December 2nd, 2025Upgrade for Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens

Daylesford’s Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens have been given a $500,000 upgrade.

The funding for the 150-year-old gardens comes from the state government.
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 re-imagined gardens, new accessible pathways and restoration works on heritage features.
Supporting 10 jobs across various stages of development, 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.
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.
A state government media release said the upgrades were one of several recent government-supported projects designed to help boost Hepburn Shire’s visitor economy, including ongoing works at Bullarto Station and the Djuwang Baring Creswick Mountain Bike Trails.
Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes said unique destinations like Wombat Hill played 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.
Macedon MP and Health Minister Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said people had been drawn to the beauty of Wombat Hill for more than a century.
“It’s wonderful to see that the gardens have been uplifted and made accessible so that current and future generations can continue to visit.”
Pictured, Mary-Anne Thomas, second from right, with Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Contributed & Kyle Barnes (inset)