Daylesford’s 150-year-old botanic gardens has entered a new chapter following a $500,000 upgrade to the facility.
Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas represented Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes at Wombat Hill yesterday to officially open the upgraded gardens.
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.
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.
“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,” said Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Tony Clark.
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.
“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,” said Minister Symes.
“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,” said Minister Thomas.
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.
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