DOMAIN PARKLANDS MASTER PLAN 2018 - Amazon AWS
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DOMAIN PARKLANDS MASTER PLAN
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The Domain Parklands Master plan encompasses areas managed by five different Land Managers. It seeks to recognise the
individual and unique destinations while also strengthening the parklands as one Domain.
Each of the Land Managers has responsibility for the areas they manage. The Shrine of Remembrance and Melbourne Gardens
have landscape master plans for the areas they manage. While this Domain Parklands Master Plan focuses on the areas managed
by the City of Melbourne, it also guides management for the areas of common interest for all the Land Managers. Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 1
DRAFT 09.08.2018
FT A R D A CITY THAT CARES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Environmental sustainability is the basis of all Future Melbourne goals. It requires current generations to choose how they meet their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to be able to do the same. Womin-je-ka (Welcome) The City of Melbourne respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, the Kulin Nation. For the Woiwurrung (Wurundjeri), Boonwurrung, Taungurong, Dja Dja Wurrung and the Wathaurong groups who form the Kulin Nation, Melbourne has always been an important meeting place for events of social, educational, sporting and cultural significance. Today we are proud to say that Melbourne is a significant gathering place for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 2 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/domainparklands DRAFT 09.08.2018
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CONTENTS
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A City that cares for its Environment 2 3.3 A parkland for people 19
A City for People 2 3.4 A parkland that connects 19
A City with an Aboriginal Focus 2 3.5 A parkland of partnerships 19
1. Overview 5 4. Themes 21
1.1 Why do we need a master plan? 6 4.1 Nurture a diverse landscape and parkland ecology 21
1.2 Vision 7 4.2 Acknowledge history and cultural heritage 22
1.3 Domain Parklands Master Plan Snapshot 8 4.3 Support exceptional visitor experience 25
1.4 Preparation of the master plan 9 4.4 Improve people movement and access 29
1.5 Community and Stakeholder engagement 10 4.5 Management and partnerships to build resilience 36
2. Domain Parklands 11 5. DOMAIN PARKLANDS PRECINCTS 38
2.1 The history of the site 11 5.1 Precinct 1 - Alexandra and Queen Victoria Gardens 39
2.2 The Domain Parklands today 12 5.2 Precinct 2 - Kings Domain 44
2.3 Strategic context and influences 12 5.3 Precinct 3 - Yarra Frontage and Government House 48
2.4 Landscape Characters 14 5.4 Precinct 4 - Visitor Precinct 52
2.5 Land management and status 15 5.5 Precinct 5 - Domain South 54
2.6 Landscape Conditions 16 6. MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION 55
3. Master Plan Values 18 6.1 Indicative phasing for Master Plan Implementation 56
3.1 A healthy and resilient parkland 18 6.2 Review of the plan 57
3.2 A parkland of history and cultural heritage 18
Disclaimer
This master plan is provided for information and it does not purport to be complete. While care has been taken to ensure the content
in the master plan is accurate, we cannot guarantee it is without flaw of any kind. There may be errors and omissions or it may not be
wholly appropriate for your particular purposes. In addition, the publication is a snapshot in time based on historic information which
is liable to change. The City of Melbourne accepts no responsibility and disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence
which may arise from you relying on any information contained in this report.
To find out how you can participate in the decision-making process for City of Melbourne’s current and future
initiatives, visit melbourne.vic.gov.au/participate
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1. OVERVIEW
One of Melbourne's most beautiful
open spaces, the Domain Parklands are
rich in history, unique and special for
their location and presence. This master
plan will help us manage the parklands
for the next 20 years and ensure these
defining spaces remain contemporary.
They are part of the 'emerald necklace'
of parklands which were set aside with
such vision by Governor La Trobe.
Together with the sports and events
precinct area immediately north of the
Yarra, the Domain Parklands form part
of Melbourne's green heart, a meeting
place for more than 60,000 years
and the cornerstone of Melbourne's
reputation for liveability
The name Domain Parklands describes
the collective parks and gardens
known individually as Alexandra
Gardens, Alexandra Park, Queen
Victoria Gardens, Kings Domain,
Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne
Gardens (Royal Botanic Gardens),
Shrine of Remembrance Reserve and
Government House Reserve.
The Domain Parklands Master plan
encompasses areas managed by five
different Land Managers. It seeks to
recognise the individual and unique
destinations while also strengthening
the parklands as one Domain.
Note: Where there is mention of
the term Melbourne Gardens, it is in
reference to the area commonly known
as the Royal Botanic Gardens, managed
by the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
Note; In this master plan the Yarra
River is called by its traditional name
Birrarung meaning 'river of mists'
and 'riverbank' in the Woi Wurrung
language of the Wurundjeri people.
Key places and roads referenced throughout the master plan
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 5
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1.1 Why do we need a master plan?
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The draft Domain Parklands Master Plan
guides the future management of the
broad range OF USERS:
Domain Parklands – a treasured and
important part of Melbourne.
residents, workers
Before European settlement the area
and visitors
was of great importance to Aboriginal
people. Since Victoria’s first Lieutenant-
Governor Charles La Trobe set aside
land for the Domain Parklands in the
1840s they have played a major role in
the life and development of Melbourne.
the face of melbourne
Today the Domain Parklands
Key view lines into and
remain one of Melbourne’s favourite out of the city
destinations with strong visual
connections to the CBD and
surrounding city, containing some of its
most iconic spaces and places.
The first Domain Parklands Master
Plan was endorsed by the Melbourne
City Council in April 1997. This was the
over 120 HA of
first document to combine the various
‘Parks and Gardens’ and river corridor
public realm
into a cohesive plan and describe the
area as the Domain Parklands.
Much has occurred since 1997, including
drought, water initiatives, a dramatic
growth in visitation, the Observatory
site development, Victorian heritage diverse ecology
registration, greater provision of events
and increasing residential density in
creating lungs for
the area. Many trees in the Domain
Parklands are in decline and there is a
the city
need to plan for their replacement. The
broader context for parks management 1.5 km of upon
HISTORY and CULTURE
that has changed
..
