The City of Stonnington, nestled between Melbourne's CBD and the Dandenong Ranges, offers a fascinating journey into Victoria's geological past. The municipality is home to several volcanic features, remnants of long-extinct volcanoes that once dominated the region. These volcanic sites provide a unique opportunity to witness the natural forces that shaped the Australian landscape. The Stonnington Volcanic Plains, now covered by suburban development, were once a vast expanse of volcanic activity. The plains were formed by the uplift and erosion of volcanic deposits, leaving a relatively flat landscape dotted with volcanic features. One of the most notable volcanic sites in Stonnington is the Malvern Caldera, a large volcanic crater formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano.
While many of the volcanic features in Stonnington are not readily accessible due to development, some sites still offer a glimpse into the area's volcanic past. For instance, the corner of Dunlop and Coonil Avenues in Malvern East displays a large basalt boulder, a remnant of the area's volcanic activity. In nearby Poath Road, another basalt boulder can be found at the intersection with Anthony Avenue. These boulders are not only fascinating geological features but also serve as a reminder of the powerful forces that once shaped the region. To gain a deeper understanding of Stonnington's volcanic heritage, visitors can explore local resources such as the 'Volcanoes in Stonnington' pamphlet and local newspaper articles. These sources provide detailed information on the geology and volcanic features of the area, enhancing the experience of visiting these fascinating sites.