Have you ever wondered how a once-busy dairy farm transformed into a tranquil haven for nature and recreation? Westerfolds Park is a special place, a verdant sanctuary nestled along the banks of the Yarra River in Templestowe, a suburb of Melbourne. Since opening in 1977, Westerfolds Park has evolved from the remnants of a dairy farm, now a haven for families, cyclists and walkers.
Imagine yourself strolling along the network of bitumen and gravel paths that wind through the park. The grassy woodlands, dotted with towering Red Gums and Manna Gums, offer a welcome respite from the bustling city. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife – Eastern Grey Kangaroos often graze in the open grasslands. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a wombat, sugar glider, possum, echidna or snake. Westerfolds Park is a haven for many birds, too. While enjoying a picnic, keep an eye out for the rare Swift Parrot, a colourful bird that plays a key role in controlling insect populations.
The Manor House, a relic of the park’s past, stands atop a hill. It was once home to the Mia Mia Gallery and Cafe, showcasing Indigenous Australian art and culture, but it’s now vacant and awaiting a new purpose. Though the manor is no longer home to Mia Mia, the spirit of the past still lingers. The park’s rich history is evident in the stories etched into its landscape, a testament to its transformation from farmland to a vibrant community hub. Westerfolds Park is more than just a park; it’s a portal to the past, an oasis for nature lovers and a place where the city melts away.