Herring Island Environmental Sculpture Park

Accessible only by boat, Herring Island, 3.2 hectares in size, is just 3 km from the city, and the only substantial island in the Yarra River. This informal parkland has provided the inspiration for curator Maudie Palmer to develop a concept in which artists are commissioned to create site-specific sculptures. Created from natural materials such as stone, earth and wood, the sculptures appear as part of the landscape to reflect the Island's unique and tranquil setting. In particular, different types of stone have been brought from various locations to the island. Things to do The Sculpture Park Internationally renowned British environmental artist Andy Goldsworthy has created two works - a slate Cairn and a Stone House constructed from Dunkeld sandstone. Four Australian artists have also installed works on Herring Island: John Davis - A Hill, a River, Two Rocks and a Presence, Jill Peck - Steerage, Julie Collins - Audience, Robert James - The Ramp and Torres Strait Islander, Ellen Jose - Tanderrum. Native Wild Garden Melbourne horticulturist Iain Shears has designed a Native Wild Garden using patterns and species which occur naturally in temperate grasslands in Victoria. The wild garden starts flowering in early spring. Herring Island Gallery With the assistance of The Sidney Myer Fund and the renowned Melbourne based architect Gregory Burgess, the existing 20 year old Scout Hall on the island was renovated and transformed into the Herring Island Gallery. The architect has sensitively integrated this gallery and its walled court yard with the sculptures and native plantings. To access the island, a punt operates on nominated weekends and public holidays. Check the Parks Victoria website for details. For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.