Birrarung Marr

Birrarung Marr is a riverside park with three distinct terraced levels that feature walking paths, picnic areas, and open spaces for gathering. The different levels create varied views and ways to move through the space while staying close to the river.

The site was developed in 2002, transforming marshy colonial-era land and old railroad yards into a modern public park. This change marked a shift in how the riverbank was used by the city.

The name Birrarung Marr comes from the Woiwurrung language, where Birrarung means river of mists and reflects the connection of the Wurundjeri Aboriginal people to this land. This naming carries meaning for the community that walks through here today.

The park is easy to reach on foot, especially through the William Barak Bridge which connects directly to nearby sporting venues and the city center. The different levels are accessible throughout the day, and there is plenty of space to stop and rest along the way.

The park contains Federation Bells, a series of 39 upturned bronze bells that ring three times daily with different musical pieces. Visitors often gather near these bells or hear them from across the park, making them a distinctive part of spending time here.

Location: City of Melbourne

Inception: 2000

Official opening: 2002

GPS coordinates: -37.81830,144.97300

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52