Once me
a ti
has evolved with climate change,
extreme heat, and water restrictions
boulevard
demanding different approaches. frontage significantly
This new draft master plan incorporates over time historic living
contemporary Council policies such as
the Urban Forest Strategy 2012, Open
vegetation
Space Strategy 2012, Climate Change
Adaptation Strategy 2017 and the
Nature in the City Strategy 2017.
a place for passive and
*
It embeds city strategies and policy
directions to prepare the parklands a collection of active recreation, formal
for the major challenges presented by
SIGNIFICANT MELBOURNE 1.8 km of river
population growth and climate change.
events and informal
It responds to the significant changes
DESTINATIONS frontage
in the surrounding areas including the
Arts precinct, Southbank, the central
gatherings ranging from a
city, Birrarung Marr and the Sports few people to over 10,000!
precinct across the river.
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1.2 Vision
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‘Valuing the
treasured
parklands at the
heart of Melbourne
and celebrating
their past, present
and future.
The master plan outlines a vision for the
Domain Parklands that will:
• Respect and reveal the site's
Aboriginal cultural heritage, and
reflect the broader cultural values
of historical and contemporary
significance to Melbourne.
• Provide a centre of excellence
in urban horticulture where
contemporary and diverse
landscapes are resilient, resource
efficient, well managed and
maintained. These landscapes
will acknowledge heritage values,
support ecological and biodiversity
aspirations and be landscapes that
are enjoyed by the community.
• Strengthen ‘One Domain’ where
accessible journeys support all
visitors to explore and use the
parklands.
• Provide amenities that support the
needs of all visitors and encourage
positive experiences of the
parklands.
• Reflect the experience people are
seeking in the Domain Parklands
in the planning, management and
balancing of priorities.
• Foster partnerships between the
Land Managers to improve the
parklands and enhance visitor
experiences.
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1.3 Domain Parklands Master Plan snapshot
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1.3.1 Key Values 1.3.2 Themes
The Master Plan sets five key values Proposals in the master plan have been
to guide future management of the described within five themes, each with
Domain Parklands over the next 20 a number of action areas:
years.
• A healthy and resilient parkland
• A parkland of history and cultural
heritage
• A parkland for people
• A parkland that connects
• A parkland of partnerships
Fundamental to all the values is the
principle that there be no net loss of
parkland and that future change should
bring positive benefits to the Domain
Parklands. 1. Nurture a diverse landscape and 2. Acknowledge history and 3. Support exceptional visitor 4. Improve pedestrian movement 5. Management and partnerships
parkland ecology cultural heritage experience and access to build resilience
These values will form the base for
decision making over the life of the 20
year master plan, as it is not possible
to anticipate all influences and changes Key action areas Key action areas Key action areas Key action areas Key action areas
that will arise.
• Elevate horticultural complexity • Respect and reveal the Aboriginal • Provide facilities (amenities) to • Improve parklands entrances • Make one parkland of many unique
and management cultural heritage meet future needs destinations
• Improve internal pathway networks
• Support a healthy ecosystem • Reflect cultural values and • Enhance visitor experience • Create a framework for priorities
• Reduce barriers and improve and decision-making
historical significance
• Manage a city arboretum • Manage organised activity spaces access over roads • Commitment to future
• Manage memorials in the Domain management and collaboration
• Manage soil and water Parklands (areas managed by City • Manage events • Support access by public transport
of Melbourne). • Manage uses in the areas managed
• Network approaches to improve by the City of Melbourne
cycling routes
• Reduce the impact of services
• Contemporary wayfinding in the
Domain Parklands
• Create journeys in the Domain
Parklands
• Rethink the use of existing road
space
• Car parking – support visitor
access while adapting to future
trends
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1.4 Preparation of the master plan
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The draft master plan has been created Other policy documents which
to reflect the multiple layers which informed the master plan include:
make up the place and how it is used.
Wide community and stakeholder • Urban Forest Strategy 2012, Open
consultation was conducted, along Space Strategy 2012, Park Policy,
with detailed research, analysis and 1997
planning.
• Shrine Reserve Landscape
Management Plan (2015) urban parkland visitors
The consultation explored the opinions • Melbourne Gardens Master Plan context ecology
and ideas of community members (draft 2018)
and stakeholders for the future of
the Domain Parklands. The technical • Active Melbourne Plan (2018)
analysis examined uses and activities,
heritage, landscape character, traffic • Reconciliation Action Plan 2015 –
and parking, horticulture and other 2018, Aboriginal Heritage Action
social and environmental values of the Plan 2015 – 2018
parklands. The relationships between
• Total Watermark – City as a
the individual parts of the Domain
Catchment (update 2014)
Parklands were explored along with
opportunities to improve interfaces and • Climate Change adaptation
visitor services. strategy 2017, Nature in the City
Strategy 2017
Specific research prepared to inform
• Transport Strategy 2012 cultural access and land
the master plan included the Domain
Parklands Parking and Traffic Study heritage movement management
2016, Domain Parklands Conservation
Management Plan 2016 and Domain
Parklands: a shared values study 2017.
landscape uses and trees and
characters activities vegetation
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 9
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1.5 Community and Stakeholder engagement
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This draft master plan was prepared Other organisations consulted included ‘The boathouses and
following wide stakeholder and Parks Victoria, Heritage Victoria, the Yarra River.’
community engagement, which further VicRoads and the National Trust. More
informed the detailed research and detailed consultation was undertaken
analysis. with some groups including the rowing
clubs for specific analysis on the
Alexandra Gardens and the rowing ‘So many different groups can
use this space for a vast array of
precinct. ‘The shade provided by trees
A two-phase community engagement and walking tracks. A balance different activities and the space
can be adapted as an event
program obtained community input between events and passive use
(picnics, reading a book).’ space but maintains its historical
and ideas for the Domain Parklands: significance.’
