'Arboretum' is a Latin word meaning a place for trees and an Arboretum can simply be called a 'tree museum'.

Things to Do


* Open daily with free admission, there are many things to see and do at the RJ Hamer Arboretum.

* The picnic area with free electric barbecues is a great place to meet with family and friends.

* Stroll, jog or run through the mix of exotic and native tree species or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views across the Yarra Valley out to the Warburton Ranges and beyond.


Heritage


The RJ Hamer Arboretum land is a small part of the original Dandenong and Woori Yallock State forest, proclaimed over 110 years ago. A succession of fires destroyed the original eucalypt forest and during 1948 -1955 softwood trees were planted on site as part of plans to improve Victoria's timber supplies.

The fires of 1962 destroyed the majority of these post war plantings and the government then investigated the future use of the area. Plans were developed for the establishment of an exotic forest Arboretum to be used as part of a firebreak for the Olinda township. The RJ Hamer Arboretum is the first known occasion in which a forest style Arboretum was completely established by planting. A basic planting design was completed in 1970 and planting was carried out for the next 15 years.

Local directions

The RJ Hamer Arboretum is located about 2 km east of the township of Olinda along Chalet Road (Melway ref: 122 B9).

Facilities

Activities

Additional business information

Looking After the Park
* Take your rubbish with you. * Dogs are allowed in the arboretum but must be on a leash at all times in order to protect the wildlife. No other pets are permitted in the arboretum. * No fires, including barbecues, may be lit on days of Total Fire Ban. * All plants and animals are protected. * Leave the gardens as you find them.