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Ngargee Tree: A Living Aboriginal Landmark
Visit the Ngargee Tree in St Kilda, a sacred Aboriginal meeting place and a symbol of resilience, estimated to be hundreds of years old.
The Ngargee Tree, a majestic red river gum in St Kilda, is a significant Aboriginal meeting place estimated to be hundreds of years old. It stands as a powerful symbol of survival, reconciliation, and the enduring connection of the Boon Wurrung people to this land.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ngargee Tree
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
St Kilda, Victoria, 3182, AU
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Melbourne CBD, take tram number 16 from Swanston Street, tram 96 from Bourke Street, or tram 12 from Collins Street to St Kilda. Alight at a stop near St Kilda Junction. From there, walk south-east along Fitzroy Street. The Ngargee Tree is located behind Junction Oval, near the corner of Fitzroy Street and Queens Way. A single tram fare within Zone 1 is around $5.
Walking
If you are already in the St Kilda area, for example, near St Kilda Beach or Luna Park, head towards Fitzroy Street and St Kilda Junction. Walk along Fitzroy Street in a south-easterly direction, away from the beach. The Ngargee Tree is located behind Junction Oval, near where Fitzroy Street meets Queens Way. The walk from St Kilda Beach is approximately 15-20 minutes.
Driving
If driving, navigate to St Kilda Junction, at the intersection of St Kilda Road, Fitzroy Street, and Queens Way. Limited street parking is available in the area, with hourly rates ranging from $1.90 to $5.40. Alternatively, car parks are available at 600 St Kilda Road ($4 - $48 depending on the hours) , or at the St Kilda Sea Baths ($6 - $20 depending on the hours). From St Kilda Junction, walk along Fitzroy Street towards the Junction Oval. The Ngargee Tree is located behind the oval, near the corner of Fitzroy Street and Queens Way.
Local tips
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Take a moment to pay your respects to the Traditional Owners of the land, the Boon Wurrung people, and acknowledge their ongoing connection to this place.
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Combine your visit to the Ngargee Tree with a walk around Albert Park Lake or a trip to nearby St Kilda Beach.
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Look for the paved seating area behind the tree, which features plaques detailing the history of the Boon Wurrung people.
Discover more about Ngargee Tree
The Ngargee Tree, also known as the Corroboree Tree, is a living landmark with deep historical and cultural significance. Located in St Kilda, near the Junction Oval, this ancient red river gum is estimated to be between 300 and 800 years old. For centuries, it has served as a gathering place for the Boon Wurrung people, the Traditional Owners of the land.
Ngargee is a local Boon Wurrung word for 'a gathering, a celebration of community'. The tree served as a meeting place for the six Boon Wurrung clans and the greater Kulin Nation, functioning similarly to corroboree trees near the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It was a place for songs, dance, conflict resolution, storytelling, and celebrating guests. Even today, Aboriginal elders continue to convene here to discuss important issues, maintaining a living connection to their traditions.
The Ngargee Tree stands as a testament to Melbourne's ancient history and the resilience of the Boon Wurrung people. It has witnessed the turbulent times of European settlement, introduced diseases, and violence that drastically reduced the Aboriginal population. Despite the changes, the tree remains a source of cultural peace and strength, holding spiritual significance for the Boon Wurrung people. The nearby road was even diverted to protect this grand tree.
A brief summary to Ngargee Tree
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