Maidstone

Maidstone began community life as the site of a large migrant hostel, but has since developed into a typical inner suburb flanked by three of Melbourne"s most notable landmarks - the Maribyrnong River, the Melbourne Showgrounds and Flemington Racecourse, scene of such classic races as the VRC Derby and the Melbourne Cup.

The hostel, which was the first Australian home for so many migrants and European refugees in the wake of World War II, now provides accommodation for 500 or so tertiary students, while Maidstone itself is undergoing a major transformation as a number of old industrial sites are redeveloped as residential enclaves.

The picturesque, 18-hole Medway course, which has been laid out on the banks of the Maribyrnong, is a challenging test of golf.

Maidstone is at the centre of the City of Maribyrnong, which covers 3125ha between the Maribyrnong River and Stony Creek. Fifteen per cent of the municipality is reserved in open space, parks and a riverside green belt.

The Footscray Arts Centre is at the hub of the diverse and active cultural community, with a theatre and performing complex, a display gallery, shop, café and courtyard.