William Ricketts Sanctuary

William Ricketts Sanctuary is one of the most unique and spiritual attractions in the Dandenong Ranges. Located on the slopes of Mount Dandenong, this peaceful sanctuary combines art, nature and culture in a rainforest setting.

Visitors walking through the sanctuary will discover a series of remarkable clay sculptures hidden among ferns, moss-covered rocks and towering trees, creating a truly memorable experience.

The sanctuary was created by Australian sculptor William Ricketts, who lived in the area for many years and developed a deep appreciation for Aboriginal culture and the natural environment. Between the 1930s and 1960s, Ricketts crafted a collection of sculptures that he placed throughout the forest, blending them carefully into the landscape. Today, the sanctuary contains more than 90 sculptures that depict Aboriginal people, animals and spiritual figures.

One of the most striking aspects of the sanctuary is how the sculptures appear to emerge naturally from the surrounding rock and earth. Many of the clay figures are embedded in stone walls or tree trunks, giving the impression that they are part of the forest itself. As visitors follow the winding paths through the sanctuary, they encounter these artworks unexpectedly, adding to the sense of discovery and quiet reflection.

The sculptures were inspired by Ricketts’ travels to central Australia, where he lived with Aboriginal communities. Through his artwork, he hoped to express the connection between people, culture and the land. The sanctuary reflects this philosophy by encouraging visitors to slow down, observe their surroundings and appreciate the natural environment.

The surrounding rainforest greatly enhances the sanctuary’s atmosphere. Fern gullies, moss-covered pathways, and tall mountain ash trees create a cool, tranquil setting that feels almost mystical. The sounds of birdsong and running water further enhance the peaceful experience as visitors explore the winding walking tracks.

Because of its unique combination of art and nature, William Ricketts Sanctuary is considered one of the most unusual attractions in the Dandenong Ranges. It offers something very different from the region’s gardens, walking trails and scenic lookouts.

For visitors exploring Mount Dandenong, the sanctuary provides a fascinating and thought-provoking stop where art, spirituality and nature come together in a beautiful forest setting.

Help us care for the park

• There are no rubbish bins provided in this garden; carry in, carry out.
• No dogs, cats or other pets are permitted at this site.
• Bicycles, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades are not permitted.
• Drones are not permitted without a pre-approved permit.
• Plants and flowers are protected for the benefit of the community. Leave the plants for others to enjoy.
• Do not feed the wildlife.

Getting There

William Ricketts Sanctuary is located on the slopes of Mount Dandenong in the Dandenong Ranges, around 40 kilometres east of Melbourne. The sanctuary sits along Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and is easily accessible by car, while public transport options require a combination of train and bus connections.

Driving from Melbourne CBD
Driving is the easiest and most convenient way to reach the sanctuary, with the journey usually taking about 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Typical route:

• Leave the Melbourne CBD and take the Eastern Freeway (M3) heading east.
• Continue toward Ringwood.
• Follow Maroondah Highway through Ringwood and Croydon.
• Turn onto Mount Dandenong Road, which climbs into the mountains.
• Continue through Montrose toward Mount Dandenong.
• Follow Mount Dandenong Tourist Road to the sanctuary entrance.

There is a small car park near the entrance to the sanctuary. Because the attraction is popular, parking can sometimes be limited during weekends and public holidays.

Public transport
Public transport is possible but requires a train-and-bus connection.

• Take the Belgrave or Lilydale Line train from Flinders Street Station in the CBD.
• Travel to Croydon or Ferntree Gully Station.
• From the station, catch a bus toward Mount Dandenong or Olinda.
• Get off near the sanctuary along Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and walk a short distance to the entrance.

The total travel time by train and bus is usually around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on connections.

Visiting nearby attractions
Many visitors combine a visit to the sanctuary with other attractions in the surrounding mountains, such as SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, the gardens at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, or the cafés and boutique shops in Olinda and Sassafras.

Because of the winding mountain roads and the number of nearby attractions, driving is usually the most convenient way to reach William Ricketts Sanctuary and explore the surrounding Dandenong Ranges.