The Gardens Magazine Winter 2022, Issue 133

WINTER 22 Issue 133 $9.95

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

FOUNDATION & FRIENDS MARKS A MAJOR MILESTONE

DIGITAL BOTANY • WHAT’S ON • MORIARTY’S MAP • WINTER BLOOMS

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Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

Crow’s Ash, Australian Teak Flindersia australis A large, evergreen tree found in the subtropical forest of northern New South Wales and Queensland, Flindersia australis has a place in early Australian history. Matthew Flinders, the first man to circumnavigate Australia (1801–1802), was accompanied by botanist Robert Brown. While Flinders mapped the coast of Australia, Brown collected almost 4,000 plant specimens. The genus Flindersia was formally described in 1814 in Brown’s journal A Voyage to Terra Australis from specimens collected near Broad Sound, 675 kilometres north-west of Brisbane. Growing to 40 metres tall and handsomely shaped, the top of the leaves are a glossy-green colour while the underside is a pale green. In early spring, the tree is enveloped by terminal inflorescences of small white flowers with a red centre, later developing into unusually shaped seedpods. Excellent specimens of Flindersia australis can be seen in the Connections Garden at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan. The oldest Flindersia australis in existence is in the register of the National Trust of Australia. A forest remnant from early farming and land clearing, this 120-year-old tree remains in a place of honour at Peacehaven Botanic Park in Toowoomba, Queensland.

Carol Griesser, Growing Friends, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

CONTENTS FEATURES 16 Happy Anniversary Celebrating

40 years of Foundation & Friends 23 Digital Botany New connections bring fresh insights 26 Rebuilding a War Zone The Australian Botanic Garden looks to an African Olive-free future

GARDENS NEWS 6 Herbarium A new home

for a precious resource 10 Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Cool beauty

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IN EACH ISSUE 4 Artisans A triumphant return 8 Books Reviews and a chance to win 9 Travel Explore Australia on new

Friends’ tours 12 Artefact Moriarty’s magnificent map 14 First Person Meet Michael Elgey, Curator Manager, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan 29 Plants Some tips on what to look out for this winter 32 What’s on Your guide to activities and events

29 On the co ver

In its 40th year, Foundation & Friends can look back on some remarkable achievements, while contemplating a bright future.

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NEWS

WINTER UPDATE FEMMES’ FLORAL EXTRAVAGANZA

ARTISANS IS BACK

Artisans in the Garden made a triumphant post-COVID return to the Royal Botanic Garden in April, with the event generating in excess of $230,000 in sales.

This year’s exhibition was curated for the first time by Libby Wright and featured a range of artists and artworks, with more than 3,000 pieces presented across mediums such as jewellery, ceramic, sculpture, hand-blown glass and textiles.

More than $50,000 in artworks were sold on a warm opening night event, at which guests enjoyed the opportunity to taste a eucalypt mule cocktail from the Gardens’ new partner Archie Rose Distilling Co. Over the nine days the exhibition ran, Foundation & Friends volunteers also managed a café, which contributed almost $6,000.

The success of the event comes just six months after an online-only version of Artisans exceeded expectations by delivering more than $100,000 in sales, with smaller, easily shipped works such as homewares and jewellery proving popular to an Australia-wide audience.

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Exhibition Project Manager Julia Sparkes confirmed that Artisans will be back at the Royal Botanic Garden in late October – the first time two Artisans exhibitions have taken place in the same year.

"The success of our first event shows that people are exceptionally eager to reconnect with the Gardens by supporting events such as Artisans," says Sparkes.

"I’m confident that enthusiasm will flow through to October, when Artisans will celebrate its 21st anniversary. To mark the occasion, we will be inviting 21 artists, whose work has spanned the history of the event, to take part. In addition, we will be displaying work by some exciting upcoming artists.”

FEMMES 19–28 AUGUST

Entry $20 adults / $10 seniors & children The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

ARTISANS IN THE GARDENS 29 OCTOBER–6 NOVEMBER 10AM–4PM Opening Night: 28 October Lion Gate Lodge, Royal Botanic Garden botanicgardens.org.au/artisans

Jane Austen, Petunia's Flowers

Photos: Fleurs de Villes, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

Lisa Hoelzl

The Royal Botanic Garden will host an eye-catching exhibition in August showcasing the unique work of Sydney’s most creative florists.

Femmes, curated by Fleurs de Villes in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, will be a 10-day floral exhibition celebrating “strong, remarkable women”.

Created in 2016 by two Canadian friends, Fleurs de Villes organises floral exhibitions in major cities around the world. In each destination, the company invites local florists, designers, growers and nurseries to create floral couture “beyond the bouquet”. As well as showcasing the work of Sydney florists, the event will offer a range of pop-up activations, including flower-market stalls, floral-themed cocktails, workshops, talks by expert scientists and horticulturists, high teas and bespoke dining experiences.

Foundation & Friends has been nominated as the exhibition's charity partner.

NEWS WINTER WORKSHOP FOR GARDEN ENTHUSIASTS

A series of workshops will provide members with the chance to sharpen their gardening skills this winter.

Three Foundational Gardening Skills workshops, run by the Garden's experts, will take place at the Royal Botanic Garden's Rathborne Lodge between June and August.

Each six-hour workshop will have a different focus, with the first tackling Basic Botany for Beginners (4 June), followed by Soil Science for Gardeners (2 July) and Plant Nutrition and Watering (6 August). Prices start from $162 per workshop for Foundation & Friends members.

Meanwhile, expert horticulturist and Growing Friends volunteer Greg Lamont will explore the Fundamentals of Propagation at the Royal Botanic Garden's Maiden Theatre on 27 August.

The three-hour workshop will look at how to propagate plants from the Gardens' living collections, with instruction on cuttings and gaining an understanding of potting mixes and plant care. The hands-on workshop costs $70 per person for members.

For more information on the workshops see this issue's diary (page 33) or visit botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

SYDNEY SCIENCE TRAIL

As part of this year’s National Science Week in August, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan are creating fun science trails.

The initiatives offer kids the chance to “become a scientist for a day”, with a range of interactive STEM-based activities on offer for all the family, including live experiments, behind-the-scenes tours, and opportunities to meet the Gardens’ scientists and use scientific equipment.

The Royal Botanic Garden Science Trail will be open on Saturday 13 August from 11am–3pm, while the Australian Botanic Garden will unveil its Science Trail on Saturday 20 August from 10am–2pm.

For more information visit botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT

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his July marks 40 years since a passionate and dedicated group of people came together to establish Friends of the Botanic Gardens in Sydney. They came together with a shared vision to protect, promote and support your wonderful Gardens. That vision and those values live on to this day in our organisation, and we see this 40th year as a celebration of the incredible contribution of so many to our organisation.

It is also a year to say thank you – for the many hours of volunteering, for the generous donations, for the sharing of expertise, for the heartfelt passion and for the many enduring friendships.

If you look across the three amazing Gardens, you see the incredible impact of Foundation & Friends everywhere.

We have funded and supported a huge range of diverse projects, from important infrastructure and groundbreaking research, to vital equipment and innovative education programs.

We have helped open up the richness of your Gardens to a huge crosssection of the community, and at times we have had to fight hard to ensure this rich heritage and beauty is protected.

Our function has become even more critical as the Gardens’ vital role in protecting plant life is more important than ever with the growing impact of climate change across the planet.

As I learn more about the innovative scientific work of the Gardens, I see that in many cases the Gardens play an important part as the last line of defence for so many threatened plants. Without the work of our Gardens, supported by Foundation & Friends, many plants would face a very uncertain future.

The theme for our end-of-financial year appeal focuses on the remarkable role our Gardens and scientists play in ensuring the survival of so many threatened species. What brings me hope is that the team at the Gardens know what we need to do. They have the knowledge, skills and capability to ensure the future of our plants – they just need the resources, partners and support to get it done.

As we look forward to the next 40 years, I see us continuing to play such a critical role in the future of your Gardens.

Thank you for being an important part of the Foundation & Friends and for being part of that journey.

