Beneath the canopy of elm trees at Fitzroy Gardens, a secret lies hidden in plain sight. These majestic avenues, planted in the 1800s, unintentionally mirror the design of the Union Jack. Fitzroy Gardens, established in 1848, stands as a testament to Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s garden city. Originally a swampy area, it was transformed by Clement Hodgkinson and James Sinclair into a lush woodland. Fitzroy Gardens was named after Sir Charles Augustus FitzRoy, a governor of New South Wales. The Gardens boast a rich history, reflected in its diverse features. Cooks’ Cottage, shipped from England, was once home to Captain James Cook’s parents. A scarred tree serves as a poignant reminder of the Wurundjeri people, the original inhabitants of this land. The plaque beneath it tells of how they used its bark for canoes, shields, and other essentials. For children and the young at heart, the Fairies’ Tree, carved by Ola Cohn, offers a whimsical escape. The Gardens are more than just history. They’re alive with the sounds of brushtail and ringtail possums, rainbow lorikeets, and microbats. At night, grey-headed flying foxes and powerful owls add to the magical atmosphere. Fitzroy Gardens continues to evolve. In 2014, a former depot was repurposed into a visitor center and cafe, complete with a stormwater harvesting system. This vibrant green space in the heart of Melbourne offers a tranquil escape, a journey through time, and a celebration of nature’s beauty. Come, lose yourself in the enchanting embrace of Fitzroy Gardens.
Kororoit Creek
Is this where the river meets the sea? This is Kororoit Creek. It flows right here through Melbourne’s western suburbs