Fun and festivities celebrating the Southern Brown Bandicoot at Cranbourne Gardens
Saturday 11 April 2026
to Sunday 12 April 2026
10:00am - 4:00pm
Cranbourne VIC 3977, Australia
Free
Step into the enchanting world of the Southern Brown Bandicoot at the Big Bandicoot Backyard event. This family-friendly celebration invites you to explore the natural habitat of this unique marsupial through art, theatre, and interactive activities designed for all ages.
Enjoy a beautiful sculpture created from natural materials by talented artists Darryl Cordell, Vanessa Ellis, and Trinia Gaskell, symbolizing the cozy homes of bandicoots in urban Melbourne. Experience the mini urban landscape Wild City by artist Kathy Holowko, where wild animals are treated as citizens.
Watch the award-winning theatre ensemble Born in a Taxi perform a captivating southern brown bandicoot inspired show. Join in craft and science activities to discover the fascinating world of native marsupials and learn how to protect these curious creatures.
The event runs over a weekend packed with walks, talks, performances, and hands-on activities celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Australian Garden. It’s a perfect outing for families looking to engage with nature and local wildlife in a fun, educational setting.
Activities include:
- Viewing the bandicoot sculpture and Wild City urban landscape
- Theatre performances by Born in a Taxi
- Craft and science workshops focused on native marsupials
- Guided walks and talks about People, Plants, and Place
All activities are free and designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for children and adults alike.
The event is held at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, a beautiful natural setting ideal for family exploration. The gardens provide accessible paths and facilities to ensure a comfortable visit for all attendees.
Located in Cranbourne, Victoria, the gardens are easily reachable by car and public transport. Ample parking is available, and the venue encourages visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings while learning about local wildlife.
This is a free event suitable for families and children of all ages. It celebrates local wildlife and the environment, promoting awareness and conservation of the southern brown bandicoot.
Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor activities. Bring water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure to fully enjoy the experience.
The event acknowledges and respects the traditional owners of the land, Casey’s Aboriginal communities, and their rich cultural heritage.
There is no cost to attend the Big Bandicoot Backyard event. No prior booking is required, making it easy for families to drop in and enjoy the festivities at their convenience between 10:00 and 16:00 on both days.
For more information, visitors can check the City of Casey website or contact the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne directly.
