Explore
Olinda Golf Course
Located 50km east of Melbourne is the new Olinda Precinct. Set in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, this former golf course has been transformed into 34 hectares of community parklands.
Olinda Precinct is set in beautiful surroundings. This area is famous for towering Mountain Ash forest, the closest you'll find to Melbourne, as well as lush ferns and native grasses. Keep your eyes peeled for the variety of birds and wildlife that call this area home.
This exciting new public space has something for everyone. Kids will love the Nature Playscape, which includes a large sandpit, water pumps, balancing beams, slides, flying foxes, rope courses, trampolines, cubby houses and toadstools. Even better, it's all integrated amongst natural features including rocks and native vegetation. From this elevated position, you can also enjoy spectacular views over Silvan Reservoir.
Several local artists have contributed to the playscape's design, providing unique links with the nature and community surrounding it. As you explore, you'll find many sculptures and carvings including wombats, owls, echidnas and a giant gecko. A special addition to the playspace is mosaic artwork created by local school kids.
Why not enjoy a picnic in the new picnic area? There are barbecues, a water fountain, picnic facilities, shelters, seating and a new toilet block.
Let your dog run off-lead on the former golf course, or enjoy walking together on the trail that loops around it. Check the map for on-and-off-lead areas.
Olinda Precinct also has plenty of space for the community to enjoy. Olinda Green is an adaptable open space for community events and markets. Community sports teams will love the new sports oval and netball court, as well as the upgraded cricket nets.
Things to do in the area
Olinda Precinct Nature Playscape
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
RJ Hamer Arboretum
Pirianda Garden
Olinda Precinct
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
How to get there
Olinda Golf Course
Located 50km east of Melbourne, the former Olinda Golf Course is situated at 75-77 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, just 700m out of the township of Olinda.
There is limited informal parking available on site. Additional parking is available next door at the Olinda Recreation Reserve, and close by at the Olinda Swimming Pool and Community House.
When you're there
Dogs are permitted in most of the park but must be kept on a lead at all times (except within the designated dog off-lead area). Dogs are not permitted within the Olinda Playspace (playground). When exercising your dog in the off-lead area, dog owners must:
- remain within voice or hand control of your dog at all times and ensure your dog is within sight
- stop your dog from being a nuisance, or aggressive towards other dogs, people or wildlife
- clean up after your dog and take all rubbish home
- always carry a lead and use it if necessary
- bring a friend if you wish to walk more than two dogs.
The attached map identifies the official dog off-lead zone.