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NEWS

The recently unveiled National Herbarium of New South Wales

PROTECTING OUR PAST AND FUTURE

DENISE ORA

Chief Executive of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust “They say it takes a community to raise a child and the same can be said for

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building a new herbarium. Since completing the business case in 2017/18 it has been nonstop. Adding to an already big challenge we decided to go one step further and digitise the collection. I am so proud of the extraordinary efforts from all staff involved. The launch of the Australian Institute of Botanical Science (AIBS) in March 2021 and the completion of the new Herbarium is a clear statement to the world of our commitment to advancing the fundamental knowledge of plants. We will continue the journey of discovering, understanding, and protecting plants, and inspiring the next generation of plant scientists to ensure Australia’s plant species are protected for generations to come.”

DR BRETT SUMMERELL

Chief Scientist and Director Research “When I started as a Science Director in 2004 there were several initiatives that I felt were required to take our science programs to the next level.

We needed to: have a stronger focus on plant conservation, secure new infrastructure to facilitate ex-situ and germplasm conservation, build a

new herbarium to better protect and expand our collection, and unlock the data in the collection for the whole community to use. We have achieved all these goals through the employment of creative scientists, the construction of the Australian PlantBank, and now the new Herbarium and the digitisation of the collection.

These initiatives ensure we stay at the forefront of botanical science nationally and internationally.”

JOHN SIEMON

Director Horticulture “Less than a decade ago we attempted a remarkably similar project in the middle of a global economic downturn.

That project resulted in the globally celebrated PlantBank, which transformed the direction of our plant conservation programs and the way in which our community engaged with our science and facilities. How fortunate we are that with the delivery of the new Herbarium, constructed in the middle of a global pandemic, we also achieved a wonderful upgrade of our conservation nursery facilities.

Combined, these world-class facilities

Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

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fter nearly 170 years residing in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, one of the world’s most significant and precious botanical resources officially moved into its new home last month.

The opening of the National Herbarium of New South Wales at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan brought to conclusion a planning and construction process that began in earnest back in 2018 with a $60 million investment by the NSW State Government.

The collection itself continues to expand, with around 8,000 new plant specimens added every year to the more than one million that now reside in six protective vaults, each featuring precisely controlled environmental conditions.

We asked some of those involved in the Herbarium project to explain, in their own words, what the opening of the new Herbarium means to them personally, and to Australia.

NEWS

'We will continue the journey of discovering, understanding, and protecting plants'

and the talented AIBS staff will be instrumental in leading our response to plant conservation and protecting our plant life for future generations.”

GEORGE SALOUROS

Director, Asset Management, Planning and Projects “As Project Director for the construction of the facilities and the coordination of associated workstreams this sits as a highlight of my career. More than just a building, this whole area represents a further development of the good work done in establishing the Australian PlantBank. It is also a further step in the journey of making the Australian Botanic Garden a world recognised centre for botanical sciences in what is an increasingly westward shift of Sydney’s development. Ultimately this is only one small contribution by me (amongst many others) in a 60,205-year human chain of First Nations and Royal Botanic Garden history, with a horizon stretching far into the future.”

The Herbarium’s ‘green’ design features include solar rooftop panels and rainwater harvesting technology

(L–R) Rob Stokes, NSW Minister for Infrastructure, Cities, and Active Transport, Denise Ora, Chief Executive of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust, and Stuart Ayres, NSW Minister for Western Sydney

JO WHITE

Director Science, Education and Conservation “It has been a privilege to be part of the full journey working with the architects, science team, fellow directors and wider project team in designing and building the new Herbarium. It is a priceless and irreplaceable collection, and the building design reflects world’s best practice in maximising protection. The layout reflects the journey of a specimen, we have world-class science facilities and ample room for future expansion, assisted by the addition of a sixth vault.

As stewards of this remarkable collection we are united in ensuring it is protected for future generations.”

(L–R) Dr Ganesha Liyanage (Rainforest Conservation Scientist) and Dr Marco Duretto (Senior Botanist)

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BOOKS

GUIDE TO NATIVE ORCHIDS OF NSW AND ACT

Lachlan M. Copeland, Gary N. Backhouse CSIRO Publishing RRP: $49.99 This is an essential field guide for orchid enthusiasts, with descriptions of more than 500 species of seasonal ground orchids and 62 species of evergreen tree and rock orchids that occur across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Among them are Australia's tallest, heaviest, smallest flowered, most numerous flowered and most bizarre orchids (including elusive underground species). The 456-page guide also offers more than 600 photographs of wild orchids in their natural habitat (including several species never illustrated before) and distribution maps for almost all species. A botanist specialising in the conservation of rare or threatened plants, Dr Lachlan M. Copeland has over the past 25 years discovered several new orchid species and published more than 45 scientific papers relating to native orchids and other plants of conservation significance.

Co-author Gary N. Backhouse has travelled to most of the major centres for orchid diversity around the world and has photographed over 5,000 species of orchids in the wild.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A BOOK

NATURE STYLE: CULTIVATING WELLBEING AT HOME WITH PLANTS

Alana Langan, Jacqui Vidal Thames & Hudson RRP $34.99 This hardback offers a step-by-step guide to 'plant-styling' a home to promote health, happiness and wellbeing. As well as advice on houseplants and how to style them, the book offers tips on décor and materials, finishes and furnishings – with styling principles and solutions illustrated by more than 120 photographs (many of them featuring the authors’ own houses).

It also shows how natural elements can be effectively and affordably incorporated into any room in the house, including kitchens and bathrooms. Alana Langan is an interior stylist, designer and author whose work has been published in magazines such as Vogue Living and House & Garden, while co-author Jacqui Vidal is a designer and writer.

In 2014 the pair co-founded Ivy Muse, a company that sells and designs functional botanical wares (such as plant stands, pots and ceramics) that "amplify plant-life within a space".

This is the pair's second book, following their best-selling Plant Style: How to greenify your space, released in 2017.

A HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN BIRD ART

Penny Olsen CSIRO Publishing RRP $69.99 The second edition of Feather and Brush features 158 artists and more than 400 beautiful full-colour images, including some rare and never-beforepublished illustrations. As you might expect from a book exploring the rich history of Australian bird art, it offers an enormous variety of styles and techniques, with works by Indigenous artists, naval draughtsmen, naturalists and modern masters. Along the way it maps the role of art and illustration in Australian ornithology, bird watching and conservation. The first edition of this book was published back in 2001, and author Penny Olsen has added new material covering the two decades since, along with an entirely new chapter covering a broad range of contemporary artists. An Honorary Professor in the Division of Ecology, Evolution and Genetics at The Australian National University, Olsen has written more than 30 books on Australia's natural history and its practitioners. Among her most recent publications was Flight of the Budgerigar: An Illustrated History, which featured in our summer 2021/22 edition.

Foundation & Friends has a few copies to give away of the books featured above.

To be in the running to win, just email foundation.friends@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au or write to Letters, Foundation & Friends, Cottage 6, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000 by 8 July. Be sure to include your contact details and which book you would like to receive. In our Autumn 2022 edition we gave members the chance to win The Botanical Art of William T. Cooper (Wendy Cooper), Eye of the calm (Clare Reilly) and The Illustrated Plants Glossary (Enid Mayfield). Congratulations to our winners: Christine Ackers, Carmel Cullen, Roslyn Earp, Toni Lindsay and John O'Neil.

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TRAVEL

TRAVEL WITH FRIENDS AFTER TWO YEARS OF TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS, THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO BREAK FREE. FOUNDATION & FRIENDS IS OFFERING TWO NEW TOURS LATER THIS YEAR FOR MEMBERS WHO WANT TO EXPLORE SOME OF AUSTRALIA’S UNRIVALLED NATURAL ATTRACTIONS.

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

Spring in Woodgreen Garden in Bilpin

Photos: Woodgreen Garden, World Expeditions

GARDENS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS & CENTRAL WEST

26 October–1 November 2022 Grade: Introductory* Accommodation: six nights in three/four-star hotels/motels An intimate seven-day exploration of the gardens of the Blue Mountains and Central West.

