William Ricketts Sanctuary (William Ricketts Sanctuary)

This area has additional visitor advice This area has reported issues This area is closed

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William Ricketts Sanctuary (William Ricketts Sanctuary)

How to get there

William Ricketts Sanctuary (William Ricketts Sanctuary)

William Ricketts Sanctuary (William Ricketts Sanctuary)

Need to know

William Ricketts Sanctuary (William Ricketts Sanctuary)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No vehicles
  • Restricted opening hours
  • Management vehicle only
  • No dogs allowed
  • No fires permitted
  • No horses
  • No bicycles

Warnings

  • Other warnings
    • Limbs may fall take care

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

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.

William Ricketts Sanctuary - Temporary Closure

William Ricketts Sanctuary was extensively damaged by a cyclogenesis storm event in June 2021. Many sculptures, buildings, pathways, and handrails were destroyed by numerous large fallen Mountain Ash trees.
 
Our highest priority is public and staff safety, and this site remains too dangerous for the public to enter. Works are continuing to make the Sanctuary safe for Parks Victoria and its contractors to continue the recovery process.
 
Recovery works are continuing at William Ricketts Sanctuary (following the storm), and they include the removal of large fallen and hazardous trees, perimeter fencing repairs, underground utility service reconnections and other important building, asset and facility works (including repairs to or removal of damaged buildings, retaining walls and associated infrastructure). Recovery works for William Ricketts Sanctuary are funded through insurance.

Parks Victoria is pleased to reopen William Ricketts Sanctuary on Monday 3 August 2026. This is the first stage of opening the sanctuary.

What you see now is the first stage of reopening, and Parks Victoria is pleased to welcome back visitors while we continue the works. The sanctuary may look a little different due to the storm, but the site continues to be a beautiful and fascinating place to explore.

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