Birrarrung Park (Templestowe Lower)

Situated at the confluence of the Plenty and Yarra Rivers, this 33 hectare park was in
important meeting place for the Wurundjeri people. Birrarrung Park is a significant recreation space within the parks along the Yarra River, incorporating two large ephemeral wetlands.

Facilities and Activities

Several wood barbecues (wood is provided), picnic tables and shelters are available in the park. Fires are permitted only in the barbecues provided, and you are welcome to bring your own small gas barbecue. The toilet block at Birrarrung Park is wheelchair accessible. An adventure playground is available for children. There are 2.8 kilometres of flat sealed trails are suitable for skating, cycling and walking.

History

The name 'Birrarrung' is derived from an Aboriginal name for the Yarra River; 'Bay-rayrung' meaning 'river of mists'. Stone chips, flakes and an axe head found in the park are remnants of large gatherings of the local Aboriginal people, the Wurundjeri. Because of the constant threat of flooding, residential and industrial development did not occur at this location.

The predominant former land use was 'small-scale' cattle grazing and horse agistment as well as seed farming. The park was opened to the public in 1984.

Flora and Fauna

This area of parkland is primarily classified as 'Riparian Floodplain Woodland' that features River Red Gum and wetlands. The wetlands at Birrarrung provide habitat for a variety of birdlife and also frogs. As part of the natural cycle, wetlands occasionally dry out completely and the wildlife disperses temporarily.

Rare birds, such as the Australasian Bittern have been seen at Birrarrung. Kookaburras and Boobook Owls are regularly seen in the park.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs are permitted in the park but must remain on a leash at all times.

Access to the Park

Pedestrian and cyclist access is available at all times. Vehicle entry is available from Templestowe Road, Bulleen. Car park gates are open 6am to 6pm, extending to 9pm during daylight savings.

Review:

Near the entrance to the 33 hectare Birrarung Park is a playground, wood BBQ, water tap (without bowl) and shelter with tables. The road into the park continues past the playground and forms a loop where there is a large shelter with tables, information panel, toilets, water tap and wood BBQs.

There is an asphalt walking track above the banks of the Yarra River which is far below. Dirt tracks lead off the asphalt path at various points and weave through the longish grass and bushes. In total there are 2.8 kilometres of flat sealed trails which are suitable for walking.

There is a wetlands area but in drier months this tends to dry up.

Generally there was a lack of signage along the paths so it is not ideal for someone with a poor sense of direction. Also bins are not provided.

In summer you need to be careful about the possibility of meeting a snake. When we were knee deep in grass on a narrow gravel path we were starting to regret the detour we took.

Photos:

Location

Cnr Templestowe Rd and Sheahans Rd, Templestowe Lower 3107 Map

Web Links

→ Birrarung Park - Yarra Valley Parklands (Parks Victoria)

→ Birrarung Park - Park Notes (PDF)