Discussions were held with three
Traditional Owner groups which
informed values, recommendations and
Phase 1 – Share your memories of themes. It is acknowledged that these ‘I value it because it’s such ‘Botanic Gardens, being
‘The able to walk beside the
Domain Parklands discussions will be ongoing, to explore peacefulness in
‘The peace and quiet, a large area of green space
the freshness and which is really diverse, has Yarra River, the great
further ways to work together and ways the middle of
The first phase was conducted in greenness, being able lots of special areas to expanse of greenery and
to represent the Aboriginal cultural the city.’ explore and enjoy.’ being able to get away
September to November, 2015. It to walk the Tan and
heritage in the parklands. see the incredible from the hustle and bustle
gathered information about what variety of people of the city’.
people value about the Domain out there doing the
Parklands by inviting them to share same.’
memories, prompting conversations The City of Melbourne Parks and
about the themes and aspirations for Gardens Advisory Committee gave
the future of the parklands. Specific extensive assistance to develop this ‘I can get away from the heat,
programs were held to engage with draft master plan. noise and congestion of the city.’
‘Something for everyone.’
children.
Phase 2 – Discussion Paper The City of Melbourne Disability
The second phase in July – August 2016 Advisory Committee provided valuable ‘The green oasis in the city.’
involved the release of a discussion advice and input, with members taking ‘The Tan Track.’
paper seeking public comment on key part in site visits.
themes to set the direction for the
future of the Domain Parklands.
Community Engagement responses: 'What do you value most in the Domain Parklands?' 'Share your memories' children's consultation
2015 September 2015
Key project partners and
stakeholders
Preparation of this draft master plan
was guided by a management steering
group representing each of the Land
Managers, community members, Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Adoption 2019
Traditional Owners and the Victorian
Government.
sept-nov 2015 jul-aug 2016 aug-sept 2018 Dec 2018
community
engagement discussion
draft Adoption of Commence staged
‘share your paper master Master Plan Implementation
memories’ plan
community public
engagement Council
display
Domain Parklands master plan project timeline
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2. Domain Parklands
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2.1 The history of the site Pre-European settlement
Cultural landscape history The historic landscape
Before European settlement, the In 1841, following British colonial
land surrounding the Yarra River, the planning tradition, high ground
Birrarrung, was a life source for the overlooking Melbourne was reserved
Aboriginal people. Vegetation would as land for a vice-regal residence. In
have included open grasslands and 1846 additional land was reserved Planting along the old river alignment.
grassy woodland, including River Red for a botanic gardens. The natural
gums, and on the higher areas most vegetation was modified and replaced,
Melbourne founded 1835
likely plains grassland. The Yarra River wetlands were filled in and topography 1841 Site reserved for Government
would periodically flood and replenish a was altered. The river flooding was House and grounds
series of billabongs and wetlands. The substantially controlled by the early
swampy south bank was also a place 1900s through the straightening of the 1846 Reserve for a botanic gardens added to Domain
of beauty, with lagoons fringed with River north of Princes Bridge. These
1860s Ferdinand Mueller Plan
native grasses, the riverbank edged works in turn created new areas in the
with tea-tree scrub, and a sprinkling of Domain, including Alexandra Gardens, 1870s Guilfoyle and Sayce Plan
large eucalypts. Alexandra Avenue and Queen Victoria
Gardens. 1890s Catani Era
1911 Birrarung re-alignment
Aboriginal people managed the
land and its resources carefully and Over time formal gardens were 1933 Linaker Plan
respectfully, according to ancient lore. established, trees were planted, and as
This was the Traditional Country of time progressed there were adaptions 1866 view over the Domain Parklands
the Kulin nation, which comprised five and changes reflecting something
Aboriginal language groups speaking of Melbourne’s evolution. Over an
Shrine of Remembrance opened 1934
related languages. For Aboriginal extended period several significant
people, the river was Birrarung (‘River directions in design have been
of Mists’); central to their identity and implemented, some of which remain
their livelihood. Aboriginal people intact today. Key periods include:
enjoyed a varied and plentiful diet on
1860 - Ferdinand Mueller plan 1959 Sidney Myer Music Bowl opened
this rich flood plain. Eels and fish were
caught in the broad lagoons, and it was
a good place to camp. 1874 – William Guilfoyle and Sayce plan
1890’s – Catani plan
1938 Aerial view of Domian Parklands
1933 - Linaker plan.
The area had long been an important
meeting place for the Aboriginal
Domain Parklands Master Plan 1997
population. Further along the river was
‘the Falls’, then a relatively substantial
The lesser told story occurring as
ledge of volcanic rock than spanned the Severe drought periods
Melbourne was establishing was the
river. This was significant as a crossing
displacement of Aboriginal people, and
place and a fishing place, and marked Climate change awareness
the hardship and misery experienced
the divide between the salt water and
by immigrants. A Canvas Town and
fresh water. 2013 Parklands added to the Victorian
Immigrants home were located on land
within the parklands. A missionary Heritage Register
reserve was established. But the
stories of the Aboriginal people and
Melbourne’s early European settlement
2015 view over the Domain Parklands
is largely forgotten. Melbourne became
a prosperous city and the Domain
Parklands reflected how Melbourne
Domain Parklands Master Plan 2018
2018 Parklands added to the Australian
wanted to see itself.