Highlights include a special supper and wine tasting at Bishop's Estate, a winery lunch in Orange, the Bathurst Spring Spectacular and a visit to host Mary Moody’s own garden in Blackheath. The tour price includes all park and garden entries, transport via private minibus and accommodation.

Member price: $4,195pp twin share (land content only) Escort: Former ABC Gardening Australia presenter Mary Moody, who first moved to the Blue Mountains back in the 1970s. Mary has written and edited more than 40 gardening books and magazines.

Cradle Mountain

GARDENS AND NATURAL LANDSCAPES OF TASMANIA

18–26 November 2022 Grade: Introductory* Accommodation: eight nights in 3.5–4.5-star properties Tasmania boasts some of Australia’s most beautiful gardens and national parks, as well as a host of historic buildings that date back to the arrival of the first European settlers.

This eight-night tour incorporates guided walking tours around Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and Mount Field National Park, visits to Hobart’s Royal Botanic Garden and MONA, an excursion to Bruny Island and a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Woolmers Estate's historic Rose Garden which encompasses 1.53 hectares.

Member price: $5,995pp twin share (land content only) Escort: Author, artist and Botanic Garden’s guide Sandy Pratten, who has enjoyed a 35-year career as a leading landscape designer.

6–14 May 2023 (eight nights) Led by Relle Mott, a former member of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney's education team, this journey will feature a trek along the ancient landscape of the West MacDonnell Ranges on the Larapinta Trail, staying in award-winning eco-comfort camps.

It will also visit intriguing desert parks and botanic gardens.

Book by 6 Nov 2022.

Member price: $4,690pp twin share (land content only)

TOUR TALK

Maiden Theatre Royal Botanic Garden 26 July, 10.30am–11.30am Join Foundation & Friends and learn about our guided tours planned for 2022/23 and beyond.

This event is free, light refreshments will be available and bookings are essential. Call (02) 9231 8182.

Members can book our tours with confidence, thanks to our flexible cancellations policy and the introduction of a range of COVID safety measures, such as extra cleaning and hygiene protocols. The tours also venture to remote areas, which means social distancing comes naturally, and the guided group sizes are limited to a maximum of 16 people.

For more information or to book please contact us at foundation.friends@ botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au

*These adventures are not suitable for people with limited mobility. They are designed for participants with a reasonable level of fitness and competent swimming ability. Some days may be quite active and involve steep walks. Prepare with some regular moderate exercise.

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IN FOCUS: THE BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN

WINTER BLOOMS BRIGHT SHORTER DAYS AND SOFTER LIGHT REVEAL THE COOL BEAUTY OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN. SENIOR HORTICULTURIST MARION WHITEHEAD REPORTS.

Hamamelis × Intermedia Hamamelis are often called Witch Hazel - a name that derives not from the plant’s magical abilities to treat mild skin conditions and leave you glowing with good health, but from the Old English ‘wice’, meaning pliant or bendable. The botanical name Hamamelis means ‘together with fruit’,

Hamamelis × Intermedia

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as their flowers bloom at the same time as their previous year’s fruit matures.

Their winter blooming flowers are unique, characterised by very fine, crinkly strap-shaped petals that catch the low winter sun and appear to blaze in the afternoon light. Found throughout the Brunet Garden and in the Jungle Lodge, the Blue Mountain Botanic Garden’s Hamamelis collection is a highlight of the cooler months.

Chimonanthus praecox Commonly known as Wintersweet, Chimonanthus praecox hold clusters of delicate cream-petaled, maroon-centred flowers on their bare branches, which catch the sunlight and seem to shine like fairy lights on icy winter days. Luring you up the path in the Blue Mountain Botanic Garden’s Residence Garden, Chimonanthus praecox emit a smell similar to jonquils or lemons, which hangs in the air and is often smelt well before you lay eyes on the sprawling shrub itself.

Edgeworthia chrystantha Dotted throughout the wooded areas of the Brunet Meadow, and a close relative of Daphne, Edgeworthia brings a great deal of winter interest to the area. With spherical inflorescences that are half orange and half white held aloft on bare branches, the Edgeworthia look as though they are holding hundreds of tiny paper lanterns on their naked stems. These flowers emerge from soft, silver buds which form in late summer and are delicately scented. Edgeworthia is commonly known as Paperbush, as the bark is used to make washi, a high quality Japanese paper.

Daphne genkwa While Daphne odora often get all the attention with their divine winter scent, Daphne genkwa put on a spectacular show of hundreds of small light-purple flowers on their bare branches. Flowering in late winter into early spring, Daphne genkwa grace the side of the pathway at the bottom of the Eurasian Woodland and are a frothy lilac delight in the depths of the steely Mount Tomah winter.

Cercis canadensis subsp. texensis Aptly known as Redbuds, Cercis bare reddish-pink buds on their naked branches before the warmer days of spring arrive. A member of the leguminous family Fabaceae, Cercis canadensis subsp. texensis is naturally occurring from southern Oklahoma, through central Texas to northeastern Mexico. Surrounded by wintery-blue and grey basalt, the specimen that graces the lower Formal Garden was wild collected and is a pleasing pink, taking pride of place opposite the Visitor Centre and welcoming guests to the Garden in the depths of winter.

Photos: Shutterstock, Wikimedia © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

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fter the drama and vibrant colours of autumn, it can feel a little sad to be surrounded by the bare branches of winter at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden. When the cooler months arrive, however, the intricate architecture of the deciduous trees is suddenly visible, and the softer winter light falls on the lawns and woodlands in a different way.

If you know where to look, it’s also an opportunity to marvel at the Garden’s winter flowering wonders, which bring their own subtle magic to the shorter days. Following are some my favourites.

IN FOCUS: THE BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN

Cercis canadensis subsp. texensis

‘Edgeworthia bark is used to make washi, a high-quality Japanese paper’

Daphne genkwa

Edgeworthia chrystantha

Chimonanthus praecox

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ARTEFACT

MORIARTY’S MAGNIFICENT MAP AMONG THE DANIEL SOLANDER LIBRARY’S MANY TREASURES IS AN INTRIGUING AND SURPRISINGLY

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he so-called Moriarty Map was initially intended to serve as a plan for a land reclamation of part of Farm Cove and the building of the Sea Wall, but thanks to its remarkable detail, it provides a fascinating snapshot of the Sydney Botanic Garden as it was in 1861.

The government official responsible for creating the map was Abram Orpen Moriarty. Born in Ireland in 1830, he arrived with his family in Sydney in 1843 and by the age of 16 was working as a clerk in the Colonial Secretary’s Department. A rapid advance through the ranks of the colony’s public service resulted in him being appointed chief clerk in the Department of Lands in 1853, and four years later he was commissioner of crown lands for New England and Macleay, as well as police magistrate for Armidale.

In 1859, Moriarty travelled to Brisbane as private secretary to Sir George Bowen, who signed a proclamation – written by Moriarty – creating the colony

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of Queensland. After helping establish the state’s civil service, he returned to Sydney in 1860 and was appointed Chief Commissioner of Crown Lands.

The extent of Moriarty’s involvement in the actual drawing of the map is unknown, but he undoubtedly oversaw the work of the unknown draughtsman in the execution of one of the most interesting and information-rich sources of the Garden’s physical history.

Moriarty’s chart is intriguing because it is not in fact a traditional map – instead it is a hybrid of topographic and pictorial-style maps. To serve as an accurate guide to the building of the Sea Wall, it depicts the Garden in a generally topographic manner, but it is also artistic and enlivened with illustrations depicting the vegetation.

There is a definitive attempt to render, in many cases as accurately as possible, the trees within the Garden’s grounds – differentiating between the native eucalypts such as the ubiquitous Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus teriticornis) and

introduced species such as the conifers – especially the Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla), broadleaf trees such as oak, and the distinctive palms.

