A Trip to a Garden and a Zoo

10 Feb 2026

Maling Combined Probus members enjoy a sunny day at Werribee’s state rose garden and open range zoo, exploring vibrant blooms and observing wildlife in spacious, natural settings.

Members of Maling Combined Probus recently enjoyed a delightful outing to the Victorian State Rose Garden at Werribee, taking full advantage of a perfect sunny day. The group strolled peacefully through the beautifully maintained grounds, home to more than 5,000 roses in full display. Members wandered the vibrant beds in search of their favourite blooms — a true haven for rose lovers.

From there, the group traveled by bus to the Werribee Open Range Zoo. Its vast grounds allowed members to walk past several naturalistic enclosures before stopping for lunch. In the afternoon, a 40-minute Safari Bus Tour, complete with an informative narrator, offered valuable insights into the zoo’s wildlife and conservation work, saving some species from extinction.

Many members commented on how much the zoo has improved since their childhood visits, recalling a time when lions paced in small cages and elephant rides were offered to visitors. Today, animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, antelopes, zebras, and many others appear relaxed and at home in their spacious environments. 

It was a wonderful day filled with conversation, laughter, and a shared appreciation of nature and wildlife.