Securing the Future of Collingwood Children’s Farm

Collingwood Children’s Farm has announced today a new chapter to ensure it remains open, welcoming, and sustainable for generations to come. 

Over the past year, the Farm has continued to deliver meaningful community impact: caring for animals, expanding accessible gardens, welcoming thousands of children through education programs, and providing a much-loved place for connection with nature.  

At the same time, rising costs, unpredictable weather, and reliance on visitor income have highlighted the need for a more stable long-term operating model. 

 Earlier in 2025, these pressures placed the Farm at risk, prompting the Committee of Management to work closely with the Victorian Government to secure a sustainable future for the site. 

As a result, the Victorian Government has appointed Wallara Australia as the new Committee of Management of the Collingwood Children’s Farm site under the Crown Land Reserve Act.

Importantly, the core purpose and mission of Collingwood Children’s Farm will not change.

The Farm will continue to operate as Collingwood Children’s Farm. A place of inclusion, learning, care for animals, and connection to nature. 

What this means for the community 

  • The Farm remains open and operating as usual 

  • Animals, programs, events, school visits, and bookings continue unchanged 

  • Staff employment is protected, with continuity of roles and conditions 

  • The Farm’s identity, values, and community role are preserved 

Wallara is a well-established Melbourne not-for-profit with experience in inclusive employment, land management, and community services. They have committed to investing up to $1 million over the next 18 months to strengthen staff capability, infrastructure, and long-term sustainability at the Farm. 

This partnership provides the stability needed to protect the Farm’s legacy while supporting its growth as a place where everyone belongs. 

For more information, please see the FAQ, below.

Visitor & Public FAQs

1. What’s changing at the Farm?  

Collingwood Children’s Farm is entering a strategic merger with Wallara Australia Ltd. This change is designed to secure the Farm’s long-term future and strengthen its community and social impact.   

2. Is the Farm closing?  

No. The Farm remains open and will continue operating as usual.  

3. Will my visit be affected?  

No. There are no changes to visitor access, animals, activities, school programs or events as a result of this announcement.  

4. Will there be changes to ticket prices or memberships?  

No changes are being made at this time. Existing tickets, memberships and passes remain valid.  

5. Will my event/wedding/photoshoot be affected?  

All existing bookings will be honored and remain valid.  

6. Why was this merger needed?  

Like many community organisations, the Farm has faced rising costs and financial pressure. The merger provides stability and ensures the Farm can continue welcoming visitors and serving the community into the future.   

7. Will the Farm’s identity change?  

No. The Farm will continue to operate as Collingwood Children’s Farm, with the same focus on community connection, animals, nature-based experiences and education.  

8. Is the government involved?  

Yes. Because the Farm is located on Crown land, the Victorian Government has appointed Wallara as the new Committee of Management to support the site’s long-term viability.   

9. Who is Wallara Australia Ltd?  

Wallara (www.wallara.com.au) is a well-established Victorian not-for-profit disability service provider. They operate a range of inclusive enterprises across Melbourne, including cafés, land management services and Sages Cottage, a 38-acre inclusive farm on the Mornington Peninsula (www.sagescottage.com.au).   

As part of their commitment, Wallara will invest up to $1M over the next 18 months in the Farm.  

10. What does this mean for the community?  

The merger helps ensure the Farm remains a much-loved community place into the future, while creating opportunities for expanded community programs, increased accessibility and inclusive employment.  

11. Where can I find more information?  

Updates will be shared through the Farm’s website, social media, and on-site communications. Staff are also available to assist with general questions during your visit.  

Annual General Meeting - Member Information 

Members are invited to attend the Collingwood Children’s Farm Inc. Annual General Meeting, where resolutions relating to the governance transition, will be considered. 

Date: Wednesday, 28 January 2026 
Time: 6:30 pm 
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams 

Only active members who have paid their membership fees in full before the AGM are eligible to attend and vote. 

At the AGM, members are being asked to consider resolutions that enable: 

  • the transfer of the Farm’s business and assets to Wallara Australia Ltd; and 

  • the winding up of Collingwood Children’s Farm Incorporated once all liabilities are satisfied. 

Members are not being asked to vote on or ratify the Government’s decision to appoint a new Committee of Management. 

Full AGM documentation, voting eligibility details, and proxy information has been made available to eligible association members.