Garden Detectives: Nature Scavenger Hunt

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Two children looking through the water

Become a Garden Detective these school holidays and uncover the hidden wonders of the Heritage Hill gardens. 

Children receive their own Garden Detective card and set off on an imaginative scavenger hunt through the historic grounds, searching for natural treasures, curious textures and tiny signs of life. 

Along the way they might find a leaf with a surprising scent, hear something buzzing in the garden beds, discover colourful plants, or spot the patterns hidden in tree bark. 

Designed for children to explore at their own pace, this self‑guided activity encourages observation, curiosity and a deeper connection with nature. Young detectives can draw or tick off the clues as they go, before returning to the activity table to collect their special Garden Detective sticker. 

Perfect for curious explorers aged two and up, this adventure invites children to see the garden from a whole new perspective.

Free event. Drop-in during open hours (10am-2pm) on Wednesdays or Thursday during the school holidays (23, 24, 30 September and 1 October).

While you are at Heritage Hill, we invite you to discover more at The Secret Life of Gardens exhibition running from 16 September 2026 to 4 February 2027.

Accessibility

We warmly welcome visitors with disabilities and assistance dogs. While the historic houses offer some degree of accessibility, there are uneven paths and steps throughout the gardens that may be difficult for those with wheelchairs, mobility aids and strollers. Please speak with staff for assistance during your visit.  

Date and Time

Open: 10am-2pm

Drop in during opening hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays during the school holidays (23, 24, 30 September and 1 October) 
 

Date and Time
-
Location
Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens
66 McCrae Street, Dandenong
Cost of Event (if any)
Free event. Drop-in during opening hours.
Contact Details
Cultural Heritage Team
8571 1000
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Add to Calendar 2026-09-23 10:00:00 2026-09-23 10:00:00 Garden Detectives: Nature Scavenger Hunt Become a Garden Detective these school holidays and uncover the hidden wonders of the Heritage Hill gardens. Children receive their own Garden Detective card and set off on an imaginative scavenger hunt through the historic grounds, searching for natural treasures, curious textures and tiny signs of life. Along the way they might find a leaf with a surprising scent, hear something buzzing in the garden beds, discover colourful plants, or spot the patterns hidden in tree bark. Designed for children to explore at their own pace, this self‑guided activity encourages observation, curiosity and a deeper connection with nature. Young detectives can draw or tick off the clues as they go, before returning to the activity table to collect their special Garden Detective sticker. Perfect for curious explorers aged two and up, this adventure invites children to see the garden from a whole new perspective.Free event. Drop-in during open hours (10am-2pm) on Wednesdays or Thursday during the school holidays (23, 24, 30 September and 1 October).While you are at Heritage Hill, we invite you to discover more at The Secret Life of Gardens exhibition running from 16 September 2026 to 4 February 2027.AccessibilityWe warmly welcome visitors with disabilities and assistance dogs. While the historic houses offer some degree of accessibility, there are uneven paths and steps throughout the gardens that may be difficult for those with wheelchairs, mobility aids and strollers. Please speak with staff for assistance during your visit.   Australia/Melbourne public

If you require additional assistance to participate, please get in contact with us.

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