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 A park by the Yarra River |
Off St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia |
Providing a splash of green between busy Alexandra Avenue and the Yarra River, the Alexandra Gardens are a focal point for Melbourne's Moomba Waterfest and are a perfect vantage spot for the water sports, which are run during the festival. Elegant boat sheds dot the river bank, still routinely used by university rowing clubs. A walk along Capital City Trail leads to Southbank Promenade and the path is a popular spot for cyclists, joggers and inline skaters. During warmer months, Melbournians take advantage of the many barbecues dotting the riverbank. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Catherine O'Neil  |
 Photo: James Burke |
 Photo: Richard Rutter |
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Mornington Peninsula panoramas |
Arthurs Seat Road Melbourne, VIC 3936 Australia +61 3 5987 2565 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
This popular local attraction provides visitors to the Mornington Peninsula with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside, Port Phillip Bay and the beaches, as it makes its way up to the summit of Arthurs Seat. Once there, visitors can climb the 1934 art deco viewing tower, tour the gallery of local ceramic artist Marilyn Richards or visit the Seawinds botanical garden with its collection of native orchids. There are also five acres of grassland to picnic on, children's playgrounds, barbecue facilities and restaurants. Admission: Adults AUD8; children AUD6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil O'Connor |
 Photo: Paul |
 History and outdoor fun in Frankston |
Cranbourne Road Frankston Melbourne, VIC 3199 Australia +61 (0)3 9789 5529 http://www.walkabout.com.au/th... |
Today Ballam Park is smack bang in the middle of a Frankston housing estate, but when it was built in the 1840s, the homestead and grounds would have been quite isolated and needed to be self-sufficient. It even had its own blacksmith. The French style house and outbuildings are worth a visit if you are there on a Sunday. Keep an eye out for the famous ghosts. In Ballam Park itself you will find two wonderful adventure playgrounds (designed for different age groups), sports grounds and a picnic area with electric barbecues. Admission: Homestead: Adults AUD5; Children AUD2. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Bird watching, bike paths and barbecues |
Templestowe Road Templestowe Lower Melbourne, VIC 3107 Australia +61 3 9846 1338 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Along the banks of the Yarra River in the north-eastern suburbs are many great parks with bike tracks, barbecues and picnic areas. If you are looking for a healthy day out in the wide open spaces without going too far from Melbourne, this is the place to head for. Birrarung Park also boasts a small lake which is a magnet for local bird life. A leisurely walk or bike ride from the car park will take you around the lake and you can stop on the observation deck to see how many different species you can spot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: TigTab |
 Photo: Lachlan Doig |
 Photo: Neil Stewart |
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Outdoor treasure in the west |
Off Keilor Park Drive Keilor Melbourne, VIC 3033 Australia http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Allow lots of time to enjoy this park and bring your bikes or walking shoes to really make the most of it. Set in a bend of the Maribyrnong River, the park encompasses the Kulin wetlands (named after the original Aboriginal inhabitants), and the historic Dodds Homestead as well as several picnic and barbecue areas. The Visitors' Centre has lots of information on the park's history and facilities and also houses a kiosk. On weekends and school holidays the Hedgend Maze is open. Also worth visiting is Horseshoe Bend Farm, which is adjacent to, but not directly accessible from, Brimbank Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hubert Dumas |
 Photo: Hubert Dumas |
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Wildflowers, kangaroos and walking tracks |
Off Princes Hwy Melbourne, VIC 3221 Australia 13 19 63 (Local calls only: Parks Victoria Information Line) http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Located 93 kilometres west of Melbourne and rising majestically above the sweeping Werribee Plains, these ranges are part of a geological fault line. Hikers and day-trippers wander at will through untamed mountain forests of stringybark, ironbark and box, and descend the many spectacular gorges and valleys that are now home to grey kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. In spring the mountainsides are carpeted with over 400 species of wildflower. The park is best accessed via Anakie, Meredith, or Ballan. Barbecue, picnic and camping facilities are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elizabeth Donoghue |
