In 1893 the site was part of a larger area divided into settlement blocks, and was known as either the Kialla Village Settlement or Honeysuckle Park. In 1972 the Shepparton Council purchased four of the settlement blocks to be used as landfill. The landfill operated until 1987. In 1994, the site was identified for rehabilitation, and then in 2011 it was redeveloped as a Botanic Gardens.
There are several picnic tables and many options for seating throughout the gardens. The gardens will eventually have permanent toilet facilities, but in the meantime a portable toilet is located behind the shed close to the entrance. Riverside Plaza, the local shopping centre, is only 1 km away and has excellent toilet and café facilities.
People in wheelchairs can access some parts of the Gardens. There is disabled parking close to the entrance of the gardens, however many of the paths are gravel surfaces. There is a granitic path that follows the Rock Wall Garden and links the asphalt zig-zig path at the western end of the Weaving Garden to give access to the lookout on Honeysuckle Rise. The main road to the rise has now been sealed, improving access.
The Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton is a public open space and cannot be exclusively booked.
Should you wish to utilise the Gardens for an event or as a wedding venue, please complete the Event Booking Application Form and other relevant forms available from our Reserve and Park Bookings page.
Booked group tours are available at limited times, according to the availability of volunteers, through the Friends of the Botanic Gardens Shepparton.
Self-organised group visits are at your own liability. Please note any displayed signage onsite, including those regarding construction vehicles.
Please see our Get Involved page. The dedicated crew of the Friends of the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton always welcome new members.
For any enquires relating to holding an event, contact the Greater Shepparton City Council on 03 5832 9700.
For group tours and information about becoming a Friend, email friends.abgs@hotmail.com