Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Bunurong Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.

Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve is a peaceful, 499-hectare area that has been developed into a place of spiritual and historical importance, as well as providing refuge for native plant and animal species. The extensive park boasts diverse environmental, cultural and historical heritage.

See if you can identify some of the 90 native plant species across three vegetation communities throughout the reserve. Look especially close for the swamp scrub species. Swamp scrub communities have been depleted throughout Melbourne, so the remnants along the Dandenong Creek in the reserve are particularly precious.

As you walk through stands of Flowering Swamp Gum you might encounter thickets of Bare-limbed Swamp Paperbark, glimpse the jewel-like fruit of the Prickly Currant bush, spy the slightly alien leaves of Bidgee Widgee.

Dandenong Police Paddocks Reserve is also home to many native animal populations. Wedge-tailed Eagles and Black-shouldered Kites can often be seen flying overhead, and you might spot Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Swamp Wallabies on early morning walks – just be careful to keep a safe distance.