Petty's Orchard, Templestowe

In a part of town once filled with orchards and farms, Petty's Orchard is one of the last remaining. Managed by Parks Victoria, the property is leased to the Heritage Fruit Society, a group of volunteers dedicated to conserving heritage (heirloom) fruit varieties. They manage the Demonstration Orchard and Commercial Orchard, hold working bees on the orchard and offer tips on maintaining your own fruit trees at home.

 

There is a mini museum set up in an old shed - filled with farm machinery, information boards and historical photographs of the area.

From the driveway, there is access to walking trails, a bird hide and wetlands. Kangaroos are often in the orchard, as well as many bird varieties and I spied a blue-tongue lizard on the way out. I haven't walked the trail - yet - but I will do during the cooler months. Watch this space...

Yarra Organics operates the shop and cafe at Petty's, stocking a big range of organic fresh foods and dried goods, at competitive prices. Apples, pears and stonefruits grown in the orchard are available to purchase, along with many other locally grown items.

What: Petty's Orchard

Where: Homestead Rd, Templestowe

When: Thurs - Sat 9:30am to 5:30pm / Sunday 10-4:30

Why: Orchard, Organic produce, bushwalk

How Much: FREE Working Bee 1st and 3rd Wednesday, 9am-11am - see Petty's website for details. FREE to walk around the park - see Parks Vic website for map.