Woodlands Historic Park

Woodlands Historic Park gives visitors a fascinating glimpse of the landscape seen by settlers in the 1840s. First established as a public park in 1980, Woodlands Historic Park now totals over 700 ha. It contains significant cultural and natural values which have endured many of the changes resulting from Melbourne's urban spread. Things to see and do * Visit Woodlands Homestead. Hosts will provide interesting accounts of its many owners over the years. * Enjoy a picnic among the magnificent River Red Gum trees at the Somerton Road picnic area. * Explore the 1.5 km Moonee Ponds Creek Nature Walk. * Wander through the fenced 'Back Paddock' and see kangaroos, birds and other wildlife. * Walk up Gellibrand Hill. Explore the granite boulders and enjoy panoramic views. * Find out more about guided walks, spotlight strolls and more. * Sign up with the Friends of Woodlands Historic Park Inc. and assist on a variety of projects. * Jog or ride a bike or horse along the tracks. * View kangaroos in their natural surroundings. Heritage Scarred trees and surface tool scatters are evidence of the Woiworung people, who lived in the area before Europeans arrived. The descendants of the Woiworung still retain a close identity with the land around Melbourne. The historic Woodlands Homestead complex is important because it is a rare example of an early prefabricated building and for its association with the pioneering families of the Port Phillip District. Magnolias at the Homestead are the oldest recorded garden plants in Victoria. Woodlands Homestead and its outbuildings and gardens were extensively restored in 1983 and 1984 under Federal, State and Local Government programs. 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.