The Malmsbury Botanic Garden is an important 19th Century regional Botanic Garden nestled in the picturesque Coliban River Valley in central Victoria. The Garden is characterised by a wonderful, but ageing tree canopy composed predominantly of exotic tree species.

GbLA worked with their consultant team, including Stephen Fitzgerald Arboriculture to develop a Masterplan for the Botanic Garden.

Key outcomes include:

• Development of a detailed master plan report.
• Liaising with important stakeholders such as the Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Corporation, Friends of Malmsbury Botanic Garden & Environs, Coliban Water, Heritage Victoria and the Malmsbury Historical Society.
• Identification of priority projects, associated costings and area of responsibility within Council.
• Maintaining important views and heritage values whilst improving connections to the Township, historic Town Hall, Coliban River and Malmsbury Common.
• Using Council data to understand existing tree species mix.
• Developing a diverse tree palette to enhance the role of the Botanic Garden under a warmer, drier climate scenario and a priority plan for managing the aging tree population to ensure the Garden meets the needs of future visitors.
• Developing a new stormwater strategy that utilises runoff from the adjacent township to support the Ornamental Lake and adjacent Coliban River.

The enhancement of environmental and aesthetic values within a historic and much-loved landscape, coupled with a pragmatic perspective on how the master plan goals may be achieved characterises GbLA’s approach for this project.

The Malmsbury Botanic Garden Landscape Master Plan has officially been adopted by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council and will provide valuable direction for the future management and development of the Malmsbury Botanic Garden.