The name "Boroondara" means "shady place" and was the name which surveyor Hoddle gave to the parish embracing these uplands a few kilometres east of Melbourne.

Boroondara Bushwalkers Incorporated was formed in 1987 as a result of a public meeting that showed an overwhelming support for a bushwalking club in the Kew Area.

From these early beginnings, the Club quickly established a strong activities program. Subsequent years have seen it earn a reputation as a friendly club with a minimum of formality, and with a keen community spirit.