Fancy seeing kangaroos in the wild? There are quite a few places that one may visit, according to Google. However, we chose to go to the Woodlands Historic Park one weekend as it is the nearest to the Melbourne CBD, just about an hour’s drive away.
The drive there was an easy one. A h-u-g-e parking facility greeted us when we arrived. There are many informational signposts within the park which show you where to go.
Parks Victoria website says “Spend an easy our on the Murrup Gurrong Yan (Spiritual Creek Walk) circuit, or walk along the billabongs of the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail. Tackle the Gellibrand Hill Walk for spectacular 360-degree views of the city, the bay, the Great Dividing Range and Melbourne Airport.”
We think we did all the trails but can’t really be sure. Initially, we opted to head for the Homestead. We thought “With a bit luck, maybe get to see some kangaroos along the way.”
We felt safe on the trail as there were many visitors there that morning. We would recommend that you bring along a hat and drinks for the walk. The scenery is one of gum trees (many gum trees!), shrubs and the odd gurgling creek.
It was enjoyable for sure as being “one with nature” has a calming effect on the soul.
When we finally saw a family (a herd?) of kangaroos basking in the sun, the sight was something to behold. I bet ’cha they saw, heard and smelt us long before we spotted them!
Homestead in Woodlands Historic Park
The homestead located in Woodlands Historic Park was one of Australia’s first kit-houses: a prefabricated timber house brought from Britain in the 1840s. It didn’t seem impressive to us at the time of our visit but on further reflection, we realise that in the era before Ikea existed, pre-fabricated kit-houses were very much a concept ahead of their time.
Other Things To See & Do at Woodlands Historic Park
For cyclists, there are plenty of cycling trails which criss-cross the park, although we didn’t bump into any during our visit.
For birdwatchers, it’s worth noting that wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons have been spotted here, along with red-rumped parrots and superb fairy wrens.
For horse lovers, in front of the homestead, you can get up close to the Living Legends, which are retired champion racehorses. You can have the opportunity, via guided tours, to have one-on-one experiences with these horses, where you can pat and feed them, and of course, take plenty of photos!
Picnic Area in Woodlands Historic Park
If you’re into BBQ and picnics, you would be happy to note that Somerton Road Picnic Area is located near the carpark. Electric barbecues, tables and toilets are available amongst magnificent River Red Gums.
Our Thoughts About Woodlands Historic Park
The time spent in the meandering trail was well worth it. It’s rather similar in experience to Serendip Sanctuary in Lara which we visited many years ago.
It’s worth noting that kangaroos are wild animals. Although these kangaros are rather used to human visitors in their habitat, being cautious around them is a given. We picked up a couple of sturdy tree branches to use as walking sticks to steady ourselves on uneven ground during the walk. But the branches also had the dual purpose of self-defence in the event of a kangaraoo attack. Thankfully, they kept their distance from us, and so did we. So it was a very safe, uneventful walk through the park.
Feeling hungry thereafter, we drove straight to Flemington to have laksa noodles (but of course!).
😊