National Heritage List
2018 - 2038 Domain Parklands Master Plan
2040
Timeline of key moments in the history of the Domain Parklands
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 11
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2.2 The Domain
A City of Melbourne
municipality
Parklands today
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Domain Parklands
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‘green necklace’
park network
The Domain Parklands occupy an cultural heritage and character,
area totalling 123 hectares generally and are important for economic
bounded by the Yarra River, Anderson development, tourism, events and the
Street, Domain Road and St Kilda Road. arts. The parklands make a significant
contribution to the quality and diversity
The Domain Parklands are identified of the city’s open spaces.
as Capital City and State open spaces
in the City of Melbourne’s Open Space Visitors to the parklands are increasing
Strategy 2012. It describes these as the municipality’s resident, worker
as iconic and synonymous with the and visitor populations grow. The
character and identity of Melbourne Domain Parklands is the major open
and often used to stage activities and space within walking distance to many
events of international, national, state residents in Southbank, the CBD and
and metropolitan importance. South Yarra. There is a particularly high
dependence by Southbank and CBD
The Domain Parklands are important residents on the Domain Parklands as
for physical and mental health and most people live in apartments and
wellbeing of the community and there are few local parks.
social connectedness. They cool
the city, support biodiversity, profile
2.3 Strategic context
and influences
population growth SNAPSHOT
Population
160,000
The parklands connect with
surrounding areas including the Arts
precinct, Southbank, the central 124,776
city, Birrarung Marr and the Sports
precinct across the river. These areas 120,000
are developing and changing and all
experiencing growth.
250%
GROWTH
Key city-shaping projects underway will 80,000
also dramatically influence the urban
68,550
context for the Domain Parklands over
the next few decades. These projects
include the Metro Tunnel project, the
40,000
Swan Street Bridge redevelopment,
Southbank Boulevard redevelopment
and continued development of the
Sports precinct and Arts precinct.
0
Year 2016 2036 LEGEND
Population growth in Southbank City of Melbourne municipality
and the CBD
Domain Parklands
‘green necklace’ park network
Domain Parklands location with the City of Melbourne municipality
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DRAFT 09.08.2018Public open space Master plans by City of Melbourn
Carlton
Gardens
Sports precinct TJS
Projects by City of Melbourne^ W % f.
Cultural/arts precinct Master plans by others
Population growth Projects by others
Birrarung Marr
(D Train station Master Plan © New train station
Federation Square
Master Pli
Flinders Street
Fitzroy
Precinct
Gardens
Treasury
Gardens Melbourne
Tunnel Project
Southbank
Promenade
& Queens Bridge
Square Renewal
Federation Melbourne Park
Square Birrarung
Master Plan
Marr
Yarra Park
Melbourne
Park
City Road
Master Plan
Olympic Park
Southbank
Boulevard Swan Street Bridge
Redevelopmet
St Kilda Road
Master Plan
Southbank
population
growth
Melbourne Tunnel Project
(proposed ANZAC Station)
Biodiversity
Corridor
Fawkner Park
Albert Park
Domain Parklands surrounding context Surrounding projects affecting the Domain Parklands
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 13
DRAFT 09.08.20182.4 LANDSCAPE CHARACTERS
The landscape of the Domain LEGEND
Parklands comprises a number of
Destination Melbourne landscape
distinct character areas within it.
Landscape characters contribute to Ornamental gardens
the experiences people have and
value. The master plan will seek to Rivers edge
retain experiences people enjoy while
diversifying the landscape where Open parkland
appropriate, for example along the river
Botanical landscape
corridor. In the future planting plans
will continue to complement landscape Government House gardens
characters and preserve significant
view lines, while also allowing for Shrine Reserve
testing and monitoring plants to adapt
to a changing climate.
/
Landscape characters within the Domain Parklands
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2.5 LAND MANAGEMENT AND STATDS / r.
All the Domain Parklands are Crown The Sidney Myer Music Bowl and
LAND MANAGERS
land, permanently reserved from sale its setting are included on the
for a specific public purpose pursuant National Heritage List (place ID Melbourne City Council
to the provisions of the Crown Land 105743). The parklands, with the
(Reserves) Act 1978. Observatory site but excluding the Royal Botanic Gardens Board
Melbourne Gardens, were placed
Some Reserves comprise several on the National Heritage List as Shrine of Remembrance Trustees
allotments set aside for different part of the Melbourne's Domain
purposes including public parks and Office of the Governor
Parkland and Memorial Precinct
gardens, ornamental plantations, (place ID 106305) on 12 February Victorian Arts Centre Trust
memorials and statues. The Melbourne 2018.
City Council has been appointed VicRoads
Committee of Management of most of The Melbourne Observatory was
the Reserves. The Government House one of only four nineteenth century Parks Victoria/Melbourne Water
Reserve, Shrine of Remembrance observatories in the southern
Reserve, Sidney Myer Music Bowl and hemisphere and provided critical
Melbourne Gardens have more specific infrastructure for the functioning of
purposes and under this remit are the colony and the wider scientific
managed by other Land Managers. world. Its functions included providing
meteorological data essential for
The City of Melbourne manages a predicting weather, providing accurate
number of leases and licences for longitudinal data for the continent and
facilities within the Domain Parklands was Melbourne's key time keeper.
for community benefit. These include
the Yarra Boathouses, leased to rowing The King's Domain Resting Place has
clubs, Latrobe's Cottage, leased to the outstanding national heritage value
National Trust, and the Domain House, to the nation for its association with
licenced by the Royal Botanic Gardens Australia's national repatriation story.
Victoria.
The Domain Parklands primarily
lie within the Public Park and
Recreation Zone of the Melbourne
Planning Scheme.
The Domain Parklands were added
to the Victorian Heritage Register
as a Heritage Place/Archaeological
Place (H2304) in 2013 pursuant
31%
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS BOARD
to the Heritage Act 1995. This
indicates the historic values of
the place are at a State level of
importance. 9%
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
• Government House, Royal Botanic
Gardens, Sidney Myer Music
Bowl, the Shrine of Remembrance
Reserve, Melbourne University
Boat Club, the former Observatory
site and various monuments were
11%
SHRINE OF REMEMBRANCE TRUSTEES
already listed on the Victorian
Heritage register.
