EXPERIENCE the serenity and beauty of the Dandenong Ranges Gardens this spring.
Melbournians love their gardens in the Dandenong Ranges but many have never experienced their favourite garden.
“Parks Victoria has seven beautiful gardens to explore,” said Parks Victoria Area Chief Ranger Glenn Maskell.
“There are different species of plants flowering and the gardens are very serene and peaceful at this time of year.
“You’re also much more likely to spot wildlife and with fewer visitors around you can usually get a car park right near the entrance.”
Research says that time spent in parks is good for physical, mental, social and spiritual health.
This is at the heart of Parks Victoria’s Healthy Parks, Healthy People approach to managing Victoria’s parks to ensure that everyone can benefit from time spent in nature.
* National Rhododendron Gardens in Olinda is in bloom. The Vireya collection continues to flower throughout the year. The stunning views over the Yarra Valley change from day to day. The newly renovated Cafe Vireya is also open on weekends.
* George Tindale Memorial Gardens in Sherbrooke was designed to look stunning during all four seasons.
* Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is picturesque and lush and visitors may be lucky enough to experience stunning sunsets over the tree tops and should consider bringing a camera to capture the picturesque garden.
* William Ricketts Sanctuary is an outdoor art gallery and cultural landscape featuring more than 90 sculptures that were the life work of artist and environmentalist William Ricketts.
* Pirianda Gardens in Olinda features a beautiful woodland garden containing a unique collection of plants including many trees which are considered rare in Australia as well as magnificent views, tranquil walks and great opportunities for bird watching, photography and picnics.
* R.J. Hamer Arboretum near Olinda contains a tranquil collection of deciduous trees contrasted with early flowering species along walking tracks overlooking stunning scenery across the Yarra Valley and out to the Warburton Ranges and beyond.
* Mount Dandenong Arboretum was established in 1928 and has national significance. It features conifers and deciduous trees from around the world including eight that are listed in the National Trust’s significant tree register.
For more information on the Dandenong Range Gardens call the Parks Victoria Information Centre on 131 963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au.