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For Thomas the Tank Engine fans of all ages |
434 Belgrave-Hallam Road Narre Warren North Melbourne, VIC 3804 Australia +61 3 9796 8481 |
Built with loving detail by Colin and Nancy Campbell, this 20 acre property is worth seeing and is sure to delight Thomas the Tank Engine fans of any age. Riding on little trains, you pass through an ever changing landscape of lakes, hills and forests of pines and willows. Steam, hydraulic and petrol locomotives are all represented and if you run into Colin or Nancy, they will love to have a chat about how they created the place. Admission: Short ride (six minutes) AUD3; long ride (16 minutes) AUD4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautiful landscaped lawns in the heart of the city |
Corner Victoria Parade and Nicholson Street Carlton Melbourne, VIC 3053 Australia |
Situated on the outskirts of the city, Carlton Gardens surround the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building and new Melbourne Museum. Built in 1880 as an exhibition centre--and still used as such--the Royal Exhibition Building housed the Victorian Parliament for 27 years, when Victoria's parliament building was borrowed by the National Legislature! A short walk from Brunswick Street's trendy cafés and shops, the Gardens' numerous walking and cycling tracks provide a peaceful respite from the city's bustle. The beautifully landscaped lawns also boast a Children's Traffic School, where youngsters learn road rules, and the huge Imax theatre. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ben britten |
 Photo: Craig Anderson |
 Photo: Craig Anderson |
 Photo: Lindsay Lim |
 Photo: Jean Crotty |
 Photo: Stephen Rowley |
 Photo: Ben Alfred Hockman |
 Photo: Anthony Agius |
 Photo: Charm White |
 Photo: Isabelle |
 Photo: Caroline Lindholm |
 Photo: Chris Newberry |
 Photo: Dalziel Jay Haitch |
 Photo: Grant Harris |
 Photo: Blake Lennon |
 Photo: Corrinne Milsom-Mann |
 Photo: Lionel Elliott |
 Photo: Stuart Andrew Jones |
 Photo: Thilini Mahaliyana |
 Photo: Susie Marshall |
 Photo: pencilfury |
 Photo: Vitolio Family |
 Photo: em cappas |
 Photo: riverstyx |
 Photo: Kartikeya Rao |
 Photo: Amanda McLay |
 Photo: Erik Alvarez Jensen |
 Photo: elastic design |
 Photo: Tom Haines |
 Photo: Maria Jimena |
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For little equestrians |
Beaconsfield Parade St Kilda Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia |
If your child is going through the 'wanna ride on a pony' stage, this might be a good place to see how they like it, before you sign up for serious lessons. The pony rides have been a fixture in St Kilda's Catani Gardens for many years so the animals are gentle with their little riders. Children under 10 will probably get the most enjoyment out of it, but there is plenty for the rest of the family to do along the St Kilda foreshore area. Admission: Ride only AUD2; ride and photo AUD7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A jewel in the hills |
Emerald Lake Road Emerald Melbourne, VIC 3782 Australia +61 3 5968 4667 |
A popular stop on the Puffing Billy Railway line or a destination in itself, Emerald Lake Park is a very pleasant day trip from Melbourne. There is plenty for children to do to burn off energy after the drive or train trip. Water activities include paddleboat rides, swimming in the children's pool (gated for safety) and a water slide in the warmer months. If you do not bring your own picnic or barbecue food you can get hot food or snacks from the tea rooms and kiosk. Admission: AUD4 per car per day; AUD1 per hour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nathan Jones |
 Photo: Philip Brookes |
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Possums and History in the Park |
Wellington Parade Melbourne, VIC 3002 Australia |
Fitzroy Gardens, with their leafy corridors of trees, ferns and flower beds, are one of Melbourne's favourite places. Another attraction is Captain Cook's Cottage (Cook's former home that was transported from Yorkshire, England, and rebuilt here), which displays the history of the famous explorer's life. Children will be delighted by the Fairy Tree, with its cute carvings of fairies and other "wee folk" and the model Tudor village. Evening visitors can even meet the locals—the possumsmdash;who come out to feed at night. The Gardens are free. There's a small charge for Captain's Cook Cottage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Celine Zheng |
 Photo: Bryan Garnett-Law |
 Photo: Rachel Dancer |
 Photo: Jarrod Hall |
 Photo: balzerowitz |
 Photo: Robin Hajek |
 Photo: Leissa Wheatley |
 Photo: mb aussie |
 Photo: arctanx.tk |