2%
VICTORIAN ARTS CENTRE TRUST
47%
MELBOURNE CITY COUNCIL
Land managers within the Domain Parklands
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 15
DRAFT 09.08.2018FT 2.6 Landscape conditions A R D Course of Lower Yarra River during colonisation Aerial image of Domain Parklands 16 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/domainparklands DRAFT 09.08.2018
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The Domain Parklands Master Plan sets
five key values to guide the evolution
3.1 A healthy and resilient parkland 3.2 A parkland of history and cultural
and management of the Domain
Parklands over the next 20 years.
heritage
The Domain Parklands will have an respite from the heat and cool the We recognise that the parkland is a its association with the history of
even more important role in the city. place of cultural and historic interest Melbourne is important and needs
Fundamental to all the values is the
future as climate change brings to the people of Victoria as evidenced to be maintained and enhanced.
principle that there be no net loss of
greater challenges. We recognise that • Planning for landscape succession by various listings on the Victorian
parkland and that future change should
healthy parklands contribute essential is integral to managing healthy Heritage Register, National Heritage • Managing the parklands as a
bring positive benefits to the Domain
environmental services to urban landscapes. List and Victorian Aboriginal Heritage heritage place while allowing it
Parklands.
environments. To support a healthy and Register. In addition to the official to evolve to reflect contemporary
resilient parkland we need to increase • Trees play many essential roles, histories, monuments and structures values and meet the needs of the
canopy cover and urban forest diversity, providing beauty, creating there is also the ‘other’ history- the city should continue.
improve vegetation health, habitat and landscape settings, stimulating the stories and memories of people over
improve soil moisture and water quality. senses and positively influencing generations, which influences what • There are unique parts of the
our mental health and wellbeing. people value today. This is also a place parklands which contribute to the
Climate change will influence the future of living culture, not just one reflecting cultural significance.
planning and management of the • Urban ecology and biodiversity
the past.
parklands. are important indicators and • The opportunity to recreate
contributors to healthy parklands. We know: elements of indigenous landscape
We know: and places for gathering, reflection
• Selecting the right plants for the • The area that is now the Domain and education will be explored.
• Tree canopies and root systems right place will support biodiversity Parklands is significant to Development of opportunities for
reduce stormwater flows and in the city. Aboriginal People. It is a place education about Aboriginal culture
nutrient loads that would end of shared Aboriginal and non- in the parklands will be supported.
up in waterways during weather • Horticultural elements provide
Aboriginal history and cultural
events. Trees intercept rainfall some of the pleasure enjoyed by • The important civic, ceremonial,
heritage values.
and unpaved areas absorb water, people visiting the parklands. recreational and landscape
slowing the rate of runoff and • All people value the cultural experiences and features that this
• Managing levels of use is important place provides for the capital city
contributing to the stormwater diversity and heritage of the
to maintain a healthy landscape. should be celebrated.
management. parklands as it connects and gives
them a sense of place.
• Healthy parks are an essential
• On days of extreme heat, the trees
ingredient for healthy people.
in the Domain Parklands provide • The role of the parklands as the
setting for Government House,
the Shrine of Remembrance, the
Melbourne Gardens, Observatory
and Sidney Myer Music Bowl and
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3.3 A parkland for people 3.4 A parkland that connects 3.5 A parkland of partnerships
Parks are critical for physical and • Places of quiet reflection and The Domain Parklands are valued well cooling the city. Their contribution The Domain Parklands are one special
mental health and wellbeing. By landscape beauty provide relief beyond their boundaries. They are an to the city economy is substantial. place, created by the distinct character
improving access and balancing from the urban environment. essential ingredient to the liveability of the individual destinations within
uses we support equity and facilitate of the city, and contribute to who we • The wider economic benefit of it. We recognise there is opportunity
participation by all. We recognise • Recognise that people of all ages are as a city. Viewed from the ground the parklands contributes to our for Domain Parklands Land Managers
the importance of encouraging and abilities visit the parklands. and above, they provide layers of joy present and future quality of life, to collaborate to enhance the broader
participation in physical activity and and discovery for residents and visitors health and prosperity. To continue destination management.
promoting opportunities for relaxation, • New journeys, improved path from all over the world. They connect to capture the economic benefits
community and learning. links and better public transport us to the city and the river and are part the city must invest in the renewal We know:
connections are needed to improve of our knowledge of Melbourne. and care of the parklands.
We know: access to the key destinations • Strengthening the environmental
within the parklands. We know: • Prominent landmarks in the services role for the city and
• The beauty of the landscape setting parklands connect with the city improving the visitor experience
is an essential part of the quality of • Provision of well-located amenities • The Domain Parklands are a and help people navigate. of the place, will benefit from
the visitor experience. encourages participation by all major factor in our international collective oversight and direction.
and makes the visit a positive reputation as an attractive and • Access and movement to and
• People visit the parklands from experience. liveable city and desirable tourist within the parklands is best • There are unique destinations with
near and far. The parklands are destination. They are a major planned with the pedestrian as the specific purposes. Together they
important for people who live • Good wayfinding supports the contributor to property values priority. create ‘Parklands’ to be celebrated.
nearby in apartments as well as visitor. It allows people to discover in the city, Southbank and South
for people from across the State new experiences as well as helping Yarra and contribute significant • Good access to and around the • Common values and a united vision
who may visit less frequently. them get to their destination. direct economic value to the city. parklands is an essential ingredient for the Domain Parklands will
Recognising the different ways the for the quality of the visitor elevate innovative management for
parklands are used is an important • Play in parks is important for the • The Domain Parklands provide experience. the parklands.
part of supporting visitors. healthy development of children economic benefits through cultural
and young people. services including recreation, • A hierarchy of accessible paths, • Partnerships in management will
health and tourism. Additionally journeys, wayfinding, access help to build resilience.
they provide ecosystem services by public transport and links to
surrounding parks and the Yarra • Collaborative approaches to
such air filtration, storm water
River are integral to good access. management will incorporate
cleaning, climate regulation and
strategic direction, guidance and
communication.
