Where Ancient Land Meets Modern Conservation
The Trees We Need -
A Living Legacy for Future Generations
Brought to you in collaboration with a team of experts
Connection to Country
Ancient Beginnings, Modern Vision
“Then there was the Dreamtime – a reality before time and the source of Australia’s birth.
This ancient land, shaped by volcanic eruptions over millions of years, has been home to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people for tens of thousands of years.
Today, we honour this sacred heritage whilst creating a celebrated Eucalyptus conservation sanctuary that will be renowned throughout Australia for future generations.”
Drawing from the Dreamtime narrative and geological significance.
Land formed by ancient volcanic activity on the Great Victorian lava plain
Sacred country of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people
Rich history from Indigenous stewardship to European settlement
12 months of consultation with Wurundjeri elders to protect significant sites
Donation of this Land has been committed to create this public legacy
A Decade of Restoration Excellence
Transforming neglected land into a Eucalypt Conservation Sanctuary
Since acquiring this neglected land in 2013, extensive restoration has transformed 62 hectares into a thriving green landscape ready to become Victoria’s largest eucalyptus collection.
Recognition & Awards
Queen’s Canopy Award and Heidelberg Hansons Environmental Award
Massive site rehabilitation
Removal of industrial waste and noxious weeds, soil restoration, fire damage recovery
Expert-guided restoration
12+ years of intensive land management and revegetation
International collaboration
Partnerships with leading botanical institutions worldwide
Community leadership
4th generation farming family’s commitment to environmental legacy
Transformation Over Time
Initial Possession
Fire damage
Re-vegetated Land
Initial Possession
Fire damage
Re-vegetated Land
Initial Possession
Fire damage
Re-vegetated Land
Global practice, Local Impact
Drawing insights from World's Leading Conservation Institutions
Strong connections with the global botanic gardens community, with established relationships across Australia, North America, and internationally. Our vision is supported by the world’s leading conservation scientists and institutions.
Accomplished in collaboration with recognised experts:
The Conservation Imperative
Australia's Trees Are Disappearing - We're Fighting Back
150 Years of Forest Loss
Centuries of clearing have stripped Victoria of much of its native forest cover.
Ongoing Deforestation Today
Despite growing awareness, forest destruction has accelerated in the last 15 years.
Unique Eucalyptus Heritage
Nearly all eucalyptus species grow naturally only in Australia, making them globally irreplaceable.
Habitat Loss Endangers Wildlife
Shrinking forests put countless native species at risk of extinction.
Our Response
hectares of thoughtfully restored and reimagined natural landscape, providing space for exploration, education, and regeneration
distinct ecosystems brought together in one place, showcasing the richness of Australia’s natural environments
native species chosen for their ecological importance and ability to thrive, supporting a biodiverse and resilient environment
Our Goal
25,000+
Eucalypts
Join the Melbourne Arboretum Community
Be Part an Iconic Conservation Initiative
Join a movement that unites science, community, and nature to protect Australia’s living treasures. Together, we can create a legacy that lasts for generations.
Why become a friend of The Melbourne Arboretum
Conservation Impact
- Preserve endangered eucalyptus species for future generation
- Create vital habitat for native wildlife
- Demonstrate climate-positive land management
- Support Indigenous land acknowledgment and protection
Long-term Value
- Be part of an important and unique conservation project
- Support Queen's Canopy Award-winning initiative
- Join global network of leading botanical institutions
- Contribute to permanent environmental legacy through donated land
Leadership
- Alignment with genuine environmental stewardship
- Recognition alongside world-class conservation partners
- Association with award-winning restoration projects
- Long-term legacy through permanent land donation
Stay Connected
Your Journey Starts Here
Follow our progress from farmland to forest. Get regular updates on plantings, research discoveries, wildlife returns, and community events.
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Ready for Transformation
The Foundation Is Set
- The Vision Awaits
After 12+ years of intensive restoration work, this once-degraded land now stands as a green sanctuary ready for its next chapter.
With expert guidance from the global botanic gardens community and recognition through prestigious awards, The Melbourne Arboretum represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create Australia’s premier eucalyptus conservation facility.
Current Status
Land Fully Restored
The site has been fully rehabilitated, with native ecosystems successfully re-established.
Global Expert Partnerships
Partnerships with leading conservation institutions have been established and are actively guiding the project.
Indigenous Consultation
Extensive consultation with local communities and Indigenous custodians is well underway and continuing
Awards & Recognition
The project has received multiple awards in recognition of its conservation achievements.
Land Committed for Donation
62 hectares of land is committed to be donated to the community to ensure its protection for future generations.
Expert Testimonials
What Experts Say
A decade of work has proven how local action can deliver global impact. A remarkable achievement.
Prof. Daniel Wong
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
A decade of work has proven how local action can deliver global impact. A remarkable achievement.
Prof. Daniel Wong
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
A decade of work has proven how local action can deliver global impact. A remarkable achievement.
Prof. Daniel Wong
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
What's Next
Join Us in Shaping the Future
Seeking visionary partners to help realize this conservation dream
Building support for one of Australia’s most celebrated eucalyptus preservation project
Creating a living legacy that will benefit generations
