Brimbank Park

Brimbank Park Information

Things to see and do

- Watch for the many water birds and enjoy the scenic walking tracks or stop in at the cafe

- Enjoy meeting the animals at Horseshoe Bend Farm

- Walk along the Australian Plant Trail and experience the colour and beauty of plants suitable for growing in the Keilor area

- Cycle along the wide paths. The main trail follows the river and forms a circuit of 4.3 kilometres. It links to the Maribyrnong River Trail, making it possible to walk or cycle from Keilor along the river as far as Footscray

Heritage

Brimbank Park was first settled by Europeans in the 1830's, soon after Melbourne was founded. It derived its name from the practice of the locals driving their stock 'around the brim of the bank' of the Maribyrnong River. The rich river flats on the east bank were used for market gardening until 1983. Terraces formed by the eroding river were modified for cultivation.

The Maribyrnong terraces have been closely studied for evidence of Aboriginal occupation. Keilor is one of the oldest sites of human habitation found in Australia. The Keilor cranium, dated to about 15,000 years before the present, was found in 1940 and the Green Gully skeleton in 1965. The excavations came to an end in 1982, but the site uncovered one of the most complete records of Aboriginal occupation over a period of 30,000 years.

Looking after the park

- No dogs near Kulin Wetland nor at Horseshoe Bend Farm. Elsewhere, dogs must be on a leash

- No trail or mini-bikes

- Portable barbecues may be used in designated areas only

For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.