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 19
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4 master plan themes
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4.1 Nurture a diverse landscape and parkland ecology
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4.1.1 Elevate horticultural 4.1.2 Support a healthy 4.1.3 Manage a city arboretum 4.1.4 Manage soil and water
complexity and management ecosystem
Ferdinand Mueller, the first director of It is proposed to further expand the city Management of soil and water in the
Enhancing horticultural elements in The Domain Parklands are one of the the Royal Botanic Gardens planted an arboretum in partnership with the Royal landscape will continue to be of critical
the landscape and connecting to other major biodiversity hotspots in the arboretum through the parklands in Botanic Gardens Victoria. Through the importance in nurturing a healthy
significant landscapes such as the Melbourne municipality. They contain the 1850s and 1860s. An arboretum city arboretum, a stronger emphasis and resilient parkland. Soil moisture
Melbourne Gardens and Yarra River, diverse vegetation that supports is a collection of trees, cultivated for will be placed on science, research and is influenced by rainfall and irrigation
will attract visitors, and enhance visitor animals and other living creatures, conservation, scientific, research and education. The trees will be managed as well as the soil structure. Adapting
experience through appreciation of forming unique urban ecosystems. educational purposes. at a higher level of cultivation than and improving soil management and
the landscape. Technical expertise These ecosystems are crucial for usual, to facilitate leading research. The irrigation practises increases the
and good management is needed to maintaining health and wellbeing by Trees play an essential role in defining learning from this will be applied to absorptive and water holding capacity
support a healthy landscape, respect filtrating air and water and providing the character of the Domain Parklands. tree selection and management across of the soil. We will continue to work
heritage and achieve cost effective shade and places for recreation. They provide beauty, habitat, create the municipality. Selection of planting toward integrated water management
maintenance. A management plan and landscape settings, stimulate the senses locations will be guided and designed systems throughout the parklands,
guiding principles will be developed We need to understand, monitor and and positively influence our mental carefully to coordinate with landscape including investigating alternative water
The City of Melbourne is currently
to enable operational decision facilitate the many ways the Domain health and wellbeing. Trees are vital for character, heritage influences, view supplies.
facing three significant challenges:
making, to inform park renewal, Parklands promote and support cooling the city and the tree canopies lines and open areas to retain, and how
climate change, urban heating and
routine maintenance and operational urban ecology and biodiversity in and root systems reduce stormwater the area is used.
population growth. These will place
plans, including where garden beds the municipality and ensure our flows and nutrient loads that would
pressure on the fabric, services and
should be reinstated or removed. The management protects and improves end up in the Yarra River and our Opportunities to develop an education
people of the city. We need to respond
management plan will include all asset these values. waterways. centre to promote understanding of the
to these challenges by proactively
building healthy resilient landscapes for classes (such as horticulture, paths, role of the urban forest will be explored
Many trees in the Domain Parklands (see Visitor Experience - section 4.3).
future generations. infrastructure, and water features). The
are reaching the later part of their life
plan will guide selection of a healthy
and will need replacing in the coming
The Domain Parklands play a critical mix of exotic and native species as well
decades. New tree planting and
environmental health role, acting as functional aspects such as shade
planting renewal will be informed by
as lungs for the city. All its natural for the Tan Track. Through the master
research identifying trees which are
elements—soil, water, trees and plan we will continue to ensure the
better at coping with future climate
plants—require effective management parklands are a centre of excellence in
conditions.
and resourcing over the short and urban horticulture.
long term. We want to maximise the
environmental contribution of the
parklands and incorporate this into Master Plan Actions Master Plan Actions Master Plan Actions Master Plan Actions
future decision-making. • Implement City of Melbourne • Implement the principles of the • Develop and manage the city • Continue innovative approaches to
Eco-City strategies while retaining Urban Forest Strategy and Nature arboretum in partnership with the soil management
The parklands are also significant in
landscape design elements that in the City Strategy to improve Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
that they provide pleasure, respite
have been assessed as having biodiversity and urban ecology. • Continue to work towards
and contact with nature to people • Recommend funding for program
primary conservation significance. integrated water management.
visiting the parklands. The quality of • Partner with Land Managers on delivery of science, research and
the experience is enhanced through • Develop and implement a initiatives to improve biodiversity education for the arboretum. • Investigate and recommend
landscape design and horticultural management plan and guiding outcomes, integrate approaches to investment in alternative water
expertise. principles that facilitates water management and advance • Develop a detailed tree planting supply systems in partnership with
horticultural excellence for planting the arboretum. and maintenance plan and Land Managers to achieve a 50 per
styles, locations and maintenance collections policy for the cent target of all irrigation water
regimes for the parklands. arboretum. used in the parkland being from a
non-potable source.
• Strategically introduce native plant
palettes in key areas including the
river edge.
• As part of the detailed designs for
Kings Domain south, Kings Domain
(Toms Block) and Alexandra Park,
improve landscape character and
planting diversity.
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 21
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4.2 ACKNOWLEDGE HISTORY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
4.2.1 Respect and reveal the Master Plan Actions
Aboriginal cultural heritage • Work with the Traditional owner
groups to build a stronger story of
The area that is now the Domain the Aboriginal connection to the
Parklands is significant to Aboriginal area of the Domain Parklands, river
people. There are two distinct and river banks.
communities represented in the
parklands. The Kings Domain Resting Commission further research
Place is important for all the nations in of historical data from primary
Victoria. There are also specific groups sources and the Lower Yarra
with stated connection to the area. landscape's cultural values, with a
focus on the Domain Parklands.
Before European settlement the land
we know now as the Domain Parklands Explore and strengthen the link
There are many cultural values was a rich and fertile landscape. The to Tromgin (indigenous social
and characters within the Domain river followed a different course, with gathering site) and along the
Parklands. The Domain Parklands have extensive wetlands along much of Yarra River, in collaboration with
evolved over time, boundaries have the lower parts of the area. It was an Traditional Owners and Royal
changed, important places have been area of great importance to Aboriginal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
built, and the Yarra River has been a people, a meeting place and a food
source. Develop a self- guided Melbourne
constant connection. It is a place of
walk in collaboration with
shared Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal
This master plan will acknowledge Traditional Owners and Royal
history and cultural heritage values.
the Aboriginal history of the Domain Botanic Gardens Victoria.
