[2] The name was recorded by Alexander Forrest in 1877 as referring to the northern portion of Careniup Swamp.

[4] The area became popular with Southern European migrant families, because it was one of the few areas that had not been settled and many migrant families wanted to build their own homes in their distinctive style, many complete with plaster figurines of lions and romanesque style columns adorning the front verandah and entry.

Similarly, other European immigrant families had already settled in nearby suburbs such as Osborne Park, and made their living as market gardeners.

[citation needed] As many of the older families pass on and others choose to update by building a newer home further north, the area is becoming increasingly popular with those of Asian cultural background, which has also led to some parts of Balcatta being subdivided into small units or villas.

A number of new round-abouts have been constructed in order to slow down traffic at various points on the road.