New Farm Park

Spanning a massive 15 hectares, this park boasts rolling green hills, magnificent rose gardens, a cultural centre as well as farmers' markets, designated barbecue areas and children's playgrounds.Originally, New Farm Park was a farm which was cultivated to provide food for a convict settlement that had been founded on the Brisbane River. In 1846 it became the site of a racecourse and was eventually acquired by Brisbane City Council in 1913 to become the public park it is today.Whether you visit the park to kick back and relax in the sunshine, or avail of the sporting facilities on site, it is easy to see why New Farm Park is a much loved recreational site for residents and tourists alike.Read a book under the shade of a tree down by the riverside, join in a tai-chi class in the forested area or amble around the grounds admiring the enormous fig trees and beautiful horticulture.For the active visitor, you can avail of any of the sporting facilities on offer in New Farm Park including basketball courts, soccer pitches, volleyball and tennis courts.Perfect for picnicking, bring a packed lunch or avail of the many on-site barbecue facilities. A firm favourite among younger visitors is the playground that is shaped like a small fort. They’ll entertain themselves for hours on the many swings and play attractions here. Toddlers are accommodated too with a separate area for younger kids.Every second Saturday of the month, near the Powerhouse building, New Farm Park hosts a wonderful farmers' market, offering a wide range of gourmet meats, fresh tropical fruit, flowers and crafts.New Farm Park is 32 kilometres from downtown in the suburb of New Farm. Parking is free but there is also a ferry station and bus stop nearby. The park is open all day and night. Free admission to all, however tennis courts will have to be pre-booked and pre-paid.