Shire Easter closure

The Shire offices and Local Connection Points will be closed from Friday 3 April and will reopen on Tuesday 7 April 2026.
Some staff will be working over this period. If your query is urgent, please call 1300 850 600.

See the changes to services over Easter

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The Briars

Welcome to the Briars! Take a walk through the Wildlife Sanctuary, enjoy a BBQ with family and friends, or explore the historic outbuildings and heritage gardens around the Briars Homestead. Planning a special occasion? You can now book one of our unique venues for engagements, weddings, birthdays or memorials using our new online platform.

Please Note
Due to the sensitive natural environment dogs are prohibited from The Briars. Dogs may be walked on lead along Balcombe Creek trail and within the The Community Forest Dog Off-Leash Area on Nepean Highway, opposite Balcombe Grammer. For off-leash alternatives, please visit Off Leash Areas

About The Briars

The Briars in Mount Martha is a much-loved conservation park on the Mornington Peninsula. Set across 230 hectares, it’s home to local history, diverse native flora and fauna, and plenty to see and do.

The Wildlife Sanctuary

Walk among wildlife - Follow trails through 90 hectares of woodland and wetlands. Head to the lookout point or stop by one of the bird hides and you may spot wallabies, emus, kangaroos or koalas along the way.

Wildlife Eco Explorer Holiday Program

Do you have a child who loves nature, exploring, adventure, has a
fun sense of curiosity? Then the Briars School Holiday Program, Wildlife Eco Explorers, will be perfect for them.

What's On at The Briars

Find out about all of the events and school holiday activities available at the Briars. Make sure you check out our special events!

Weddings at The Briars

The Briars offers a range of beautiful ceremony spaces, including a marquee with views over the vineyard and rolling hills, as well as a variety of picturesque lawn areas. If you're looking for a venue that's unique, memorable, and easy to make your own, you’ll find it at The Briars.

Book a Briars venue

Whether you're planning a wedding, birthday, memorial or community event, we have a range of unique spaces available for hire across the property. From heritage gardens and open lawns to our marquee and outdoor gathering areas, there's a space to suit every occasion.

Education Programs at The Briars

Welcome to the largest outdoor classroom on the Peninsula. The Briars offers a range of education programs for Foundation to Year 6, as well as some specialty programs for secondary students. Discover education at the Briars.

The Briars Homestead and Gardens

The Briars Homestead is one of the oldest surviving homes on the Mornington Peninsula. It stands as an example of how early European settlers adapted to life in a new land, shaping a home that reflects both resilience and history.

Briars Nursery

The Briars Nursery specialises in beautiful plants indigenous to the Mornington Peninsula, along with a range of Australian natives, all ready to thrive in your garden. Orders are welcome by phone or email.

Beautiful walks at The Briars

Explore the walking trails at The Briars, both within the Wildlife Sanctuary and around the property.

Briars Master Plan

The Briars Master Plan reflects the shared vision of Council and the community for the future of The Briars. Shaped by community input, the plan aims to protect, celebrate and enhance the natural, cultural and heritage values of this much-loved local treasure.

Briars By Night Projection Trail

Take a self-guided tour around the Heritage Homestead outbuildings and discover the stories of its past residents, along with the rich history that surrounds The Briars.