William Ricketts Sanctuary

Following the cyclogenesis storm event of June 2021, William Ricketts Sanctuary remains closed to public access, while Parks Victoria carry out the significant and complex work needed to make the site safe for people to enjoy once more. Please refer to the Parks Victoria website for up-to-date information relating to closures and change of conditions.

Situated in a ferny glade in the Dandenongs, William Ricketts Sanctuary is a place of beauty and tranquillity, featuring extraordinary sculptures of people and animals half-hidden in the natural environment, just waiting to be discovered.

Interconnecting paths take you on a magical tour of cool temperate forest, lush fern gullies, and the 92 striking sculptures, perfect for quiet reflection and contemplation of the vision of artist William Ricketts.

An audio tour bringing to life the work and passion of William Ricketts is available for hire at the sanctuary for a fee of $5.

A gallery featuring additional works by William Ricketts, as well as information on the artist and his sculptures, can be found in the north-west area of the grounds.

Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au