Though mostly silhouettes, the illustrations are accurate enough to distinguish individual trees and their approximate locations through the Garden. With their aid we can recognise specimens such as the Wishing Tree, and discern the spread of the original eucalypts and casuarinas throughout the Garden.

The map also depicts the existing and planned paths and carriageways intended to exploit the projected reclamation of land from Farm Cove.

These features helped archaeologists accurately trace the original convict path that was uncovered during deep excavations around the Conservatorium between 1998 and 2001.

Rendered in topographic rather than pictorial form are the main buildings in the Garden and Governor’s Domain, with New Government House accurately portrayed as it was then, sans the portico

Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

METICULOUS MAP OF THE SYDNEY BOTANIC GARDEN CIRCA 1861. MIGUEL GARCIA REPORTS.

ARTEFACT An image of the Garden just a few years after the Moriarty Map was created

which would be erected in 1873.

There is also a unique depiction – rarely represented in maps of the era – of plans for a small military installation on Garden’s land called the ‘Masked Battery’. Located just above Mrs Macquaries Chair, the Battery was a line of naval guns facing outward into Sydney Harbour, specifically towards Fort Denison, a contemporary construction.

Both were built in a hurry during the Crimean War scare of 1853–1856, when it was thought Sydney faced the threat of the imminent appearance of the Russian Fleet off its shores.

The Battery was conceived as part of the primary, layered defence of Sydney Harbour together with Fort Denison, Middle Head and Georges Head. Its six guns were positioned to fire through embrasures in earthworks that effectively ‘masked’ the weapons until attacking ships could be engaged. Demolished in the early 1870s, the Battery’s antiquated cannons were discarded and the emplacement buried.

Other interesting features depicted on the map include government buildings on Macquarie Street such as The Mint, Sydney Hospital and Parliament House, as well as the bulk of old Fort Macquarie, which at the time was still the chief defensive feature of Sydney. Also depicted is the old Director’s Residence, originally sited on the grounds of Rathborne Lodge.

It was demolished in 1875 and the new residence, the Cunningham Building, was constructed at the current location on Mrs Macquaries Road.

And of course, as was intended, the map clearly shows the planned area of the new Sea Wall, which was originally meant to extend from just south of Fort Macquarie, facing all of Farm Cove and then wrapping around Mrs Macquaries Point and partly down the eastern side of Woolloomooloo Bay, just north of the public baths. The enormity of the project can be seen by the depiction of the mudflats, which occupy most of the southern shore of Farm Cove and extend to just south of the Middle Pond.

It is equally interesting to observe the course of the Royal Botanic Garden’s stream, which now empties into the three ponds and out into Farm Cove.

‘The Masked Battery was built when it was thought Sydney faced the threat of the Russian Fleet’ When included in the Moriarty Map, the stream is shown to curve away to the west before emptying into Farm Cove.

The complexities of the project, as depicted on the map, certainly seem to give reason for the 30-year timeline for the building of the wall, which was only completed in 1880.

A section of the Moriarty Map showing the Masked Battery The original version of the Moriarty Map is held in the NSW State Archives. The Library’s copy is separated into 12 sections, each laminated, which unfortunately makes them almost impossible to photograph. Contact the Garden if you would like to arrange a viewing.

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MICHAEL ELGEY CURATOR MANAGER, AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN MOUNT ANNAN

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Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

FIRST PERSON

FIRST PERSON What are your key responsibilities?

Ensuring that all horticulture displays, turfed areas, woodlands and open green spaces within the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan are maintained and presented to their best possible standards to allow for positive stakeholder engagement and appreciation. How do we do this?

By leading a dynamic and highly skilled team of horticulturists, arborists, greenkeepers, landscapers, nursery operators, volunteers plus lots of planning and collaboration across the organisation.

What first got you interested in plants and how did it lead to a career in the field?

I have fond memories of being a very young kid, before I even started school, spending time with my mother in our backyard, where I would climb the lemon tree to pick lemons, collect clover flowers (in an attempt to catch bees), and pick camellias, hibiscus and fuchsia flowers. But I really got into the natural environment later when I would go camping for several days at a time in the Blue Mountains with my father and brothers. I would explore and wonder at many of the plants along the creek lines, while I attempted to catch yabbies and other aquatic animals. These experiences informed my decision when leaving school to somehow work in the outdoors.

Michael Elgey speaks with local elder Uncle Ivan Wellington at the opening of the National Herbarium of NSW

years for the Official Secretary for the Governor-General at Admiralty House as a horticulturalist. Then in 2010 I started with the Gardens as an Herbarium Support Officer at the National Herbarium of NSW. Four years later I became Supervisor of Middle Gardens in the Horticulture branch. In 2018 I took a leap of faith and accepted a role as Curator of Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Kershaw Gardens, smack bang on the Tropic of Capricorn. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made and an experience I will never forget. But when I saw the advertisement for the Curator Manager role at the Australian Botanic Garden in 2021 I knew it was an opportunity I could not let slip by.

Tell us about your career prior to joining the Gardens in your current role.

My professional career in horticulture commenced 20 years ago this October when I started a greenkeeping apprenticeship with Northbridge Golf Course. I soon transferred across to work on the grounds of Ryde TAFE (affectionately known as Ryde School of Horticulture). After completing my apprenticeship, I worked for several

What have been some of the highlights of your work?

My personal aim at work is to always leave the gardens in a better state and situation every afternoon than they were when I arrived in the morning.

I am optimistic that thanks to the dedication my team brings each day, we collectively achieve this. But truly my greatest highlights are seeing my staff grow, develop and progress within their own careers – nothing trumps this.

‘My career started with a greenkeeping apprenticeship at Northbridge Golf Course’

What is your favourite plant or section in the Garden? What makes it special?

In a hard-to-reach gully between the base of Mount Annan and the Banksia Garden there is a large, beautiful remnant specimen of Brachychiton populneus (the Kurrajong) which is my favourite tree in the Garden. In 2011, I was fortunate enough to undertake the

Plant Science internship that the Science Branch hosted and Foundation & Friends funded. When I undertook this internship, it was one of the first times I had ever visited the Australian Botanic Garden and this is when I fell in love with the genus Brachychiton, so for me this has come a bit of a full circle.

When you are not working, what do you like to do?

I like to run, and each morning before work I generally do at least 5 km around the Garden. I also like to read, and I’m particularly drawn to leadership books – the best one I’ve read recently was The Obstacle is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Ryan Holiday, which is about embracing obstacles and re-framing them as challenges you need to meet head-on.

Being a father of three active kids, however, it’s a rare occurrence when I actually have a spare moment.

Tell us one thing that might surprise people to learn about you.

I really enjoy long distance bush walking, and in 2008 I hiked and traversed over the Owen Stanley Ranges from Port Moresby on the southern coast to the remote village of Sanananda on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea (the Kokoda Track forms part of this route). I survived the walk just fine, then got sick on the last day before we flew out after eating some dodgy chicken at the hotel. I’m now spending a bit of time exploring Dharawal National Park near Mount Annan on short walks with my family.

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 15

SPECIAL FEATURE

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF FOUNDATION & FRIENDS ONE VISION, DOZENS OF CREATIVE CONCEPTS AND THOUSANDS OF VOLUNTEER HOURS HAVE HELPED THE GARDENS REMAIN AMONG THE WORLD’S GREAT SCIENTIFIC, EDUCATIONAL,

Sir Rupert Myers, actress Kate Fitzpatrick and ABC TV gardening presenter Alan Searle launch Friends of the Botanic Gardens with a special planting

I

deas for an independent organisation dedicated to supporting the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney had been bouncing around for years before Garden Director Dr Lawrence Johnson and Chairman Professor Michael Pitman took the decisive step in 1982 to create Friends of the Botanic Gardens.

The pair secured a $10,000 grant, formed a committee led by inaugural President Sir Rupert Myers, and conducted the organisation’s first meeting on 27 July 1982. By the first Annual

16 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

General Meeting on 25 November 1983, Friends had almost 600 members, a constitution and a full program of activities and fundraising initiatives.

