Eaglehawk - Canterbury Park Gardens
Canterbury Park Gardens is the centre-piece of the Eaglehawk Open Space Precinct. Visit the garden, walk the trails around Lake Neangar and Lake Tom Thumb, see the amphitheatre, jetty and island, check out the Canterbury Park Oval and Sports Precinct with skate park and the Mulga Bill themed playspace.
First proposed in 1870, the garden was set out in 1873 on 'upside down country', a reference to the gold rush mining days. Much has changed at this site over the years and the garden now sits along side Canterbury Park Oval, Lake Neangar, Lake Tom Thumb and a sports and events precinct.
The central feature of Canterbury Gardens is the iconic ornamental water fountain. Sculptural eagles are a reminder of how Eaglehawk got its name. The gardens are also known for their extensive Dahlia collection and colourful annual displays, palms and roses and the meticulously maintained ornamental gardens.
The meticulously planted ornamental garden beds feature a wide range of heritage era plants combined with more contemporary selections. The original layout featured a symmetrical layout of seven circular and oval beds. Three of these remain in the south-west end of the garden.
Some of the original plantings still remain including palms, pines and the iconic Lebanese Cedar in the centre of the garden. The ornamental iron fence and gates in Sailors Gully Road were a gift from the family of Cr Brown who died before reaching his term of office as mayor. They date from 1912 and were manufactured at Agnews Austral Foundry Eaglehawk.
The gardens have unshaded tables, toilets, water tap and shaded BBQs.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs can be walked in the reserve on a leash.
Review:
Beautiful gardens with a nice mix of trees and garden beds and some interesting historical elements, fountain and sculptures. Not far away is a great playground and skatepark.
Location
3 High Street, Eaglehawk 3556 Map
