Route 12 is a 17km sign posted tour incorporating Frankston’s popular and diverse attractions including bushlands, historic mansions, galleries and more.
The drive begins at the Frankston Arts Centre, the cultural and entertainment mecca for Southern Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. The Frankston Arts Centre also incorporates Cube37, Frankston’s newest and most innovative art venue.
Next stop is the historic Ballam Park Homestead, where visitors can step back in time and explore one of the oldest homesteads in the area which features displays of lace and gowns from bygone eras.
At McClelland Gallery you will be able to stimulate the senses by wandering through the Gallery’s stunning sculpture park, relaxing by the tranquil lake vista and savouring the Gallery’s exhibitions. Having enjoyed a visit to McClelland Gallery, put on your walking shoes for a wander through Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve. Located on 214 h, many rare tree and native orchid species are located on this reserve. Explore the heathland on well-maintained & sign posted tracks.
The Reserve is an island of relatively undisturbed natural bushland surrounded by the developing suburbs of Frankston and Langwarrin, but it had a more colourful past. Established in 1886 the Langwarrin Military Reserve was used for various activities by the Victorian Colonial Defence Forces. In April 1889, for instance, 2095 men were engaged in manoeuvres for 4 days, using 669 horses and 29 wagons and during WW1 German POWs were detained there.
This area is now ideal for quiet recreation – walking, nature study and photography. The Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve is a very important habitat for native fauna and you may see koalas, brown bandicoots and swamp wallabies with a total of 94 bird species recorded
Finish off the drive with a visit to Mulberry Hill, a delightful 1926 American colonial style home, bequeathed to the National Trust by artist Sir Daryl & author Joan Lindsay (Picnic at Hanging Rock). The home is just as the Lindsay’s left it. Peruse the artwork in the house including works by Daryl Lindsay, Joan Lindsay & gifts to the Lindsays from the likes of renowned artists Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan, Rick Amor & more.
If you are interested in finding out more about Frankston culture and heritage call the Frankston City Council for a Frankston On the Bay Visitor Guide on 9784 1988.
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