Explore
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
Nestled beneath the canopy of majestic Mountain Ash trees, the George Tindale Memorial Garden is a serene three-hectare cool-climate haven. Garden enthusiasts will delight in its intimate display of magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas, fuchsias, and hydrangeas, all flourishing in this tranquil setting.
Donated to the State in 1980 by Mrs. Ruth Tindale in memory of her husband, the garden reflects the Tindales’ shared passion for horticulture. The unique collection of rare plants showcases their dedication to plant conservation and botanical beauty.
Thanks to Ruth Tindale’s careful planning, something is always in bloom- with plants flowering in the garden virtually every day of the year. The acquisition and stewardship of George Tindale added a scientific and educational focus, furthering knowledge and appreciation of horticulture.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the garden, pause for a picnic among the blooms, and listen to the bird song that fills the air. Be sure to admire the sculptures on permanent display, including two created by Ruth Tindale herself, a lasting tribute to her artistic and botanical legacy.
Opening hours
Daylight hours, seven days except days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating or severe weather events.
Things To Do
Enjoy a picnic
Friends of George Tindale Memorial Gardens
Weddings
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
William Ricketts Sanctuary
Pirianda Garden
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
How to get there
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
The garden is located at 33 Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke.
Limited car parking is available nearby the main entrance, on Sherbrooke Road and Braeside Avenue.
During busy periods, such as autumn and spring weekends, parking can be limited. If the car park is full, consider visiting another nearby garden, or plan your trip for a weekday or early morning/late afternoon for a quieter experience.
There is no bus or coach parking on site.
When you're there
For itinerary ideas and visitation tips, download the Explore Stunning Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges brochure.
Help us care for the garden:
- Carry in, carry out. No rubbish bins are provided, please take all waste with you.
- Dogs are permitted on leash only.
- Drones cannot be used without a pre-approved permit.
- Protect the plants. Do not pick or remove vegetation, leave it for others to enjoy.
When to go
Need to know
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
Accessibility
Sealed pathways at the upper end of the garden are wheelchair accessible with assistance. These relatively flat paths provide pleasant views and easy access to many of the garden’s key features.
Other areas include unsealed and steep pathways, which are not recommended for wheelchair use or people with limited mobility.
A designated accessible toilet is located near the main entrance for visitor convenience.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Safety in nature
The garden is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and spiders. Wasps may also be present.
Waterbodies are for display only and are not suitable for swimming; children must be closely supervised at all times. Paths can become slippery when wet, and large trees are prominent throughout the garden.
Pirianda Garden is in the Central fire district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check the Fire Danger Rating on the VicEmergency website, their smartphone app or call their Hotline on 1800 226 226.
This garden closes on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating or during severe weather events for visitor safety.
Weddings
Thinking of holding a wedding ceremony or taking wedding photography in the garden? Find out more about wedding permit applications and guidelines.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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George Tindale Memorial Gardens
George Tindale Memorial Garden Visitor Guide & Map
Please find attached the current George Tindale Memorial Garden Visitor Guide and park map:Attachments: Park-note-George-Tindale-Garden (382KB)
How we keep it special
The land now known as the George Tindale Memorial Garden was first identified as a Crown Grant in 1892 and occupied by Captain Joseph Pallant, a merchant navy officer. For many years, the property was affectionately known as Pallant’s Hill.
According to a letter held in the garden’s archives from Chloe Kirkhope, the existing house and garden were established in 1918. The property soon became a popular destination for visitors, including Prime Minister Billy Hughes and his distinguished guests: the Prince of Wales (later, briefly, King Edward VIII) and Lord Mountbatten.
In 1958, Dr George Tindale, a scientist from the Scoresby Research Station, purchased the property with assistance from his colleague Rod Cantrill. Under Tindale’s care, the garden took on a new life as a centre for scientific and horticultural exploration, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing botanical knowledge.
Following George’s passing, his wife Ruth Tindale generously donated the garden to the Victorian Conservation Trust in 1980, in memory of her husband.
Today, the Friends of George Tindale Memorial Garden continue to nurture and preserve this remarkable place. Some members were personal friends of George and Ruth, and their ongoing dedication ensures the Tindales’ legacy of beauty, education, and conservation lives on.