Helms Arboretum

This huge reserve is a botanist’s dream. Divided into two parts, a pine plantation and the arboretum, it was originally established in the 1970s to work out which types of trees and plants would grow in the region.

With the bush pockets accessible by gravel roads, it’s perfect for cruising in your car. However, by parking your vehicle near the picnic area and either walking or riding your bike, you get a much more immersive experience.

There are ample opportunities to indulge in photography and bird observing, and it’s a brilliant place for a picnic lunch or afternoon tea.

Helm’s Arboretum is home to eucalyptus, melaleucas, casuarinas, acacias, and many exotic pines. During spring you’ll find spider orchids, cowslips, and leschenaultia, enamel and donkey orchids, plus banksia. Red flowering gums in summer, silver princess in late winter, and the glorious royal hakea is on show all year round.