SERENDIP Sanctuary’s sensory garden was officially opened this week.
The garden, which has been open to visitors since spring, was developed with community and accessibility groups to create a space where visitors can experience nature through sight, smell, sound, taste and touch.
The garden is divided into five distinctive areas, each representing one of the senses, and features a yarning circle co-designed with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
Wide paths, accessible seating and navigation features have been installed to allow schools, families and all-abilities groups to use the space, while brightly coloured artworks by Wadawurrung artist Jenna Oldaker appear throughout the garden.
The display pond, which was restored last year, is now home to frogs, turtles and birds.
Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the garden would make the sanctuary more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
“We want every Victorian to be able to access great outdoor spaces and the sensory garden is a perfect example of how we are investing in accessible parks,” he said.
The project forms part of the state government’s $11 million investment into Serendip Sanctuary and the nearby You Yangs precinct, with upgrades to wildlife viewing areas, picnic areas and car parks scheduled to take place this year.
Lara MP Ella George said attention had now turned to implementing these other improvements at the sanctuary.
“Serendip Sanctuary is a special place for local residents, and I am thrilled to see upgrades progressing well and the sanctuary being transformed,” she said.
“Over the coming months, we will see more upgrades to the wildlife viewing areas and habitat improvements to attract even more free roaming wildlife to this beautiful sanctuary.”
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