Join Yarra Riverkeeper Association for the Westgate Park Open Day, organised by Westgate Biodiversity. It's a free, family-friendly event taking place on Sunday September 15, 2024, and is the perfect chance to explore this hidden natural gem in your backyard and enjoy a variety of engaging activities throughout the day.
Enjoy delicious food from the food truck, sausage sizzle and coffee cart, or BYO picnic basket and enjoy a day put in nature with family and friends.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony: Experience the traditional Welcome to Country ceremony at 11am, honouring the land’s heritage and cultural significance.
GARDENING WORKSHOPS (ongoing from 10am – 3pm):
Garden Tool Sharpening Workshop by Port Phillip Men’s Shed: Bring your tools for a professional sharpening lesson.
Wildflower Sales and Free Advice: Connect with experts from Melbourne Pollinator Corridor and Gardens for Wildlife to learn about local flora and purchase wildflowers.
Plant-a-Seed Workshops for Kids: Hosted by Westgate volunteers, these hands-on workshops will let children plant their very own seeds to take home.
RIVERBANK CLEAN UP (1pm – 3pm):
Join Tangaroa Blue Foundation in their efforts to keep waterways clean and healthy. Help remove litter and debris from the riverbank, contributing to local conservation and environmental protection.
ARTS & CRAFTS STATIONS (ongoing from 10am – 3pm):
Clay Workshop by Ursula Dutkiewicz: Unleash your creativity in this hands-on workshop, where you can sculpt and personalize your own clay birds to take home as a keepsake.
Natural Pigments by Elizabeth Milsom: Explore nature and dive into the world of natural art as you explore and create with vibrant, eco-friendly pigments.
TOURS:
Historic Port of Melbourne Tour (midday) - Discover the Riverbank Hidden History through Melbourne’s maritime and industrial heritage on a guided stroll along the Birrarung.
Nature Walk at Westgate Park (2pm): Join us for a guided walk focusing on Coast Banksia and remnant vegetation. Learn about local plant species and their ecological roles.
Back to Bikes Workshop (ongoing from 10am – 3pm):
Learn how to fix your bike with hands-on guidance from Back to Bikes.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES (ongoing from 10am – 3pm):
Scavenger Hunt: Engage in a fun scavenger hunt with prizes, organised by Westgate Volunteers.
Meet Paddy the Platypus: SES brings this beloved character to delight children.
Learn about Land and Regeneration and Conservation Efforts: Discover local conservation projects and land regeneration from ACF, City of Melbourne Junior Rangers, and Melbourne Water.
GETTING THERE:
Punt: Take the punt from Spotswood Jetty directly to the event location.
Biking: Biking to the event is encouraged. Back to Bikes will conduct repair workshops on-site.
Public Transport: Take bus 235 to Wharf Road, then enjoy a short walk through the park to reach the event. Check the bus 235 timetable for specific timings here.
Driving: Lorimer St Entrance: Park on the street near this entrance. Todd Road Entrance: Park at the Westgate Parking lot and cross the park on foot to reach the event.
Find more info here.