We are excited to share that the Zone 1 Texture Garden has received Federal Government funding and is planned for completion in the 2026-27 financial year.

You are invited to share your feedback on the draft concept plan for Zone 1, which has been shaped using feedback received during the 2025 consultation.

What's being proposed?

The Texture Garden is the first area to be constructed as part of the future Tirhatuan Park Sensory Trail.

It is designed to welcome children, carers and families into the experience, inviting hands‑on exploration.

Read about the elements of the proposed design:

The native plant palette has been carefully selected to engage all five senses. The project is being developed in collaboration with the Bunurong Land Council and the City of Greater Dandenong’s Conservation and Education team to embed cultural value, and create opportunities for children to learn about the local native environment.

A central feature that will gradually change over time, weathered by rain and softened through touch, as children engage with it and add water during play.

Mud generated from the rock sculpture can be used for temporary hand‑painting on a nearby wall, with markings designed to wash away in the rain, so the space is always renewing itself.

Framed views connect the garden to the surrounding vegetation, helping visitors feel immersed in a sensory space, while remaining connected to the wider park landscape.

Allows children to gather leaves, flowers and berries from the surrounding native plants to crush, mix and create imaginative potions, drawing out natural scents and oils.

Gravel paths and varied textures encourage slow movement, curiosity and play. Clear pedestrian connections linking the garden to the existing shelter and surrounding areas.

Draft concept plan

Click on the hotspots below to find out more (images shown are indicative examples only)

Zone 1 Texture Garden map

Concept images

Click an image to view it in a larger window (images are provided for concept illustration only).

How to have your say

Consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 27 March 2026.

  • Participate via the short survey below
  • Come along to the community drop-in
  • Email your feedback to openspace@cgd.vic.gov.au
  • Post your feedback to PO Box 200, Dandenong VIC 3175