 Photo: alex_wapping |
 Photo: Laurent Perraudin |
 Photo: Jennifer Smith |
 Photo: Kathrin Long |
 Photo: Pascal Busch |
 Photo: dihlie photo |
 Photo: Marc Schneeberger |
 Photo: Victoria from Fernlands |
 Photo: Jonathan LaRocca |
 Photo: go'n'see |
 Photo: lastfirstkiss |
 A patch of green in the heart of the city |
Opposite Latrobe Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia |
Set in the heart of the city, these gardens are a Mecca for lunchtime office workers. The original pines and gums have been replaced with shady oaks and elms, ideal for finding a quiet shady spot to eat a quick sandwich. Being on a hill with one of the best views over Port Phillip Bay, Flagstaff Gardens were named after the flagstaff that used to be raised to announce the arrival of a British ship carrying more new immigrants. The grounds were also an early pioneer burial site, as well as an important Aboriginal meeting place. A walking tour has recently been laid out with markers, giving visitors the opportunity to see the two sides of its history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Caroline Lindholm |
 Photo: edwin11_79 |
 Photo: Dalziel Jay Haitch |
 Photo: edwin11_79 |
 Photo: Dalziel Jay Haitch |
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A fun-filled day out |
Princes Freeway Melbourne, VIC 3813 Australia +61 3 5629 2613 http://www.ozemail.com.au/~gum... |
You know you are approaching Gumbuya Park when you spot the huge, colourful cassowary at the entrance. It is a day trip from Melbourne, but there is plenty to occupy children of all ages. After inspecting Aboriginal artefacts, walking through the aviary and meeting the native animals in the petting zoo, they can go crazy in the amusement park. You can eat in the cafe and ice cream parlour or use the many barbecues and picnic tables scattered around the park. Admission: Adults AUD7.50; children 4-17 years AUD4; seniors & students AUD5; family AUD22; groups need to book in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An adventure playground for all abilities |
Longstaff Street Kew East Melbourne, VIC 3101 Australia +61 3 9278 4444 |
Hay's Paddock bills itself as the first community playground in Australia designed for children of all physical and intellectual abilities. It certainly provides stimulation for all senses with lots of interesting things to feel and smell: listening tubes, brightly coloured climbing equipment and even a treehouse with pretend binoculars for birdwatching. Some signs are in Braille and there are special swings suitable for disabled children. The playground takes up one corner of a large area of playing fields, bushland and wetlands that are home to many native birds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Coastal wetland close to the city |
Bayview Street Williamstown Melbourne, VIC 3016 Australia |
Nature and bird lovers will be fascinated by this coastal salt marsh reserve located only five kilometers from the city center. Inhabited by pelicans and migratory wading birds, this complex natural ecosystem is one of only two salt marsh communities in metropolitan Melbourne. Walk or cycle along the boardwalk to explore the area without disturbing the vegetation. It provides a fascinating contrast to the cafe lifestyle of inner Melbourne. he ferry from either St Kilda or Southgate is a good alternative to the train and bus for travelers dependent on public transport. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: willmarypap |
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Wide open spaces |
Jells Road Wheelers Hill Melbourne, VIC 3150 Australia http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Bring the bikes, roller blades, bats, balls, kites, barbecue lunch, something to feed the ducks, oh and do not forget the kids! If you are in need of fresh air and free, healthy family fun, this huge park in Melbourne's outer east will keep the whole clan occupied for hours. Fitness fanatics can follow the exercise circuit but parents with prams can take their time on the many meandering walking tracks. Just keep an eye out for the speeding cyclists and rollerbladers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: © Janine Fabre |
 Photo: Andrew |
 Photo: Alistair Brett Woodf |
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Enjoy Albert Park Lake from the water |
Aquatic Drive South Melbourne Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia +61 3 9690 5862 http://www.jollyrogersailing.c... |
One of the best ways to see Albert Park Lake is on the water. Choose the type of conveyance (aqua bike, rowboat or canoe) to suit your abilities and energy levels. Best still, sit back and relax in the aqua bike and let your enthusiastic youngster do the hard work! On weekends the Lake hosts water craft of all sizes from radio-controlled model boats to yachts. The Park itself has some great playgrounds and picnic areas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Panoramic views of Melbourne |
