November 25th, 2025More welcoming experience for visitors to Smythsdale Gardens

Upgrades to Smythesdale Gardens mean a more welcoming experience for visitors and better connections to local businesses – as well as a stronger sense of Wadawurrung culture.

The completion of the project comes in time for summer camping at the popular spot, made possible by a $100,000 grant from the Council Support Package.

Widely considered one of the Central Highlands’ best camping sites, Smythesdale Gardens is located on the 53-kilometre Skipton to Ballarat Trail, drawing visitors to the town of just over 1000 residents.

Delivered by local contractors, the upgrades will ensure better drainage across and include street furniture to make the area more comfortable, as well as installed wayfinding signage.

New signage will guide visitors to local businesses and sportsgrounds, helping drive tourism spending in Smythesdale and encouraging people to take advantage of nearby sport and active recreation opportunities.

Created in consultation with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, the signs also feature information about the region and its rich cultural history, creating a stronger sense of place and awareness of Country for visitors.

Smythesdale Gardens is one of 27 projects across regional Victoria to share in funding from the Council Support Package. Designed to help councils deliver more tourism, sporting and cultural opportunities for their communities, the fund is helping to deliver lasting benefits for regional cities and towns.

For more info visit rdv.vic.gov.au.