Installation of Deer proof fence to protect the rhododendron gardens.

The Australian Rhododendron Society of Victoria established the National Rhododendron Garden in 1960 and we maintain a vast collection of Rhododendrons that has worldwide significance.

Over the last few years there has been a significant rise in the feral deer population which is now impacting the gardens with deer overfeeding on the plants in the gardens leading to losses of rare species and hybrids that are now eroding the viability of the collection and destroying the visual beauty of parts of the garden which we believe will eventually translate to lost visitor numbers and reduced visitation.

The aim is to protect the integrity of plantings from being destroyed by feral deer.
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden features one of the largest collections of Rhododendrons and cool climate trees and shrubs in Australia, the gardens are the premier open garden and drawcard in the Dandenong Ranges (free entry) signifying the popularity of the region through the gardens' rich history and floral displays. They bring thousands of visitors to the Hills every year, providing economic benefits to the surrounding towns and villages in the Dandenong Ranges supporting employment in cafes, restaurants, gift shops and tourist-based businesses.