Queens Park, Moonee Ponds

Location

Queens Park is located in Moonee Ponds, bound by the following roads: Mount Alexander Road, The Strand, Pascoe Vale Road, Kellaway Avenue.

History

Following the discovery of gold in Victoria in 1851, travellers heading for the goldfields met here because fresh water was available in the lagoon. On 20 August 1860, the Burke and Wills expedition camped here on their fateful journey to cross Australia.

In 1865, Baron Ferdinand Von Mueller (Director of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens) sent 250 specimens to Essendon Borough council, many of which were planted at Queens Park.

Description

A picturesque cottage is the focal point of the park with its idyllic surrounds and public art pieces. A sealed path surrounds the lake where seats, and picnic tables are provided beneath old established native and exotic trees, with the lake a haven for a variety of birds. A tropical garden, sunken garden and native gardens are some of the many attractions of the park. Concerts and other entertainments are common on weekends.

Botanic collection

The park boasts an extensive botanic collection, including established Moreton Bay figs, bunya pines and hoop pines. It also features a cycad collection, several native/indigenous gardens, seasonal annual displays, and an Asian-styled garden.

Facilities within the park

• Moonee Ponds Bowling Club
• Queens Park Pool
• Queens Park Curator's Cottage Cafe

File:Fountain in Queens Park in Moonee Ponds, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.jpg|The fountain in Queens Park File:Queens Lake.jpg|Queens Lake File:Queens Park, Moonee Ponds.jpg|A grassy area beside Pascoe Vale Road

References

References

1. [https://mvcc.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Queens-Park-Master-Plan-Report_Lowres_20080917.pdf Queens Park Master Plan Report] City of Moonee Valley
2. [http://www.mooneepondsbowls.com.au Moonee Ponds Bowling Club]
3. [http://www.queensparkpool.com.au Queens Park Swimming Pool]
4. [http://www.curatorscollective.com Curators Collective]