Kinglake-Healesville Road Melbourne, VIC 3763 Australia +61 3 8627 4699 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Kinglake National Park caresses the southern slopes of the Great Dividing Range and offers fantastic views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay. The ferny gullies and forests are home to the rare black wallaby, kangaroos, water rats, lyrebirds and rosellas. The drier climate in the Wombelano-Andrews Hill section produces open wooded hills, while the Jehoshaphat Gully features dry and wet gullies, banksia and grass trees. Picnic facilities are available at several locations. While Kinglake is the largest national park near Melbourne, it is also surprisingly less visited than other better known parks, making it a great camping spot for the more adventurous outdoor lover. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
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The wild west |
Off Western Freeway Melbourne, VIC 3340 Australia 13 19 63 (Local calls only: Parks Victoria Information Line) http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Twenty two kilometres north of Bacchus Marsh, Lerderderg River along with the Werribee River has gouged a 300 metre deep gorge through the sandstone and slate of the Ballarat Plateau on its course through the rolling plains of Bacchus Marsh. The vegetation in the 12,700 hectare national park ranges from dry open forest to wet fern gullies and, in spring, a cacophony of spring flowers. The best time for walking is summer when the riverbed is dry and numerous swimming holes and sandy beaches can be found. The many walking tracks range from short hikes to more challenging overnight trips. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
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Who's who in the graveyard |
Melbourne General Cemetery Main Entrance College Crescent, Parkville Melbourne, VIC 3052 Australia +61 3 9872 5492 / +61 3 9890 9288 |
Now the permanent home to artists, actors, explorers, judges and the odd murderers and their victims, the Melbourne General Cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into Melbourne's past. Led by historians Jan Davidson and Helen Harris (OAM) the tours cover specific themes such as Creative Colonists, Law & Order, the Gentle Sex and Who was Who. Some of the famous Melburnians resident in this vast slice of Parkville are explorers Burke and Wills; actor Federici (now rumoured to haunt the Princess Theatre); Judge Redmond Barry, who sentenced Ned Kelly to death, and Peter Lalor, leader of the Eureka Stockade rebellion. The tours are not suitable for young children. Bookings are essential, as a minimum of five participants is needed for the tour to go ahead. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lars Hagelin |
 Photo: Lars Hagelin |
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Quarry transformed to parkland |
Via Margaret Street Newport Melbourne, VIC 3015 Australia +61 3 9932 1000 |
The only clue that this great park was once a quarry and landfill is the design of the picnic shelters. Built out of rough timber and corrugated iron to resemble the quarry workers' huts, the shelters provide protection from the elements and can be reserved by phone. The park is large enough to have its own full-time ranger and features a lake, fantastic adventure playground, amphitheatre, walking tracks and barbecues. A wetlands area planted with native flora is now home to many species of birds, amphibians and reptiles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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History, art and gardens |
34 Homestead Road Berwick Melbourne, VIC 3806 Australia +61 (0)3 9702 1919 |
This conglomeration of buildings dating from the 1860s is part museum and part artisans' workshops. The centrepiece Cheese Factory is now used as a conference and exhibition venue. Scattered around it are other buildings such as the Kitchen Washhouse, the Old Church, the Old Shop and the Clarke Pottery Studio. The Berwick District Woodworkers Club also has its home here. Lovely cottage gardens and an adventure playground complete the picture. On Sundays there are often historical re-enactments and special displays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Active play in a safe environment |
Corner Rob Roy Road and Ivanhoe Grove Malvern East Melbourne, VIC 3148 Australia |
