Suburb Property Profile: Gisborne, VIC 3437
Located approximately 54km north-west of Melbourne's CBD, Gisborne is the largest town in the Macedon Ranges Shire. Established in 1851, the town is known for its country homesteads, tree-lined streets and thriving restaurant and café scene, and has become a genuinely popular "tree change" destination for Melbourne residents seeking large leafy blocks and a quieter lifestyle within easy commuting distance of the city. Here's our comprehensive guide to the area.
Location Demographics
The population of Gisborne sits at 10,142 according to the 2021 Census (usual resident measure of 10,999 including surrounding areas), up from 8,999 in 2016. The town has grown by almost 2,600 residents since 2011, with the average household holding 2.82 people, though planning controls have been put in place to protect the area's character and outstanding natural beauty as growth continues.
Travel & Infrastructure
Gisborne railway station, on the Bendigo line, has served the town since 1861 and offers a direct V/Line connection into Melbourne's Southern Cross Station, around 64km away, with 250 car parking bays and Parkiteer bike cage facilities. The town also sits within reach of the Calder Freeway for those driving.
Shopping
Gisborne's town centre supports the community's everyday needs, giving residents a genuine local hub with restaurants and cafes alongside typical retail, reflecting the town's character as the Macedon Ranges' commercial centre.
Schools & Recreation
Gisborne Secondary College, established in 1981, serves as the town's main government secondary school, with an enrolment of around 990–1,071 students across Years 7–12 and more than 800 students bussed in from the wider southern Macedon Ranges district. The school has recently received significant state government funding, including $12.928 million in the 2021–22 budget and a further $5.8 million for a new trades hub in the 2023–24 budget.
Local Amenities
Gisborne sits within the broader Macedon Ranges Shire, best known for its native forests, the iconic Hanging Rock, and thriving artisan food and wine industries — all a short drive from town. The area's leafy, large-block character and proximity to genuine natural attractions are central to its appeal as a tree-change destination for Melbourne buyers.
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Joel Robinson
Joel Robinson is the Editor in Chief at iBuildNew, where he leads the editorial team and oversees the country's most comprehensive news coverage dedicated to the new home building industry. With more than a decade of experience in residential real estate journalism, Joel brings deep insight into Australia's evolving home building and construction landscape.