Over the next 30 years Friends of the Gardens went from strength to strength, until in 2012 members acted on the recommendations of an independent report and merged with the Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation.

Bringing two organisations together is never an easy task – especially when they are supported by fiercely passionate

volunteers. But there’s no question the merger was, by any measure, a resounding success, creating a more effective and coherent platform from which to raise support and awareness of Sydney’s much beloved Gardens.

In fact, in its 40th year, it’s fair to say Foundation & Friends has never been stronger. So, let’s celebrate this important milestone by reflecting on just some of our organisation’s many current and past achievements, and taking a moment to consider what the future holds...

Photos: Gez Xavier Mansfield Photography, Saint Cloche Gallery, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

HORTICULTURAL, CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL SPACES. DAVID CARROLL REPORTS.

40 YEARS OF FOUNDATION & FRIENDS ART IN THE GARDENS

Like many of its most successful initiatives, Foundation & Friends’ much celebrated program of art exhibitions had modest beginnings. In this case, it was the launch, back in 1986, of a garden photography competition.

Then in March 1988 the organisation organised the inaugural Friends’ Art Exhibition, featuring painter Christine McCarthy and potter Patricia Woskett.

It was such a success that it became an annual event, which in turn lay the foundations for exhibitions that now draw thousands of people to the Gardens and raise funds that support all manner of projects.

Since that small photographic competition, Foundation & Friends has run more than 65 exhibitions. Some have been unique one-off events, such as Kauri Project and Treecycle, which saw timbers salvaged from across the Gardens transformed into everything from musical instruments to fine furniture and jewellery.

Others – such as Artisans in the Gardens and Botanica, which has contributed to a revival of botanical art – have become staples of the Sydney art scene.

More recently, the scope of the exhibition program has expanded to throw a spotlight on important issues such as sustainability through the 2021 exhibition Transformation. Work has also now begun on a new exhibition due to open in 2023 that will feature artworks referencing threatened Australian species and environments.

‘Botanica's success has given many artists support and recognition, and raised public awareness of botanical art. It was also the catalyst for the founding of the Florilegium Society, which has seen 138 paintings donated to the Daniel Solander Library by international and Australian artists’

Botanica 2017 featured artist Angela Lober's show-stopping Doryanthes excelsa

Meredith Woolnough is a regular exhibitor at Artisans in the Gardens

Angela Robertson-Buchanan (Wild Thing 2019) Mikey Floyd violin (Treecycle 2016)

Beverly Allen, award-winning botanical artist

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 17

SPECIAL FEATURE NURTURING EXPERTISE

Paul Nicholson, Manager Volunteer Programs

TRAVELLING WITH FRIENDS

Foundation & Friends’ small group tours have enabled members – under the direction of expert guides – to venture to many of the world’s most beautiful gardens and natural environments.

The first trip embarked on 12 June 1983, with an excursion from Sydney to the Wollongong Botanic Garden for a walk and afternoon tea. Two years later, members left Australian shores, taking a colourful tour of India’s horticultural highlights.

Since then, journeys have been undertaken to all corners of the globe, including the United Kingdom, Turkey, Iran, Argentina, Peru, New Guinea, China, Japan, Madagascar, and the Galapagos and Ecuador. Along the way, members have shared endless memories and formed enduring friendships. As the old saying goes: ‘You can pack for every occasion, but a friend will always be the best thing you could bring’.

18 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

As well as generating much-needed funds for high-profile infrastructure and science-related projects, Foundation & Friends has over the years supported the professional development of the talented and dedicated staff who care for the Gardens.

One of the most important initiatives was unveiled back in 1990 when Friends of the Botanic Gardens launched a Horticultural Scholarship. Designed to expand the skills and expertise of horticultural staff, the scholarship program later broadened its focus to also include the Gardens’ science and science communications teams.

Over the past three decades over 55 scholarships – worth an estimated $400,000 – have been awarded. The program has helped staff travel all over the world to attend conferences and symposiums, take part in study trips and undertake valuable internships.

As well as enabling staff to develop their own skills and knowledge in everything from cutting-edge digitisation practices to collection management and garden design, the scholarship program has helped forge stronger ties with other botanic gardens and research institutions.

Photos: World Expeditions, Bigga Haataja, Louisa Goodall, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

‘A scholarship enabled me to attend a ‘Gardening with Children and Youth’ conference in the U.S., which expanded my notions of what public horticulture can be, and the potential of gardening to influence lives’

40 YEARS OF FOUNDATION & FRIENDS Trial Garden beds next to the Conservatorium of Music

A STRONG VOICE

GROWING FRIENDS

It’s entirely unsurprising that an organisation dedicated to supporting the Gardens would organise a team of green-fingered volunteers to propagate plants and sell them to the public.

But it’s doubtful anyone involved in the launch of Growing Friends in 1998 would have foreseen quite how successful it would become.

In its early years Growing Friends earned around $5,000 a year selling plants featured in the Gardens’ living collections. Within a few years the team at the Botanic Garden Sydney had expanded, and nurseries had opened at the Australian Botanic Garden and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden. Today Growing Friends is a highly sophisticated operation that involves more than 100 volunteers and generates in excess of $200,000 in sales each year.

Life Member Raoul de Ferranti, who joined the team in the mid-2000s, says the growth in sales has been extraordinary. “But it’s been equally

rewarding to see the remarkable development in the range of plants our teams now create, and the reputation that we’ve developed for quality.”

He says some things have not changed since the beginning.

“It remains a great privilege to be able to work within the Gardens and to work closely with the horticultural staff, who are all very supportive of the work we are doing and the money we raise for the Gardens.”

According to de Ferranti, there is still considerable scope for Growing Friends to further increase plant sales.

“In Sydney for the time being we are constrained by the space available for propagation and selling, but the Gardens are looking at ways to improve our facilities. There is also considerable potential for growth at Mount Tomah and Mount Annan, where we now have better facilities for propagation and sales following the redevelopment of the nursery area as part of the National Herbarium development.”

Thanks to its independence, Foundation & Friends has on many occasions acted as a strong advocate for the Gardens, lobbying the NSW Government and other bodies on a range of important and sometimes controversial issues.

Over the years these have ranged from CBD developments causing shadows over the Garden, to the impact of major infrastructure projects such as the Sydney Harbour Tunnel.

Arguably the most successful campaign took place in 1999 when Friends of the Gardens, supported by media and the National Trust, successfully lobbied to restrict the redesign of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, which threatened to overshadow and encroach on the Garden.

More recently Foundation & Friends spearheaded opposition to the use of the Gardens' land for the creation of the Art Gallery of New South Wales Sydney Modern Project. In 2017, then Chairman Clive Austin engaged a broad range of media to call on the state government to reconsider the controversial new wing of the Gallery, which sits on land mandated for open space and conservation purposes.

Austin pointed out that since 1912 the Gardens had lost more than 10% of its land to developments such as the Cahill Expressway and Conservatorium of Music.

‘Since 1912 the Gardens had lost more than 10% of its land to developments’ THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 19

SPECIAL FEATURE

Beverly Allen Art Class New Year's Eve picnic on Mare and Foal Lawn hosted by Foundation & Friends

SERENE STROLLS AND PYROTECHNIC PICNICS

Foundation & Friends kicked off its events program in November 1982 with three rather civilised and relatively sedate activities: a meet and greet with then Garden’s Director Lawrie Johnson, a “summer walk” around the Botanic Garden Sydney, and a talk by Professor Michael Pitman.

To say the program has blossomed would be an understatement. Today members and non-members are presented with an array of fascinating seminars, workshops, talks, walks and lunches with leading lights in such areas as botanical science, horticulture, art and garden design.

Members also take part in Helping Hands, which provides a regular opportunity to work alongside the Gardens’ horticulture teams, and in the process pick up useful tips and new skills. In addition, our volunteers play important support roles in major Garden events, such as the annual Sydney Tomato Festival.

