Background

Boasting a rich history, the Yarraville Gardens Precinct (the Gardens) is the earliest, intact public reserve in our municipality - pre-dating Footscray Park as a major recreational precinct.

The recreational area, covering just under eight hectares, encompasses Yarraville Gardens, Barbara Beyer Reserve, Cuming Reserve, and Hanmer Reserve, with the Yarraville Tennis Reserve adjacent.

Originally designated for a botanical garden in 1859 it was only in 1906 that the area started to be developed when prominent industrialist, and philanthropist, James Cuming, a former Mayor, offered to pay to develop around half an acre (0.2 of a hectare) of ornamental gardens. Cuming Reserve, as this area became known, now hosts a statue in his memory.

The Precinct includes pathways that evolved from the early 20th century linking key areas. Over time gravel paths were replaced by asphalt surfaces, but the historic rock edges have mostly survived.

How to get involved

As we look to the future, we're starting a conversation to see how we can enhance and improve the Precinct so residents can continue to enjoy this space for years to come.

Your feedback will help shape the development of a draft Master Plan.

We're turning the existing toilet block at the Gardens into the first ever 'Changing Places Facility' in our municipality.

Changing Places facilities are larger than standard accessible toilets with extra features and more space to meet the needs of people with disability and their carers.

You can view the Concept Design by clicking on the 'We're upgrading the toilet block' button on this page.