Djerring Trail - Caulfield to Oakleigh

Djerring Trail - Caulfield to Oakleigh created by Jo

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Summary

A pleasant walk along the linear park underneath the Dandenong train line, between Caulfield and Oakleigh stations.

Description

The Djerring Trail is a shared walking and cycling path that was completed in 2018 along the Dandenong Train line as part of the level crossing removal project and elevation of the train line. This walk covers the section between Caulfield and Oakleigh stations, but the complete path runs for 17km between Monash University’s Caulfield Campus and the East Link Trail in Dandenong. The project provided the opportunity to link up many shorter, separate sections of shared path to provide a continuous connection.

You can walk different sections of the route, and the proximity of the train line means there's always the option to skip ahead or get back to where you started when you have had enough.

The Djerring Trail is a linear park with lots of people and places to sit and watch the world. There are plenty of trees and the elevated train line provide shade on hot days. The path is also lit for walking at night.

Points of interest include community spaces, exercise stations, recreational and sporting facilities. Parts of the old rail and signaling infrastructure have been incorporated in new landscaping and seating along the path. At the end of the walk you can put your feet up and enjoy a delicious treat or refreshing drink at one of Oakleigh's many cafes.

Getting there:
Public transport - all trains on the Pakenham, Cranbourne and Frankston lines stop at Caulfield station. Alternatively, the route 3 tram also goes to Caulfield and there are many bus routes which connect with the train line and hence Djerring Trail in this section.
Driving - you can park on one of the local roads adjacent to the trail or in the car park near Caulfield station (ticketed parking).

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Points of Interest

1. Caulfield station

Start on the north side of the station on Sir John Monash Dr

2. Playground and oval

There's an large grassed oval with a playground on the far side

3. The start of the trail!

The Djerring trail starts properly off Dudley St behind the sports pavilion.

4. Games area

Area for games marked out next to the trail. Bring your ball for a game of four square!

5. Naming the Djerring Trail

Did you know 'Djerring' is an Aboriginal word that translates as 'join' or 'unite' and can also be interpreted as 'connect'? It was chosen from a shortlist by a public vote.

6. Multi-use sports area

Lots of things to do here - basketball ring, table tennis, climbing frame, tables and chairs. Bring your own equipment and make some new friends (it gets busy on the weekends!)

7. An historical seat

An old support for the overhead train wires has been fashioned into a seat! There are several of these dotted along the path.

8. Exercise station

Exercise equipment

9. The steepest hill on the trail!

This is probably the steepest part of the trail, but it's still an easy walk. There's also a connection across to the other side of the train line.

10. Train track garden bed

Sections of rail from the old train line have been used to create garden beds. This is just one example, there are other similar features along the trail.

11. Seating with history

Parts of the old train infrastructure have been used to create a place to rest.

12. Hughesdale station

Hughesdale station forecourt, similar to the other stations with places to rest and plenty of shade on a summer afternoon.

13. The end of the path

The trail ends outside Oakleigh station, for this walk anyway! For those keen to continue, go through the underpass and carpark where Djerring Trail continues on the north east side of the station.

14. Eaton Mall

Go under the underpass to access Oakleigh. Stroll through Eaton Mall and relax with a well earned refreshment or bite to eat at one of the many renowned cafes.