The undisputed jewel in the Foundation & Friends’ events program, however, is the exclusive New Year’s Eve Picnic, hosted each year on the Mare & Foal Lawn, from where members and their guests enjoy unrivalled views across Farm Cove.

The first Picnic was held back in 1996 and pre-COVID all 3,000 available tickets were regularly sold out, generating around one third of Foundation & Friends’ annual business revenue and a significant portion of new members.

'The New Year’s Eve Picnic generates around one third of Foundation & Friends’ annual revenue' 20 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

Photos: Charlotte Sandes, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

Succulent wreath worksop

40 YEARS OF FOUNDATION & FRIENDS

‘A round $13 million of those funds have been allocated to a broad range of projects’

THE FRUITS OF LABOUR

Foundation & Friends raises funds through a range of regular activities, including annual exhibitions, events and the Growing Friends Plant Sales.

Just as vital are the fundraising appeals undertaken for key projects, and the exceptionally generous bequests and gifts the organisation attracts. As a result, since 1982, a remarkable $17 million has been collected to support the Gardens.

Around $13 million of those funds have been allocated to a broad range of projects, with the organisation’s financial support proving instrumental in furthering scientific research, building and regenerating infrastructure, enhancing education facilities, and helping develop new areas across all three Gardens.

One of the earliest projects supported

by Foundation & Friends was the creation of the Botanic Garden Sydney’s Rose Garden. Other priceless spaces – such as the enchanting Connections Garden at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan and the rainforest viewing platform at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah – were made possible by Foundation & Friends’ fundraising efforts.

More recently, the organisation helped fund the digitisation of the National Herbarium of New South Wales – a process that involved capturing high-resolution images of close to a million specimens and launched the collection into the digital age (see story page 23).

Foundation & Friends celebrates its 40th year in a strong financial position, with $3.7 million available for projects that will ensure Sydney continues to boast three of the world’s leading botanic gardens.

Pictured at the launch of PlantClinic in 2017 are (L–R) Gardens' Executive Director Kim Ellis, Foundation & Friends' Chair Clive Austin, NSW Minister for the Environment Gabrielle Upton and Dr Brett Summerell from the Royal Botanic Gardens

Australian PlantBank

The Calyx

PROJECT

YEAR/S

SUPPORT ($)

Rainforest viewing platform (Blue Mountains Botanic Garden)

1992

10,000

Rose Garden (Botanic Garden Sydney)

1985–1987

30,000

Lion Gate Lodge refurbishment

2002–2007

124,008

Connections Garden (Australian Botanic Garden)

2009–2011

220,000

Rainforest Seed Conservation

2014, 2018–2019

324,186

Plant diversification program

2016

429,660

Plant Pathology laboratories

2017–2018

500,000+

Transformative learning and education

2015–2019

560,000+

African Olive eradication (Mount Annan)

2015–2018

662,000+

The Calyx (Botanic Garden Sydney)

2015–2019

1,000,000+

Teaching and research laboratories at the Australian PlantBank

2013–2014

1,000,000+

Herbarium digitisation

2019–2022

1,000,000+

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 21

SPECIAL FEATURE PASSIONATE PEOPLE

Artisans volunteers

22 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

Foundation & Friends is about protecting treasured places where special memories are created

LOOKING FORWARD

Foundation & Friends has experienced remarkable growth over the past 40 years, but what does the future hold?

Can our organisation continue to evolve, expand its fundraising activities and attract new members? CEO Peter Thomas is confident the answer to all three questions is a resounding ‘yes’.

“I believe we are on the cusp of significant growth, driven by a variety of factors, not least of which is a growing concern around climate change and a desire among people of all ages to engage with the natural world and play a part in protecting our environment,” says Thomas.

“Those feelings only grew during the pandemic, when people became even more aware and appreciative of the Gardens and the priceless open spaces they provide. That was evident not just in the city, but in regions around Mount Annan, where we saw visitation rise dramatically.

“By tapping into that passion for the botanical world – and promoting the Gardens’ scientific, educational and cultural activities – we have an opportunity to attract support from a broader audience, including wealthy philanthropists.

‘40 years after its launch, the work that Foundation & Friends undertakes is more important than ever’ "In the past the Royal Botanic Garden has been the poor cousin of the city's cultural institutions, but a lot of work is being done to position us as a peer, and a vital part of the fabric of the city. That will enable us to connect more with individuals who are in a position to make major donations – an area in which, comparatively speaking, we currently underperform.”

One thing is certain – 40 years after its launch, the work that Foundation & Friends undertakes is more important than ever.

“It’s vital we support the Gardens’ efforts to confront the great challenges we now face, including climate change and habitat loss. Part of that involves remaining vigilant in our role as an independent advocate, helping protect treasured spaces, in which memories are forged and special moments created.”

Photos: Charlotte Sandes, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

Volunteers are the beating heart of any not-for-profit organisation, and the key reason Foundation & Friends enters its 40th years in such robust shape.

Around 350 dedicated members work as volunteers each year, typically donating more than 30,000 hours of their time to organise and run exhibitions, cater at events, co-ordinate classes, workshops and seminars, and propagate and sell plants. They also staff information stands, ensure the New Year’s Eve Picnic runs smoothly, and represent Foundation & Friends at the Garden’s annual Tomato Festival.

With such a broad range of activities, volunteers – who come from a diverse range of backgrounds – can contribute in ways that suit their particular skills and interests. All that is required is a passion for the Gardens and a desire to give something back to the community.

Life member Carol Griesser, who in 2000 became a member of the Australian Botanic Garden Growing Friends’ operation, says that the Gardens invariably reward volunteers for their time.

“I’ve been able to make life friends with so many other people – not just volunteers but members of the wonderful horticulture staff, for whom the Garden is much more than just a job.

“And every time I visit the Gardens, I see the contribution that Foundation & Friends has made to projects large and small. It’s nice to know that our efforts have helped make those things possible, and it makes you feel proud to have been a part of it.”

BOTANICAL SCIENCE

THE BRAVE NEW WORLD OF

DIGITAL BOTANY

DIGITAL CONNECTIVENESS HAS BEEN A GODSEND TO BOTANICAL SCIENTISTS THROUGHOUT COVID. DR BRETT SUMMERELL, CHIEF SCIENTIST AND DIRECTOR RESEARCH, REPORTS.

Herbarium specimen ready to be digitised THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 23

BOTANICAL SCIENCE

L

ike most Australians – and many people around the world – botanical scientists were forced to primarily work from home during the COVID pandemic. This restricted our ability to interact with colleagues face-to-face, hampered efforts to get out in the field, and put a stop to a number of academic conferences and meetings.

There have, however, been upsides from the lockdown. Most notably, in response to COVID, many seminars moved online. This not only freed up time usually required to travel, but also made events more accessible to colleagues all over the world. As a result, our scientists at the Australian Institute of Botanical Science have had the opportunity to connect and participate in seminars and conferences taking place across a more diverse array of countries.

Of course, online engagement is still no substitute for attendance at a faceto-face conference or meeting, where long conversations over refreshments and dinner can often lead to wonderful (and sometimes unexpected) outcomes.

But thanks to COVID, it has now become the norm for botanical scientists to use digital resources to communicate and

collaborate in a more environmentally sustainable way.

The digital world is not something that is necessarily associated with the botanical sciences – there is the tendency to think of our work as being focused on long field trips and hours looking at specimens down a microscope (which is partly true). In reality, as with much of science, our research increasingly involves digital data – whether it be the manipulation of large datasets, the study of genomic data, or our growing reliance on high-resolution digital images and data.

This digitisation of the botanical world does provide a number of challenges. For instance, it means we need to secure large data storage capacities and powerful computers capable of manipulating the vast amount of information we generate, as well as the pipelines that allow the data to move backwards and forwards efficiently. This is increasingly becoming as significant a piece of critical infrastructure as our laboratories and field vehicles. But the type of information we now collect, and what we have access to, allows us to explore

‘It has become the norm for botanical scientists to use digital resources to communicate and collaborate’

many different attributes about how plants evolve, survive, persist and reproduce, and can allow us to come up with strategies to manipulate these outcomes. Although this may sound a little ‘brave new world’ it is becoming more and more necessary as we humans change the world, and our actions detrimentally impact the survival of plants and other organisms.