The Aboriginal cultural heritage Parklands, while also creating a
platform to celebrate Aboriginal Working with all the Land
is a missing layer in the current
culture in Melbourne in the 21st century. Managers and Traditional Owners,
Domain Parklands.
People want to know the story of this develop a joint Cultural Heritage
• Unique parts of the parklands country. Management Plan to guide the
contribute to the cultural management of the place.
significance. In the future the use of Aboriginal place
names to recognise history will be Explore renaming places within the
The parklands were set aside explored. parklands to recognise Aboriginal
as the 'domain' for Government history.
House. They were also the place
for other important government
functions including the Melbourne
Gardens and Observatory.
LEGEND
Existing indigenous planting
Opportunity for indigenous /native planting
Opportunity to enhance indigenous /native planting
Destination Melbourne landscape
Ornamental gardens
Rivers edge
Open parkland
Botanical landscape
Government House gardens
King Domain Resting Place marks the burial
Shrine Reserve
place of some 30 Aboriginal people
Key areas for enhancing native plant palette
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4.2.2 Reflect cultural values Master Plan Actions
and historical significance • Promote an increase in community
understanding and recognition
The Domain Parklands are of historical, of cultural heritage. Increase the
archaeological, aesthetic, architectural, public visibility of the history of the
scientific (horticultural), and social parklands through information and
significance to the State of Victoria. The interpretation.
Domain Parklands were listed on the
Victorian Heritage Register in July 2013. • Continue to maintain and restore
the unique parts of the cultural
Unique parts of the Domain Parklands collection.
that contribute to the cultural and
historical significance include:
• As a setting for places of
outstanding value, being
Government House and Grounds,
the Shrine of Remembrance,
the Sidney Myer Music Bowl,
the Melbourne Gardens and
Observatory.
• Places such as the Pioneer
Women’s Memorial Garden, the
fern gully, the boathouses, The
Tan Track, the Queen Victoria
memorial, and Janet Lady Clarke
rotunda.
• Specific journeys or path links,
particular views, elements of
Aboriginal cultural significance,
horticultural places such as the
floral clock and unusual features
such as the Robinette rockeries.
• Fountains and water features,
artwork and sculptures.
A number of elements such as
fountains, artworks, sculptures and
rockeries enhance the recreation
experience for visitors as well as being
of cultural and historic value. They are,
and should continue to be, maintained
and restored as part of the cultural
collection.
Of enormous importance is the use of
the parklands by the people of Victoria
and beyond. The parklands are highly
valued by all. The parklands are used
for passive and active recreation, for
celebration and commemoration, for
ceremonial and civic functions. These
are of ongoing importance to the city
and its people.
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 23
DRAFT 09.08.20184.2.3 Manage memorials in the Master Plan actions
Domain Parklands Requests for future
memorialisation, other than within
There are many memorials within the the Shrine Reserve, are only
Kings Domain. Due to its location, considered if in keeping with the
character and high profile, the Kings Plaques and Memorials policy
Domain is frequently requested as the (2016).
location to place new memorials. While
each memorial has merit, the ad hoc That no additional large memorials
accumulation over time has resulted in or monuments, unless replacing
visual clutter and limitations on the way existing ones, be permitted within
the parklands can be used. areas of the Domain Parklands
managed by the City of Melbourne.
In order to manage and protect the
landscape values and uses of all the Continue to contain plaques for
parklands, the City of Melbourne has Rotary commemoration within the
developed a Plaques and Memorials current Rotary corner area.
policy (2016) which establishes criteria
to guide decision-making.
Any future proposals for memorials
within the areas of the Domain
Parklands which City of Melbourne
manages, other than within the Shrine
Reserve, will need to be managed
within the policy and alternative
methods of commemoration should be
considered.
It is proposed that no further large
memorials be placed in the Kings
Domain, and any future memorialisation
only be considered where it could
become part of the landscape rather
than as a specific element. Alternative
methods for commemoration could
be considered such as horticultural
memorials (including display garden
beds) which would be more consistent
with the park setting and contribute
to the ecological diversity and visitor
experience. De-accession or rotation
policies for existing memorials, similar
to galleries, are other possibilities.
LEGEND
Queen Victoria Gardens - royal memorials
Tom's Block - civic/institutional memorials
Shrine Reserve - war memorials
Rotary corner - community groups
Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden
Government House Drive+Anzac Avenue - government and military leaders
Designated areas for memorialisation within the Domain Parklands
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4.3 Support exceptional visitor experience
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People come to visit particular
destinations in the Domain Parklands
including the Melbourne Gardens, the
Shrine of Remembrance and the Sidney
Myer Music Bowl. People also visit the
parklands for a range of sport and
recreation activities, both formal and
informal, e.g. to relax, walk, exercise, for
picnics and gatherings, to row, to skate,
for play, walk the dog on a lead, attend
events and public programs, concerts,
ceremonies and commemorations
and to generally explore and enjoy
the parklands. Visitors include
residents, workers, local, interstate and
international tourists.
While actual visitor numbers are
difficult to collect, it is clear they
are high. The Melbourne Gardens
have over 1.6 million visitors and the
Shrine of Remembrance (monument
and Reserve) also receive around 1.5
million visitors each year. The Sidney
Myer Music Bowl has around 200,000
visitors a year. Recent Tan Track counts
have from 4,000 to 6,000 people using
the track each day, which equates to 1.7
– 2.2 million visitors per year.
Places of quiet reflection and landscape
beauty provide relief from the urban
environment. Enhancing the visual
amenity and landscape setting of
the Domain Parklands to provide this
respite is a high priority. Provision of
well-located amenities encourages
participation by all and makes the visit
a positive experience.
