The Westerfolds Park is a native bushland park situated on the outskirts of Eastern Melbourne in Templestowe.
The nature parkland provides plenty of open spaces for fun family bicycle rides beside the Yarra River.
Free gas BBQ's and excellent children's playgrounds, makes this the perfect place to visit any time of the year.
Whether it be walking, riding or just plain relaxing, this naturally treed area will provide everything you require for that perfect family getaway.
In 1978 Parks Victoria took over the management and conservation of the parklands providing great nature activities for children with bicycle rides and unique bush walks.
There are gates on Porter Street and Fitzsimmons Lane for vehicle access. Walkers and cyclists can access the park at anytime.
Check out Metlink Buses as they will drop you at or near Porter Street and Fitzsimmons Lane entrances.
Once you are there check this map out for what is around.
The Park consists of...
Manor House, still stands on the grounds of Westerfolds Park and it used to be the home of the Mia Mia Gallery where you were once able to explore aboriginal art and culture. Unfortunately the Gallery and coffee shop are no longer open.
"Have you ever found that one of those impromptu last minute short breaks can reward you with an amazing unforgettable experience?
I had decided to finally explore that intriguing turnoff on Fitzsimmons Lane.
Winding through the well laid out and signed roadways we finally found our way to The Manor House and there we met the aboriginal musician Gnarnayarrahe Waitairie.
We arrived just in time to hear the Dreamtime Story of the Emu and witness the playing of the didgeridoo, a musical instrument Australian Aborigines make from a long wooden tube that is blown into to create a low drone.
Gnarnayarrahe Waitairie invited spectators to lie on the ground to experience an Aboriginal Dreamtime Meditation.
The Poppit's arm shot up immediately, not a shy kid that one and she lay in front of the didgeridoo and was transported into Dreamtime Country.
Little different sounds resonated out from the long hollow instrument, sounds like kookaburras and other Australian Fauna.
What a magical experience for a 7 year old."
Marylyn (Family Getaways Melbourne)
Westerfolds Park forms part of the main Yarra River Trail.
Walks and bike rides along the side of the Yarra River can be enjoyed by all ages all the way through to the Melbourne CBD.
Take the family dog along on a lead as this park is great for a workout for your four legged friend. Viewing platforms along the river provide the perfect place to take in the river and the rapids.
Take in the native vegetation including ancient red gums and wildlife such as echidnas, platypus and the eastern grey kangaroos grazing the open grasslands.
Westerfolds Parkland is a great place for one of those family reunion ideas.
BBQ's and shelters are scattered throughout the parklands
However, get there early and claim your spot as the park is a very popular destination for family getaways.
It's also an excellent park to observe native birds and Australian wildlife in their natural environment.
And if you are into doing something with a thrilling aspect, why not drop your canoe or kayak into the river and paddle up or down this great waterway.
For information on canoeing the Yarra River check out the Paddle Victoria website.
The park is open 7 days a week including Public Holidays from 8:30am - 5:00pm
During Daylight Saving time from 8:30am - 8:00pm and during the peak summer months till 9:00pm
Such a beautiful place to explore any time of the year.
I managed to capture this image wandering the banks of the Yarra River in Westerfolds Park. An amazing place to explore just on the outskirts of Melbourne. Using the photo editor 'Fotosketcher' I was able to produce a unique watercolour effect for this poster. I think it adds to the character of the product and would make a great selection for the home, office or even the school classrooom.
Not to mention a wonderful souvenir to send overseas or keep for yourself. This poster is one in the series on Landscapes and Nature and I am certain that you will enjoy the others in the series to add to your collection.
The Kookaburras are terrestrial tree kingfishers native to Australia and New Guinea. The kookaburra's loud call sounds like echoing human laughter. They are found in habitats ranging from humid forest to arid savanna, as well as in suburban areas with tall trees or near running water. Often heard 'laughing' as you wander the Westerfolds Park trails.
This photo has been enhanced and edited using Fotosketcher to resemble a watercolor painting.
Media: Kodak Professional Photo Paper (Satin)
Developed specifically for darkroom printing, Kodak photographic paper is a premium silver-halide paper designed to dramatically enhance colors, while maintaining consistent tonal reproduction.
Custom (52.97cm x 39.66cm)
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