The local community is rightly very proud of this magnificent adventure playground. The huge, elaborate timber structure resembles a castle or fort with lots of walkways, bridges, lookout towers and so on. Slides, swings, flying foxes and sand pits will also keep the kids busy. There is a low fence all the way around to prevent littlies from running onto the road, although the surrounding streets are fairly quiet. Chadstone Shopping Centre is nearby so if you and the kids need a fresh air break before or after shopping, check out this playground! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Peaceful park in Essendon |
Kellaway Avenue Essendon Melbourne, VIC 3040 Australia |
Not far from Moonee Valley Racecourse and the bustling Moonee Ponds shopping centre lies the peaceful and pretty Queens Park. Like a miniature version of Melbourne's Botanic Gardens it has a lake, complete with ducks and other feathered creatures, and enough flowers, shrubs and trees to keep budding horticulturists happy. There are interesting and challenging adventure playgrounds to explore, as well as a maze featuring art works and sculptures. If all this makes the tribe hungry you can adjourn to Max's Tea Rooms for a snack or a meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Graham |
 Photo: Lepa Beljac |
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A native-plant garden |
Ballarat Road Melbourne, VIC 3977 Australia +61 3 5990 2200 |
These beautiful gardens are a fascinating work in progress. Planted only in 1970, they are still in the process of maturing, but soon will be fully developed and an extension to the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens in South Yarra. Unlike the original gardens, with their classical Victorian landscaping and European flora, the Cranbourne gardens celebrate Australia's native species, many of which are unique. The park comprises 300 hectares of bush land with walking tracks and barbecues to enjoy, and is located in the fast-growing residential centre of Cranbourne, only one hour from Melbourne. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mick Stanic |
 Photo: Suzette Hosken |
 Photo: Alex Bilderling |
 Photo: Alex Bilderling |
 Photo: Anders Frey Birkmose |
 Photo: Thong Van |
 Photo: Peter Johnson |
 Photo: ali red |
 Photo: jim.boki |
 Photo: Mark Corea |
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A not so secret garden |
Birdwood Avenue South Yarra Melbourne, VIC 3141 Australia +61 3 9252 2300 http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/ |
Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are magnificently landscaped and boast a superb collection of plants from around Australia and the world. Spend a few hours strolling around, observing the beautiful black swans and water birds. Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Night Sky Experience (bookings required). There are special holiday and educational programs for children. Moonlight Cinema takes place nightly during summer. The Plant Craft Cottage sells unique handcrafts and the Observatory Café is great for light refreshments. The more formal Terrace Restaurant is ideal for corporate and private functions. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: m_l_monschein |
 Photo: Allyson Krieger |
 Photo: Janette Agg |
 Photo: Peter and Rachael Ba |
 Photo: Debora Silva |
 Photo: Peter Gawthrop, ARPS |
 Photo: Cristy Weggelaar |
 Photo: Rendy Anthony |
 Photo: wiessie |
 Photo: T.D. Wilson |
 Photo: Heather and Rob |
 Photo: Laureen LaBar |
 Photo: Philippe Ariaudo |
 Photo: Sim Tilcock |
 Photo: Ryan Smith |
 Photo: Vadim Berman |
 Photo: George Yi |
 Photo: Matthew Crowley |
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Ruffey Lake Park |
Victoria Street Doncaster Melbourne, VIC 3108 Australia |
The local community has created a fantastic park and playground out of a former orchard in this hilly spot in Doncaster. The centrepiece is a huge adventure playground built over several levels. This means lots of ladders, steps, ramps, slides and tunnels. In imaginative play the structure could easily double as a pirate ship, space station or fort. Other features include sandpits, swings and monkey bars. Children of all ages and abilities will find something to do here and the sheltered picnic tables are well positioned for adult supervision. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sights, sounds and smells of the bush |
Sherbrooke Road Sherbrooke Melbourne, VIC 3789 Australia |
This popular spot is part of the beautiful Dandenong Ranges National Park. As well as its pristine beauty, it is well-known for its lyrebirds, whose brilliant tail feathers and talent for mimicry have made it an Australian household name. Being shaded from the harsh summer sun and with mountain paths never too far from tearooms, restaurants and craft shops, the Forest is a popular walking spot for families. An added delight in the picnic grounds is the chance to feed the colourful and very friendly (or just greedy?) native birds that will sit on your head, hands and shoulders and obligingly pose for photos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charlie Brewer |
