Collingwood Children's Farm

On the picturesque banks of the Birrarung (Yarra) River lies a wonderful corner of rural tranquility — Collingwood Children's Farm. This non-profit organization, located just 4 kilometers from the bustling metropolis, is the oldest working children's farm that Australia has to offer. This place has become a true sanctuary for residents of Richmond and the surrounding areas looking to swap the asphalt for soft pasture grass for a while.

Collingwood Children's Farm. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The farm occupies part of the historic Abbotsford Convent complex and is one of the oldest agricultural sites in Victoria. It upholds traditions of sustainable farming and social inclusion, making the project not just a tourist attraction but an important community hub. It is a space where children and adults can learn where their food comes from and feel a connection to the land.

Among the farm's inhabitants, you can find both familiar domestic animals and rare breeds. Here live cows, sheep, goats, horses, peacocks, and even funny guinea pigs. The farm harmoniously combines a working homestead with vegetable patches, flower gardens, and a cozy cafe, creating an atmosphere of authentic country life within the city limits.

To clarify details before your visit or to book spots for events, you can use the following contact information:

The main reason to visit the farm is the opportunity for hands-on contact with animals. At 10:15 AM and 4:00 PM, sessions are held where visitors can pet and brush the cows. Interaction is encouraged: you can feed the curious chickens, play with the goats, and watch the stately peacocks and geese that roam freely throughout the grounds.

For curious guests, farmers often give short talks about the life of bees in their hives and how to care for plants. Walking through the many gardens, you will see not only decorative flowers but also community plots, vineyards, and sections with traditional Australian products. It's a great place to see the entire food production cycle with your own eyes.

A special area for creativity and relaxation is set up in an old barn, where children can read books or do crafts. After a busy walk, it's worth stopping by the local farm cafe to enjoy a fresh lunch or a cup of coffee surrounded by nature, watching the steady rhythm of life on this welcoming homestead.

The farm is located at 18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford, just four kilometers from Melbourne's Central Business District. Getting here by public transport is quite simple: you can take tram No. 70, 75, 86, or 109 and get off at the Victoria Park Drive (Hoddle Street) stop, after which a walk to the gates will take about 5–10 minutes. Buses and trains traveling to Collingwood or Abbotsford stations are also convenient options.

For those who prefer an active lifestyle, walking or cycling is a great choice. The route from the city center along the banks of the Yarra River via scenic trails takes about 50 minutes. If you plan to arrive by taxi or use car-sharing, look for the historic Abbotsford Convent complex, which is located in the immediate vicinity.

Driving your own car should be done with caution, as parking spaces in this area are very limited. It is recommended to prioritize eco-friendly transport or plan your visit on weekdays when the parking demand is lower.

The history of this piece of land dates back to the deep past when its traditional owners were the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people. With the arrival of European settlers in 1836–1838, active farming began here, making this site one of the oldest continuously used farming areas in the state of Victoria.

In 1863, the Sisters of the Good Shepherd settled here, establishing a convent that eventually grew into the largest charitable institution in the Southern Hemisphere. At its peak, the complex housed up to 1,000 people who were completely self-sufficient thanks to their own dairy farm, orchards, vegetable gardens, and poultry farm. In 1974, the government purchased the land from the religious community.

The modern chapter began in 1979 when a local social worker proposed creating a children's farm to give urban kids a chance to connect with nature. In 1997, thanks to determined protests from local residents, the area was saved from development, preserving this unique green oasis for future generations. Today, the farm continues its mission by supporting volunteer programs and teaching the principles of sustainable farming.

To leisurely explore the entire grounds and enjoy plenty of time with the animals, a typical visitor will need about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to peek into the barn, walk through the gardens, and take a few memorable photos.

Families with small children or groups should allow up to 4 hours. Participating in daily farm activities, such as brushing the cows or feeding the birds, along with a mandatory break for lunch or coffee at the local cafe, makes the visit more fulfilling and longer.

The farm warmly welcomes visitors every day, operating seven days a week from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. This allows you to plan your visit on weekdays and public holidays alike.

Given that special events or educational programs may be held on the grounds, it is recommended to check the official website before your trip for the current schedule and admission prices.

The farm's location in a historic district makes it easy to combine animal encounters with visits to other interesting local spots. A walk through the surrounding area will reveal historic estates and unusual monuments from the industrial era.