The Setting

Ruffey Lake Creek provides a perfect "River Jordan' for John the Baptist. Stripped of trees harvested to produce charcoal, the area around Ruffy Lake became an important part of Melbourne's 'fruit bowl'. It is here where the audience follows the action to various settings around the park. Later, in 'Jerusalem', the audience members become part of the scene. Grouped in parallel columns, they line both sides of a palm-strewn path down which Jesus rides on his donkey towards the Temple. Years ago, Monterey Pines were planted to provide windrows for the orchards. Today, those remaining, punctuate the grassy undulations and waterways, sharing this special place with thousands of native plantings, kookaburras and other flora and fauna.