A stunning new native garden has arrived at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden. Known as the Chelsea Australian Garden, this dreamy space features over 15,000 plants from 400 different Australian species. Wander through the garden and admire a 9-metre-tall Waratah sculpture, a cascading waterfall and a peaceful billabong. The garden is open every day from 10am, with last entry at 4:30pm.
Chelsea Australian Garden
This natural haven had its beginnings in 2013, when Phillip Johnson, Wes Fleming and the Trailfinders team became the first Australians to win at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show. Their ‘Australian Garden’ display was unanimously voted as ‘Best in Show’ by judges, and toured by the Queen and Prince Harry. Now, the design has been recreated in Olinda, and this new wonderland has grown to 20 times the size of the original.
The new botanic garden has transformed an unused grassy section of the former Olinda Golf Course, providing more native habitat for plants and animals. It features rare and endangered plant species, like the Wollemi Pine, and provides a space for visitors to connect with Australian nature. It also uses a sustainable and water-wise design, with an integrated bushfire protection system, solar power and recycled or reclaimed materials.
Chelsea Australian Garden is roughly 600 metres from the entrance of the Botanic Garden. Journey along the pathways and listen to the sounds of singing frogs and birds. Look out for buzzing bees, flying butterflies and other precious pollinators. Bring a picnic, and settle in on the spacious lawn for a peaceful day out.
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