it’s pretty relaxing. Lorimer road can be a bit boring but it’s pretty interesting if there’s a big ship being unloaded on your right. Some of those cranes are huge… as I’m riding past I secretely wish the guy would swing the crane around and let the shipping container fly – that’d be so awesome to watch.

I reckon he could get it to the otherside of the river, easy!

There was absolutely nobody around except for one guy crossing the street, mind you this was lunchtime on a reasonably sunny Saturday too.

I’m pretty sure the barriers set up on that road were the only thing keeping the zombies at bay.

@Jeb: The bike facilities are amazing at the Docklands, everywhere you go there are giant rows of empty bicycle stands it’s great. If only there was a reason to ride there beyond using it as a city bypass to get into the western suburbs.

Sure, you don’t give a time of day… I mean Chicago could look dead at 5:00AM BUT I’m assuming this is during the day.

I’m a bit surprised.