The number of visitors to the parklands
will continue to grow. There is
increasing pressure regarding the levels
and types of uses in the parklands and
the effect of some activities on the
passive enjoyment of the parklands. A
balanced approach, to enable different
activities to occur while retaining
experiences, is essential to supporting
exceptional visitor experience.
Domain Parklands Draft Masterplan City of Melbourne 25
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4.3.1 Provide facilities Master Plan Actions 4.3.2 Enhance visitor The ANZAC Station (currently under Master Plan Actions
(amenities) to meet future experience construction) presents an opportunity
• Upgrade the depot toilets (at • Prepare a detailed design for
to create a new entrance to the
needs Government House gate) and
parklands in Kings Domain South.
Alexandra Park (S). This will
Alexandra Avenue (S) toilets. The highest use of the parklands is include resolution of accessible
unstructured recreation. Unstructured Accessible paths need to be created to
The term ‘amenities’ describes facilities path locations, upgrading picnic
• Relocate the Alexandra Gardens recreation describes activities that are bring visitors to the entrances of the
such as seats, drink fountains, bins, areas and separating cyclist
toilet and determine its optimum usually non-competitive, spontaneous, Melbourne Gardens and the Shrine of
public toilets, lighting, picnic and movement corridors.
size. Determine location and informal or social in nature, such Remembrance from the station.
BBQ areas which support visitors.
Improvements to amenities include provide for sewer connection for as walking, play, picnicking and • Work with the Royal Botanic
contemplation. A new visitor and nature centre
assessing gaps in provision, upgrading temporary event toilets. Gardens Victoria to develop the
is proposed, to welcome visitors
toilets and improving signage to toilet detailed design to enhance the
• Relocate the toilets currently Understanding the importance of these and introduce them to the unique
and picnic areas. interface and improve pedestrian
adjacent to the Sidney Myer Music experiences is important for managing destinations within the parklands. It
links with the Melbourne Gardens.
Bowl to a more suitable location and balancing priorities within the is envisaged that the nature centre
The picnic / BBQ area along the Yarra
(to be determined during detailed parklands. A balanced approach to would be an urban forest and • Create a new entry to the
needs redesigning and upgrading to
design). enable different activities to occur ecology education hub, promoting parklands from the ANZAC Station,
improve access (refer section 4.3.2).
concurrently or consecutively within the importance of the urban forest, including accessible paths to
There is also the opportunity to
• Review toilets adjacent to The the parklands, while not displacing the arboretum, green infrastructure, entries at the Melbourne Gardens
provide further picnic and BBQ areas at
Shrine of Remembrance as part experiences sought by the majority of urban horticulture and nature. The and Shrine of Remembrance.
different locations within the parklands,
of Kings Domain South detailed users will be sought. visitor centre component could be
including Kings Domain South.
design. curated to introduce themes relating • Investigate the development of
Path lighting is important for public In addition to programming of events to the evolution and changing a new visitor and nature centre,
safety, amenity and access. There are • Identify the location and provide a and activities, the quality of the character of the parklands. These in partnership with the Land
some areas where improvements to ‘changing places’ facility to support visitor experience is influenced by themes include civic and governance Managers.
lighting are a priority. These include people with profound disabilities. their positive interactions with others, role (Government House), military
Alexandra Gardens, especially near the the landscape setting, the amenities history and commemoration (Shrine • Investigate opportunities for
• Improve directional signage to that are provided, and their ability to of Remembrance), Aboriginal collaboration with the Royal
boathouses, and in the access to the
public toilets. find their way around the parklands. cultural heritage, science and history Botanic Gardens Victoria in the
Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
Through enhancing the visual amenity (Observatory), botanical (Melbourne visitor information and education
• Redesign and upgrade the picnic/ and landscape setting of the Domain Gardens) and the settlement and services associated with the
Bicycle parking locations and repair
BBQ area along the Yarra River in Parklands they will continue to provide planning of Melbourne. In consultation proposed new Herbarium within
stations should be provided in suitable
Alexandra Park (S). the community with relief from the with Traditional Owners, information the visitor and nature centre.
locations within the parklands.
Provision of facilities to support harshness of the urban environment. celebrating and acknowledging
• Identify suitable locations for new • Introduce programming and
recharging motorised scooters and Aboriginal cultural heritage could also
picnic/BBQ areas including in The southern section of Alexandra Park, prompts for greater play in the
wheelchairs could be investigated be shared. The proposed National
Kings Domain South. adjacent to the Alexandra Avenue (S) is Domain Parklands.
in conjunction with the other Land Herbarium of Victoria, which has a
Managers. a popular riverside picnic and BBQ area critical research and storage function
Assess the location of existing seating,
with a pleasant landscape character. It as well as an education and information
drink fountains, bins, lighting, bike
also has an increasing use by cyclists. role, could have elements co-located
parking and bike repair stations.
A detailed design is a high priority for with the nature centre.
Develop guidelines and service levels
this area, to improve accessibility of the
for their type, location and spacing and
path network, upgrade the picnic areas, The parklands are a rich landscape for
provide new amenities where required.
and separate the cyclist movement play with space, trees to climb, and an
Provide facilities for recharging corridor by creating a dedicated on interesting variety of places to hide and
motorised scooters and wheelchairs. road cycle path. This design will also places to run. Nature play will continue
incorporate links to the proposed to be encouraged in the parklands.
new river entry to the Melbourne Opportunities and prompts for play
Gardens, potential new boat landing for could particularly be explored in Kings
transport to the Melbourne Gardens, Domain South.
and ways to better connect the
landscapes (with the Gardens). Other
considerations will include planning for
tree renewal and other initiatives which
link to the draft Melbourne Gardens
Master Plan. These projects will be
developed with Melbourne Gardens and
Parks Victoria.
26 participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/domainparklands
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