I’ve placed a question mark in the title of this post because the bud is so small and it may prove to be something else. However, from a little bit of research, I’m fairly confident that I’ve finally found a Helmet Orchid! Looking at other photos on the Internet, I think I have enough information to say that it is a Slaty Helmet Orchid. In our area, this species apparently continues to flower until September, so I hope to find many more over the next few months.
When the flower fully opens, it will resemble a helmet with the ‘mouth’ showing as rounded white interior, with purplish colours around the rim.
Hopefully these orchids are too small to attract Swamp Wallabies and I will get to see it in full flower to confirm the identification. I’m very happy to hear from others who may be able to confirm or correct the ID from the photograph below.
Fifteen Acres 
Nice find.
Thank you – does that mean my ID is correct or do I still need to wait and see? 🙂 Lisa
Yes it is a helmet orchid but I’m not willing to call which one it is – not so confident about the Victorian orchids.
That’s OK. Thanks for confirming it is a Helmet Orchid. I’ll just have to wait patiently for the flower to open and try to protect it from wildlife.
So wish I could find a helmet orchid. I am in Mansfield Vict. Any ideas where I could look Lisa?
I wish I could advise you – please note that I am en enthusiastic learner where orchids are concerned! I’ve been looking for ages, and it is just recently I’ve begun to notice them. Ours are just off the side of the walking track. Some are sheltered under bracken and others out in the open. Also, many around the base of some of the larger trees. As far as I can see, the vast majority are on soil, and are not growing in moss or anything. According to the book I have “Native Orchids of Australia” by David L Jones, the Slaty Helmet Orchid prefers moist growing conditions on slight slopes. Not all of ours match that description. Anyway, I hope that helps! Lisa