150-YEAR-OLD DAYLESFORD BOTANICAL GARDENS UPGRADED

The Allan Labor Government is supporting Daylesford’s 150-year-old botanic gardens as it enters a new chapter, following upgrades that will draw more visitors and boost the local economy.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas today represented Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes at Wombat Hill to officially open the upgraded gardens, thanks to a $500,000 Labor Government investment.

The heritage-listed gardens in the centre of Daylesford are one of several locations developed during the Gold Rush. They remain a popular visitor destination, showcasing the unique history of the Central Highlands, and will benefit from reimagined gardens, new accessible pathways and restoration works on heritage features.

Supporting 10 jobs across various stages of development, works included restoration of the central water basin to re-establish it as the venue’s centrepiece, as well as refurbishment of the conservatory to allow for art displays.

People of all ages and abilities can now enjoy the gardens, thanks to accessibility upgrades to the network of pathways that will better guide visitors to key areas of Wombat Hill and encourage people to explore the area.

The upgrades are one of several recent government-supported projects designed to help boost Hepburn Shire’s visitor economy, such as ongoing works at Bullarto Station to recreate the historic location, providing visitors with a window into the past and attracting more people to the Daylesford Spa Country Railway.

The Djuwang Baring Creswick Mountain Bike Trails continue to draw riders from across Victoria and beyond to experience the thrills of 60 kilometres of trails that guide riders through the heart of Dja Dja Wurrung Country.

These projects are part of our record investment of more than $47 billion in just over the last decade to ensure that our regional cities and towns are even better places to live, work and visit.

For more info visit rdv.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes
“We know that unique destinations like Wombat Hill play an important role in attracting visitors and boosting our regional economy – I'm happy to see that the botanic gardens will continue to play this role for years to come.”

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
“People have been drawn to the beauty of Wombat Hill for more than a century, and it’s wonderful to see that the gardens have been uplifted and made accessible so that current and future generations can continue to visit.”

Quote attributable to Mayor of Hepburn Shire Council, Cr Tony Clark
“As one of the Shire’s most popular destinations for both locals and visitors, the project reflects a strong partnership between Regional Development Victoria, the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, and Council.”