Fawkner Park extends from Toorak Road in the north to Commercial Road in the south. This area was a camping ground for local Aboriginal groups, and it continues to be an important place for current Traditional Custodians.
The 41 hectares of Fawkner Park was first reserved in 1862 and the park was named after Melbourne's co-founder, John Pascoe Fawkner.
This park has a big sporting history – in 1862 almost every popular sporting activity was held here. Summer weekend cricket matches have an English 'village green' atmosphere, with spectators making use of the free on-site barbecues and picnic areas.
During World War II, an area of Fawkner Park was used by the Defence Department. Current softball competitions are an enduring link to wartime activity and the presence of American servicemen. After the war, the buildings were converted to a transit camp for migrants which closed in 1955.