Ten or more years ago, the idea that we might be able to map the entire genome of a plant species would have been considered preposterous. This was the time of the human genome project, which took 13 years and more than four billion dollars to complete, and the technology and equipment was

Photos: © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

As a result of COVID, many seminars and conferences moved online

24 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

BOTANICAL SCIENCE

Genome mapping is focused on threatened species

Digitisation of the Herbarium collection has created a resource for scientists across the world

complex and enormously expensive.

Fortunately, the cost and time required has been reduced dramatically and we are now in a time where mapping plant genomes, while not necessarily routine, is achievable by our scientists.

And to be honest we are on the cusp of genome mapping becoming a standard tool in our armoury of techniques to understand a particular species.

You might be forgiven for wondering precisely what good is going to come out of these advances – is it just an example of scientists generating esoteric information that has no practical outcome? The answer is a most definitive no! The primary focus for mapping genomes has been on those species that are under real and present danger of extinction at this point of time – plant

‘We are on the cusp of genome mapping becoming a standard tool in our armoury’

species on an extinction trajectory from the impacts of myrtle rust such as Rhodamnia rubescens (Scrub Turpentine) and Rhodomyrtus psidioides (Native Guava), and species under threat from Phytophthora root rot such as the iconic Wollemi Pine. Mapping the genome allows us to determine if there are an artillery of disease-resistance genes present in the genome of these species, whether they can be enhanced in the population, or if the genes need to be ‘turned on’ to be effective. More broadly this information can tell us about how species have evolved and responded to climatic changes in the past, and to help predict their ability to survive in the future. The prospects for use of this information are enormously exciting.

The other big digital advance we completed over the period of the pandemic was of course the digitisation of the National Herbarium of New South Wales collection, undertaken as part the opening of the fabulous new facility at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan.

Digitisation meant two things. Firstly, photographing each individual herbarium

specimen in very high resolution so that it is possible with a photograph to zoom into many of the features of the specimen in a manner that is similar to looking through a microscope.

Secondly, capturing all of the data and information on the Herbarium label and entering it into the Herbarium database so that it can sit alongside the photograph. This has provided an enormous resource to scientists all around the world and is part of global efforts to digitise natural history collections. It will vastly improve efficiency in interrogating the collection, particularly for scientists who may not have the time or funds to travel to Australia. And it means that there will be less need to send our collections overseas or interstate, thus preserving and protecting them.

One of the very exciting prospects of a fully-digitised collection is the potential to use artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to develop tools for automated or assisted plant identification. Such techniques, being explored currently by Dr Jason Bragg at AIBS and colleagues at the University of New South Wales, depend on highly sophisticated analysis of many attributes such as leaf shape, arrangement and flower structure which, when the dataset is large enough, might be able predict the identity of an unknown specimen. As more and more collections become digitised – and the dataset becomes larger – the potential for this to happen is greatly enhanced.

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 25

HORTICULTURE

REBUILDING A

WAR ZONE

WITH THE BATTLE AGAINST A WILE WEED ALMOST WON, THE AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN MOUNT ANNAN IS FOCUSED ON REGENERATING A DEGRADED LANDSCAPE. JOHN SIEMON REPORTS.

A

s Foundation & Friends members are well aware, the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan has long been at war with a frighteningly formidable foe: the African Olive (Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata). At one stage this aggressive woody weed covered almost 20% of the Garden’s 416 ha landscape.

With hindsight, I don’t think any of our predecessors ever anticipated the African Olive would mount such a successful assault. The weed’s growth, while noticeable, seemed of secondary

26 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

importance to establishing the Garden’s core credentials and, before anyone really appreciated the scale of infestation, it had spread to such an extent that staff were simply unable to tackle the problem by themselves.

Peter Cuneo, Manager Seedbank & Restoration Research, completed his PhD in 2012 on ‘The ecology and management of invasive African Olive in southwest Sydney’. In a joint paper, he and Professor Michelle Leishman painted a rather dire picture of the enemy: “individual African Olive trees are

capable of producing more than 25,000 fruits per annum, and able to establish up to 950 seedlings per square metre as a ‘seedling bank’ beneath the crown of mature plants”. Images of Mount Annan, captured by Cuneo across successive decades, highlight just how hostile and transformative this weed is in decimating biodiversity and exterminating all floristic life from the landscape.

Through a concerted effort over the last decade, the Garden has now reduced the total coverage of African Olive by a staggering 85%, with less

Photos: Peter Cuneo, John Siemon, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

In autumn 2021 almost 7,500 trees were planted on the slopes of Mount Annan

HORTICULTURE

‘In autumn 2021 almost 7,500 trees were planted around the slopes of Mount Annan’

than 12 ha remaining. This has been predominately through a mechanical mulching process, where the trees are pulverised into woodchips, but also through bush regeneration contractors, volunteers and a Boer goat trial in 2016.

In September 2019, we undertook our most assertive effort to date, removing an enormous 15 ha of olive from the slopes of Mount Annan. The results were confronting and, post-clearing, it was hard not to feel a sense of loss at the mass destruction of trees. To the untrained eye, the naked and fragile landscape was raw, almost war-zone like in its appearance. The land, on such a grand scale, devoid of vegetation, seemed counterproductive to the core mission of an organisation intent on protecting and conserving biodiversity.

Some may even argue that a more sensitive approach was required. In reality, we were left with little choice because taking a ‘softly softly’ approach will never outpace the fecundity of the African Olive.

On the flip side, the ridge line of the Garden, part of western Sydney’s Scenic Hills, has been cleared of a serious scourge. For the first time in more than 20 years, phenomenal vistas have been restored, a trait more commonly considered as superior at our other two well-known Gardens.

Not only has the Garden landscape been riddled with African Olive, but so too our neighbours’ lands. It has been impossible for Garden management to have meaningful dialogue with these neighbours while we failed to deal with our own problem. Now, however, with a potential light at the end of the tunnel, we have commenced dialogue with adjacent landholders to ensure the seed from their olive stands, which is easily spread by birds, will not continue to reinfect the Garden long into the future.

We intend to share our knowledge

African Olive infestation captured on the slopes of Mount Annan in 1984

The same slopes of Mount Annan in 2004, almost completely covered in African Olive

African Olive fruit

Boer goats were trialled as part of the African Olive eradication solution in 2016

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 27

HORTICULTURE

Over the last decade, mechanical mulching has helped reduce African Olive coverage by 85%

Tree planting in autumn 2021

12 months post planting in March 2022

28 THE GARDENS WINTER 2022

and expertise to help them tackle the problem and substantially reduce the biomass of African Olive in the region.

The restoration of Dharawal Country and the Garden landscape has also begun with a number of trials implemented to revegetate the degraded landscape with native grass seed, which was harvested or ‘orcharded’ from the Garden itself and returned to the landscape in the millions.

This native pasture is certainly helping to stabilise the soils of the degraded Garden landscape, but significant tree planting – to return canopy, enhance biodiversity and contribute to reducing the heat-island effect of western Sydney – is also needed.

Fortunately, thanks to the Greening our City program (which is aiming to plant five million trees by 2030) and the NSW Government’s Climate Change Fund, more than $1.4 million was allocated to accelerate African Olive removal and commence the restorative work of planting trees.

In autumn 2021, almost 7,500 trees (including Acacia falcata, A. decurrens, Melaleuca styphelioides and Eucalyptus tereticornis), grown in the Garden’s new production nursery from seed stored in the Australian PlantBank, were planted around the slopes of Mount Annan.

It was initially hard not to feel as though our plantings had become a war cemetery with cardboard tree guards, designed to protect the trees (but apparently very tasty for resident kangaroos). Thanks largely to wonderful La Niña rains, these trees are thriving.

By early winter 2022 we will see the installation of a further 15,000 trees, which will be studied as part of our Australian Institute of Botanical Science programs.

