By Tania Martin
HUNDREDS of Melburnians flocked to Olinda last week, braving the winter spell for a free day at the National Rhododendron Gardens.
Gardens’ curator Kirsten Jackson said the turn-out was amazing.
“We weren’t sure how we would go with the weather,” she said. “But it was amazing.”
More than 700 visitors’ spent the day enjoying interactive walks, guided tours and children’s activities.
The face painting was a big hit as well as the wildlife and puppet shows.
Parks Victoria mascot Ranger Roo was also a major highlight for the children.
Visitors even got the chance to get up close and personal with a black-headed python at the snake handler’s tent.
Ms Jackson said the day was a great way for residents and visitors to get back to nature.
Despite numbers being down on last year, Ms Jackson said Parks Victoria couldn’t have asked for a better turn-out.
“Last year we got 900 people through the gate but it was a stunning day and we were really concerned about the weather this year,” she said.
“To get 700 was amazing and everyone had a ball.”
Ms Jackson said it was also an opportunity to get people back to the region following the threat of the February fires.
“It has been quiet but it’s starting to pick up now … it’s good to see people coming back to the area.”
