2:00 pm - 3:30pm
Meet outside the Eco Centre, 55 Blessington Street, St Kilda
St Kilda Botanical Gardens were developed in 1860, immediately attracting the rich and powerful who built their grand mansions along Blessington, Tennyson and Dickens Streets to take advantage of the views and peaceful proximity of the gardens. Many of these early residents were integral to Melbourne’s and Victoria’s development and brought with them extraordinary stories. In the 20th century, long after the wealthier cohort fled St Kilda, the garden surrounds housed bohemians and radicals, who were still being extraordinary.
The walk is hosted by committee member Liz Kelly, whose research has uncovered tales of the Ned Kelly trial; Australia’s first ice hockey team; the NSW pastoral lease which had an annoying rocky outcrop called ‘Broken Hill’; the glamorous 1950s-night club; the trial of multiple murderer Martha Needle; and more.
This is a free member only event. Booking essential. As the walk can only cater for 20 people, we have limited bookings to one ticket per member, to ensure more members can join the walk.
The Society runs numerous historical talks and walks throughout the year. Our events are free and open to Society members only. Members receive information about upcoming events through our newsletter. You can join the Society for just $25 per year.