Mooroolbark

Mooroolbark Galleries and Museums

Mooroolbark is a beautiful suburb in the Yarra Ranges Shire, Victoria, Australia. It is conveniently located about 31 km east of Melbourne's Central Business District, making it an easily accessible place for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and tourists alike. The suburb has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to galleries, museums, and historical venues. In this article, we will list and describe some of the most notable ones in and around Mooroolbark.

Galleries

1. Freya's Clay Club Studio
Freya's Clay Club Studio is a pottery studio that offers workshops, classes, and events for people of all ages and skill levels. Located at 18 Edward Rd in Chirnside Park, it is just a short drive from Mooroolbark. Whether you're looking to learn the basics of pottery or to improve your skills, Freya's Clay Club Studio is a great place to start.

2. Yering Station Gallery
Located at 38 Melba Highway in Yarra Glen, Yering Station Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that showcases works of local and international artists. The gallery is situated in a beautifully restored 1859 stone building and features exhibitions that change regularly. The gallery is just 15 minutes' drive from Mooroolbark.

3. Burrinja Cultural Centre
The Burrinja Cultural Centre is a vibrant arts and cultural hub located at 351 Glenfern Rd in Upwey. The centre has a gallery featuring contemporary art exhibitions, a theatre hosting live performances, and a café. The venue is a 20-minute drive from Mooroolbark.

Museums

1. The National Rhododendron Garden
The National Rhododendron Garden is situated at The Georgian Rd in Olinda. The garden is home to over 15,000 rhododendrons and azaleas, making it one of the largest collections in the southern hemisphere. The garden also offers a range of events and guided tours. The garden is about 25 minutes' drive from Mooroolbark.

2. Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead
Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead is a 19th-century homestead located at 71 Wellington Rd in Wandin North. The homestead offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the early settlers in the area and features a museum, farm, and gardens. Mont de Lancey is around 20 minutes' drive from Mooroolbark.

3. Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located at Badger Creek Rd in Healesville. The sanctuary is home to over 200 species of Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas. Visitors can also attend animal presentations and keeper talks. Healesville Sanctuary is approximately 30 minutes' drive from Mooroolbark.

Historical Venues

1. Puffing Billy Railway
Puffing Billy Railway is a heritage railway located at Lakeside Station in Emerald. The railway runs on a 25-kilometre track through the scenic Dandenong Ranges and offers visitors a unique experience of riding on a steam train. Puffing Billy is approximately 30 minutes' drive from Mooroolbark.

2. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is a popular attraction located at 26 Observatory Rd in Mount Dandenong. The venue offers stunning views over the city, a restaurant, gardens and children’s maze. Visitors can also enjoy scenic walks along the nearby trails. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is a 25-minute drive from Mooroolbark.

3. Warburton Waterwheel
The Warburton Waterwheel is a historic site located at the end of Donna Buang Rd in Warburton. The waterwheel was used in the early 1900s to generate electricity and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can also take a stroll along the nearby river walk and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Warburton is approximately a 35-minute drive from Mooroolbark.

In Conclusion
Mooroolbark and its surrounding areas have a lot to offer in terms of galleries, museums, and historical venues. From pottery studios and contemporary art galleries to wildlife sanctuaries and 19th-century homesteads, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's no shortage of culture and history to explore in and around Mooroolbark.