- Address: 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767, Australia;
- Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au;
- Phone: +61 3 9751 1300;
- Open: 10:00 to 16:30
The William Ricketts Reserve is one of Australia 's most original sights. It is located near the Dandenong mountain, a few kilometers from Melbourne . The reserve is famous not so much for its picturesque nature, as for the original sculptures, arranged here in large numbers. Their number is about 90 pieces. Basically, the sculptures depict people and animals and are made of natural materials - clay, burned to 1200 degrees, and some types of wood.
About the author of sculptures
William Ricketts - the creator of the unusual garden of sculptural masterpieces - was born in Australia in 1898. Most of his life he lived among Australian Aborigines, which was reflected in his work. In 1930, the famous sculptor settled near the Dandenong mountain, and since 1943 Ricketts began creating on the territory of his estate sculptures depicting indigenous Australians and reflecting their authentic culture, way of life and customs, as well as a deep fusion with nature.
What are sculptures?
Ricketts portrayed Australian Aborigines as the spirits of this land. Sculptures emanating calmness and strength, organically look at the background of evergreen ferns, as if being a continuation of the branches of trees. According to the artist, the statues of the aborigines were to become a natural continuation of the natural habitat. The reserve is ideal for relaxation and tunes to the mystical mode. The current water symbolizes the changeability of life, which is why the sculptor had his creations near her.
How to get there?
It is very easy to get to the reserve: in Melbourne you can book a taxi or rent a car and then drive to Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, continuing to go to it until the appropriate signpost. You can also take bus 688 to Croydon station in the city limits and get off at the William Ricketts Reserve.
Useful tips for visitors
Before you visit the sculpture garden, you should familiarize yourself with the recommendations for tourists:
- The sculpture garden is not allowed to organize picnics, so it is not worth taking proper equipment with you.
- Access to the reserve is open from 10 am to 4.30 pm. It is closed for Christmas and at a time when weather conditions can be a danger to travelers.
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