Due to the pandemic, visiting parks has become increasingly popular. If you’re looking to spend a day out with your loved ones, or even as a solo retreat, Berwick and surrounding suburbs offer some of the most beautiful recreational facilities and parks in the south-east.
1. Wilson Botanic Park Berwick
Open to the public, and offering the best of nature’s beauty, Wilson Botanic Park is the perfect spot to relax with friends and family. With 39 hectares of botanical wonderland at your disposal, there is plenty to learn and discover, with an endless species of plants and birds, as well as other animals to observe. Includes picnic and BBQ areas, among other facilities.
WHERE: 668 Princes Highway, Berwick, Vic 3806
(Pedestrian access via gates at Princes Hwy, Bournevale Drive & Kramar Drive)
WHEN: Non-daylight savings: 7.00am - 6.00pm, Daylight savings: 7.00am - 9.00pm, Visitor Centre: 10.00am - 4.00pm
2. Akoonah Park
Another fantastic spot for a picnic and recreational activities is Akoonah Park, located on the Eastern edge of Berwick. With 11 hectares of land, including an indoor and outdoor market of over 350 stalls, you just won’t run out of things to do here! The Akoonah Park is also the home of major events including the annual Berwick Show. There is even a camping and caravan area with 17 sites available to hire.
WHERE: 2 Cardinia Street, Berwick
WHEN: Park: always open, Caravan Park Reception: 10am – 8pm, Sunday Market: 8am – 1:30pm
3. Berwick Springs Park
For dog walkers and local families, Berwick Springs is a popular place, offering fresh air and picturesque surroundings, there’s plenty to do here. With a range of birdlife, as well as a gorgeous lake to walk or run around, you and your loved ones are set for a perfect day out.
There are no toilets at the park yet, so go before you arrive. The closest is at Eden Rise Shopping Centre, either down the passageway near Spec Savers on the outside, or next to Coles on the inside.
Dogs: Allowed (On Leash Only)
WHEN: Always open
WHERE: Kerbside parking on Springs Promenade and Moondarra Drive
4. Pioneers Park
A boon for the local community, Pioneers Park was developed and built with the help of the locals and other generous citizens. Today, it is an important Berwick landmark, which enables community engagement and a fun-filled atmosphere for families to enjoy. Also located on site is the Primary @ Pioneers Park café and restaurant, which also caters for events and functions.
WHEN: Open 7 days a week 8am - 4pm
WHERE: Corner Peel Street & Lyall Road, Berwick
5. Jells park
For a perfect day trip out with family and friends, look no further than Jells Park in Wheeler’s Hill, offering wide open spaces and happily accommodating for a family fun day. The perfect picnic spot, which also offers BBQ facilities to help you get a feast going. Or for something a little more fancy, book into Madeline’s at Jells, located in the heart of the park and open 7 days for breaky and lunch, where you’ll also get fantastic views to compliment.
WHEN: Madeline’s and Kiosk: Wednesday to Friday – 9 am to 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday – 8 am to 4 pm
WHERE: Waverley Road, Wheelers Hill VIC 3150
Article by Andrew Nguyen
