Wheelers Hill can be explored from two different perspectives: architecture and photography at the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh), and nature trails and places to relax in Jells Park. The following places offer concrete points of interest within the destination.
Architecture and site history at MAPh
The original section of the MAPh building was designed by Harry Seidler and is the only formal art gallery space designed by Seidler. The building was extended in 2000 by Cox Sanderson Ness. This makes a clear chronological distinction tangible: the original design and the later additions belong to different construction phases, which together make up the museum’s architecture. Those interested in architecture can therefore focus not only on the name of a single architect, but also on the building’s history of expansion.
MAPh is set in landscaped grounds overlooking the Dandenong Ranges. The architecture and the landscaped setting offer two different perspectives on MAPh and its location. The architecture draws attention to the building, while the view of the Dandenong Ranges highlights the surrounding landscape.
Jells Park: wetlands and birdwatching
In Jells Park, a nature reserve trail runs through wetlands and billabongs along the eastern shore of Jells Lake. The nature trail also passes through these landscape features; a bird hide along the trail provides a vantage point for observing native birds. The route is therefore defined by more than its location along the lake shore: wetlands, billabongs and birdwatching add further natural highlights. Those interested in waterscapes and native birds will find specific points of interest here.
Trails, play areas and picnic spots
The trails can also be distinguished by their described features. The nature reserve trail is defined by the eastern shore, wetlands and billabongs. The Dandenong Creek Trail also runs through Jells Park; near Nortons Park, it connects with the Blind Creek Trail. These are different points of reference: one route focuses on the lake shore and wetland landscape, while the other features the explicitly named connection between two trails. This distinction can help you decide which kind of trail to focus on.
The park also has named play and picnic areas for visitors with other interests. Jells Playscape and Jells East playground are play areas. The Pines is a shaded picnic area, while The Elms is a picnic area with lake views. If you are choosing between the two picnic spots, the specific difference is shade or a view of the lake. The play areas offer another focus in the park, with places to play alongside the distinct features of the picnic spots.
Consider which of these themes you would like to shape your stay, and use them as a guide when choosing a hotel.
Discover more destinations: Seville, Kensington, Highett, Point Cook, St Albans, Aspendale, Brighton, Moorabbin.
For the main travel overview: Melbourne.