 Photo: Charlie Brewer |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: Kathryn Hore |
 Photo: David Hewett |
 Photo: Cameron Stephen |
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Melbourne's Blue Dandenongs |
Mt Dandenong Tourist Road Melbourne, VIC Australia http://www.dandenong-ranges.ne... |
The troubles of the world slip away as you ascend through mountain forests to Olinda. Bark hanging over the road outside William Ricketts Sanctuary lends a primordial feel to the drive. Further on, craft shops, tearooms, and restaurants with quaint names like "The Pig and Whistle" and "Fox and Hounds" line the village of Olinda. Once on top of the ridgeline it is an easy run to Sassafras with its tea shop, tearooms and Doll House Lane. Coming down the mountain, the villages of Ferny Creek and Tremont reveal more hidden delights en route to Ferntree Gully. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: Dey Alexander |
 Photo: David Hewett |
 Photo: don2g |
 Photo: Jay Wright |
 Photo: MaG CSL 2 |
 Photo: Gert Stobbe |
 Photo: Vidura Gamini Abhaya |
 Photo: Pamela Amores |
 Photo: Davor |
 Photo: Joanna Ng |
 Photo: Steve Matthews |
 Photo: Simon Skevington |
 Photo: walkingwalking |
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Natural bush in the suburbs |
24 km from Melbourne Melbourne Australia |
The River Yarra winds through the foothills of the town of Warrandyte on its journey to the sea, passing through the Warrandyte State Park. Once mined for gold, the area now attracts Melburnians in their thousands trying to beat the heat in the summer months. Being only 24 kilometres from the city, it is one of the rare natural bush areas that can be found in the metropolitan area.During the gold rush the river was diverted under the mountain at Pound Bend so that the river could be sluiced for gold. Pound Bend, Black Flat and Jumping Creek Reserves offer good nature walks and picnic areas, and you can pick up pamphlets showing points of interest from Warrandyte's community centre (corner of Yarra and Webb Streets). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A lavender farm full of sights and smells |
Quayle Road Melbourne, VIC 3139 Australia +61 3 5964 4650 http://www.warratinalavender.c... |
Grown and harvested in the Yarra Valley is the beautiful, aromatic and medicinal flower, lavender. On the second Sunday in November, there is a festival to celebrate the completion of the lavender harvest, with all proceeds going to the Anti-Cancer Council. Following the harvest until mid-March, the farm is bustling with activity while the drying and stripping of the lavender is completed. The entire farm, including the drying shed, is open for public viewing and education. A variety of fresh and packaged lavender goods are also available for sale. Enjoy a picnic on the grounds. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Omar Jamaludin |
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Bushland oasis in the suburbs |
1012 Riversdale Road Surrey Hills Melbourne, VIC 3127 Australia +61 3 9888 9989 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/ |
Generations of Melbourne children have climbed in, out and over the old trams parked here, rather incongruously, in the bushland setting. They are still a major drawcard of this sprawling park, which also comprises a golf course, tennis courts, barbecues and an oval. At the centre of the park is the charming Wattle Park Chalet, built in the 1920's and often used for receptions. A newer addition is a well-designed and constructed adventure playground. Apart from the odd traffic noises, it is easy to imagine you are in the bush. A kiosk near the golf course sells light snacks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art meets nature |
Mount Dandenong Tourist Road Melbourne, VIC 3767 Australia +61 (0)3 9751 1300 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
This fascinating sanctuary was created by sculptor William Ricketts. Inspired by his travels in Central Australia where he came into contact with the Pitjantjarra and Arrente people, he started to mould ceramic sculptures in the forests around his home depicting the legends of their dreamtime. Today, 92 sculptures are dotted through the undergrowth of the temperate rainforest, often half-buried in ferns or carved out of the earth itself, almost as if they were natural phenomena themselves. The place has a thought-provoking, almost eerie quality. There is a licensed cafe on the premises. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Hill |
 Photo: Chris Holttum |
 Photo: Sean & Jennifer Rich |
 Photo: Sean & Jennifer Rich |
 Photo: Craig Kincaid |
 Photo: Craig Kincaid |
 Photo: www.fototheque.com |
 Photo: Mike Lin |
 Photo: Erling Knudsen |
 Photo: Geoffrey Collins |
 Photo: shantavira |
 Photo: feridanes |
 Photo: John, Fiona, Conner & Brian |