Wattle Park

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Wattle Park

Wattle Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.

Look no further than Wattle Park for a great escape within Melbourne's eastern suburbs. With its blend of historic buildings, an all-abilities playscape, picnic grounds, walking tracks and natural bush, this park has something for the whole family. Enjoy exercising along the multi-purpose tracks, including the recently upgraded 3.25km walking and running track that takes visitors on an undulating journey through the park.

Despite its urban surroundings, Wattle Park is a haven for plants and wildlife. Take a stroll along the tracks and bird watch. There are some 50 bird species in the park. Look for birds including the White-faced Heron and Rainbow Lorikeet, or keep your eyes peeled for a Tawny Frogmouth sitting in a tree. Visit the filtration ponds alongside Damper Creek and see ducks and frogs amongst the native rushes. There is also 20 species of butterflies and 60 species of beetles in the park. From late winter through spring the eastern slope comes alive with splashes of colour, as the wildflowers bloom. Native orchids, lilies and grasses are common in the area.

In the warmer months, meet for a picnic or barbecue with friends and family. The expansive playscape offers families of all ages and abilities new ways to get active and have fun in nature. It features play structures including a double-storey tram fort, play domes, swings, spinners, slides and sensory play, which are wheelchair-accessible with assistance. The adjoining picnic area features shelters, electric barbecues and all-abilities pathways and picnic tables, providing the comforts needed for a great day out at the park. One Sunday a month (from October to April), enjoy the sounds of the Melbourne Tramways Band. 

Please note that rubbish bins are not provided in this park; take everything home with you for composting, recycling or disposal. You are welcome to bring your dog to Wattle Park, but it must be kept on a lead during your visit and you need to collect and remove any dog poo. 

 

Master Plan

Parks Victoria has developed a Master Plan for Wattle Park that sets out the long-term vision for Wattle Park. Released today, the Master Plan provides a blueprint for strategic decision-making for the next 20-30 years. View the Master Plan and stay up-to-date  by visiting the Wattle Park Upgrades page.

Things To Do

 
The tram playscape at Wattle Park

All-abilities playscape

The nature-based playscape has been designed to cater for all ages and abilities. It features play structures including a double-storey tram fort, play domes, swings, spinners, slides and sensory play, which are wheelchair-accessible with assistance.

Walking in Wattle Park

All paths and trails within Wattle Park are multi-use. Go for a leisurely stroll, or test your endurance on a run around the upgraded 3.25km track, which will lead you beneath the shade of impressive gum and wattle trees. Bring your four-legged friend, dogs on-lead are welcome in the park.
A family have a barbecue at the Wattle Park picnic area.

Picnic area

The upgraded picnic area features shelters, barbecues and all-abilities pathways and picnic tables, providing the comforts needed for a great day out at the park with family and friends.

The Lone Pine

Overlooking the oval, the Lone Pine was planted in 1933 in remembrance of fallen comrades of the 24th Battalion. One of only four in Victoria, the seed was taken from the original Lone Pine, a solitary tree on the WWI battle fields of Gallipoli.

Wattle Park Chalet

Constructed in 1928, the Chalet was designed to host visitors of the park and was built from decommissioned tram engine houses. The Chalet largely remains in its original form, offering historic charm and features. The Chalet can be booked for events and functions.

Wildlife

This area is home to a variety of birdlife. Keep an eye out for Kookaburras and Musk Lorikeets alongside seasonal visits from Gang-gang and Black Cockatoos.

Crimson Rosella

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.

Find a Licensed Tour Operator

How to get there

Wattle Park

Wattle Park is 13km east of Melbourne CBD. Vehicle access is from Riversdale Rd (Melway 60 J2). Enter by foot from Riversdale Rd, Warrigal Rd, Patterson Ave or Elgar Rd.

When to go

Enjoy the shade of the playground area under the dappled light of the summer sun.

Need to know

Wattle Park

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Wattle Park Picnic Ground (Wattle Park)

    Wattle Park Water Play Area

    The Water play area will be closed until further notice.

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