Moama Botanic Gardens is a contemporary regional landscape shaped by the ecologies, histories and cultural narratives of the Murray River corridor. Conceived by Landdance and Memla Landscape Architects, the masterplan reimagines the reserve as a sequence of immersive garden experiences that respond to the distinct character of the Riverina landscape — from river red gum forests and ephemeral wetlands to dry woodland and semi-arid grasslands.  

Rather than adopting the conventions of a traditional botanic garden, the project embraces an interpretive and place-led approach. A network of pathways, gathering spaces and sculptural landscape elements guides visitors through a series of curated environments including the Settlers Garden, Riverine precinct and Cultural Garden, each exploring relationships between ecology, settlement and memory.  

The landscape language is deliberately restrained and robust, combining native planting, textured ground planes and informal structures to create moments of enclosure, openness and seasonal change. Sustainability and low-maintenance design principles underpin the project, with endemic species and passive environmental strategies embedded throughout the gardens.  

Developed in close collaboration with council, community groups and local stakeholders, the Moama Botanic Gardens establishes a new civic landscape for the region — one that is both ecologically expressive and deeply connected to place.