Fawkner Park (South Yarra)
.jpg "Fawkner Park (South Yarra)")
The 41 hectares of Fawkner Park was first reserved in 1862 and the park was named after Melbourne's co-founder, John Pascoe Fawkner.
Fawkner Park remains largely unchanged from its original design of 1875 with formal pathways, avenues and lawns. The park also features Art Deco sporting pavilions, sports fields, and paths lined with Moreton Bay figs, elms, poplars and oaks.
Fawkner Park extends from Toorak Road in the north to Commercial Road in the south. This area was a camping ground for local Aboriginal groups, and it continues to be an important place for current Traditional Custodians.
This park has a big sporting history - in 1862 almost every popular sporting activity was held here. Summer weekend cricket matches have an English 'village green' atmosphere, with spectators making use of the free on-site barbecues and picnic areas.
During World War II, an area of Fawkner Park was used by the Defence Department. Current softball competitions are an enduring link to wartime activity and the presence of American servicemen. After the war, the buildings were converted to a transit camp for migrants which closed in 1955.
Facilities in the Park
Facilities include playgrounds (3x), picnic facilities, barbecues, seats, drinking fountains, public toilets (3) and sports grounds.
Things to do
- Visit three different children's playgrounds - main playground on the east side, North East playground and toddler playground.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the park and admire the flowers along the western shrub bed.
- Or be more active by joining one of the many sporting clubs or watching weekend sporting matches, including quidditch!
- Have a barbecue or picnic beneath one of the large shady trees.
- Let your dog enjoy a run off-leash in the designated off-leash areas.
- Play tennis at the Fawkner Park Tennis Centre and afterwards enjoy a coffee in the adjacent cafe.
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Location
24-88 Commercial Road, South Yarra 3141 Map