Over the years, Foundation & Friends has been a key ally in the fight against African Olive, donating over $662,000 to help eradicate the weed.

As always, thank you for your support!

Photos: Peter Cuneo, John Siemon, Glenn Smith, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

‘The Garden has now reduced the total coverage of African Olive by a staggering 85%’

PLANTS

PLANTS IN THE

GARDENS DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE WONDERFUL PLANTS TO LOOK OUT FOR NEXT TIME YOU VISIT THE GARDENS. planted because, being wide and spreading, it is better suited to parklands and larger gardens where its spreading form can be seen to full advantage.

While the height of the foliage cluster may be less than two metres, a mature plant of this species may have a spread of 2–3 metres in width in ideal conditions.

The brilliant flower spike appears from the centre of the foliage, arching laterally to two metres or more in length. The two species are indeed “show-stoppers” when in bloom.

‘When these are in flower, it is impossible to miss them’

Doryanthes palmeri

SPEAR LILY, FLAME LILY

Doryanthes species Family Agavaceae/Doryanthaceae There are only two species in the genus, Doryanthes excelsa and Doryanthes palmeri.

Doryanthes excelsa is by far the better known and the most widely planted.

Formerly known as the Gymea Lily, it occurs mainly on the sandstone regions of New South Wales, from the Central Coast to the Illawarra. It has been used to great effect in public plantings, including as a highway divider on the Southern Cross Drive leading to Sydney Airport.

Doryanthes excelsa forms a tall, wide

rosette of glossy green leaves, which can be 15–20 centimetres wide and up to two metres long. From the centre of this foliage, a tall flowering spike develops.

The flower spike is generally four metres or more high. Initially the large flower bud resembles a classical torch, opening to reveal a cluster of rich red flowers.

Flowers, which are quite long-lasting, appear mainly in spring through summer.

These spectacular flower spikes are very attractive to nectar-feeding birds. This species was introduced to the Gardens

by Charles Fraser as early as 1819.

Doryanthes palmeri is also a spectacular plant but is less frequently

Both species require similar conditions to thrive. They are not fussy about soil type and will grow in any variety of fairly well-drained soil. A temperate to semi-tropical climate should suit both.

Fertiliser is not generally needed but if so, a slow-release, organic variety would be best.

After planting, a mulch of welldecayed organic matter would be beneficial. Little or no maintenance is required beyond removing the spent flowering spikes once they have completely dried off.

Both species are planted in several areas of the Royal Botanic Garden, including the long border to the right of the Henry Lawson Gate on Mrs Macquaries Road (bed 103), and in the Australian Border and Rockery which leads to the Opera House entrance gate (bed 130). If wandering in the Garden when these are in flower, it is impossible to miss them!

Margaret Hanks, Growing Friends, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 29

PLANTS

Camellia japonica speciosissima

‘The first camellias in Australia were planted at the Royal Botanic Garden’ in 1823’

Winter annual Antirrhinum ‘Snapshot Sunset’

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN SYDNEY Winter is the best time to enjoy the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney’s extensive camellia collection. If entering the Garden from the Woolloomooloo Gate you can enjoy a magnificent assortment of camellia cultivars. Further into the Garden near Rathborne Lodge is our magnificent species collection.

These wonderful plants have been grown in the Royal Botanic Garden for almost 200 years – in fact the first recorded plantings of camellia in Australia were at the Royal Botanic Garden by Charles Frazer in 1823.

The southern African display near the Henry Lawson Gate is worth a visit in winter, if only to see the protea at their stunning best. If in the Blue Mountains, the protea display at the

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Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah is even more spectacular in mid-winter. Other southern African plants at their best are the aloes mass-planted at the front of the Conservatorium of Music and on the Greenway. These hardy plants flower prolifically throughout winter.

The winter annual display at the Garden always brightens things up. This year there will be a mix of snapdragons, calendula, dahlia, dianthus and foxgloves, to name a few.

The Flower Bed Lawn with its stunning harbour views will have a mix of dianthus and viola in shades of red, white and purple. Another great place to enjoy the winter annuals is the Palace Garden where the Pioneer

Memorial Garden will showcase a vibrant mix of polyanthus, snapdragons, dianthus and poppies, with perhaps a few early daffodils popping up.

If you are visiting the Garden before July, make sure you see the Inside the Tide exhibition at The Calyx. Enjoy the stunning recreation of kelp forests, coral reefs and seagrass meadows, created using more than 20,000 plants, complemented by the puppetry of Erth Visual & Physical. As you approach The Calyx, a life size topiary female humpback whale accompanied by her baby calf can be seen breaching through the lawn.

In the cool of winter many of our native plants are flowering. A visit to the native rockery next to the Queen Elizabeth II Gate will not disappoint.

The Succulent Garden is a joy in winter where you can view an extensive range of plants from some of the driest places on earth. Sydney’s mild winter is a great time to enjoy the Garden and marvel at some of the amazing trees or read a book in the tranquil surrounds in the heart of the city.

David Laughlin, Curator Manager

PLANTS

Rhizomatous begonias

Photos: David Laughlin, Alice Bruyn, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

Callerya megasperma

Stachyurus praecox

AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN

BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN

Do you love wisteria but hate the fact it loses leaves in winter? If so, come for a visit to the Australian Botanic Garden from July to October and have a look at Callerya megasperma, wisteria’s native counterpart. This evergreen climber in the Fabaceae family, which comes from south-eastern Queensland and the north-eastern corner of New South Wales, makes a perfect substitute for the exotic wisteria. From July to October, delicate purple pea-shaped flowers hang en-masse in large trusses followed by large velvety seed pods, which are attractive in their own right. You could be forgiven for thinking it is wisteria but for the fact it has wonderfully glossy leaves year-round, so it has a ‘wow’ factor, even when not in flower. The new growth is something to behold, covering the plant in a sea of inky black. Attention must be paid when selecting a site to plant Callerya as they are known to be vigorous growers, scrambling up the tallest trees in the wild. They can, however, be controlled with a good cut back after flowering. For best results use Callerya as a screen.

Choose a site where the soil is free draining and sandy, and ensure the roots are kept cool and moist by adding a layer of organic mulch. It is a good butterfly-attracting plant.

Simon Reid, Horticulturist

While the world around it appears deeply asleep, the Stachyurus praecox (commonly known as Spiketail or Kibusi) is alive with chandeliers of pendant racemes in a vibrant yellow. Set on the gentle slopes of the Residence Lawn (near the Camellia Cottage), Stachyurus’ blooms cascade along its bare branches, looking from a distance like clouds of bright yellow smoke, bringing some levity to the winter gloom. The species epithet ‘praecox’ is derived from Latin and refers to its very early flowering time. A native of Japan, where its seed is used to make a black dye, Stachyurus is a beautiful, spreading shrub with reddish-gold autumn colour and such notable winter displays. It is no wonder that the Royal Horticultural Society gave Stachyurus praecox its prestigious Award of Garden Merit.

Marion Whitehead, Senior Horticulturist, Nursery

GROWING FRIENDS

PLANT SALES The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Mon–Fri 11am–2pm, Sat 10am–2pm The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan Mon–Sun 9am–4pm The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Mon–Sun 9.30am–4.30pm

GROWING FRIENDS Rain, rain and more rain over the last few months has made work in the Growing Friends Plant Sales somewhat easier because we haven't needed to spend so much time on daily watering. Our plants are showing the benefit, but continuing disruption from wild weather and COVID restrictions have made our new propagation task more difficult.

Nevertheless, we are delighted with the quality and variety of plants in stock, with new varieties on sale and regular lines returning to the nursery benches.

We recently introduced a new range of unusual rhizomatous begonias, with many varied and colourful leaf forms, and we expect to have Alloxylon flammeum – the spectacular Tree Waratah – back on sale at Growing Friends Plant Sales at both the Royal Botanic Garden and the Australian Botanic Garden.

While we continue to welcome new volunteers, we are also sadly saying farewell to some long-serving members. Among them is Robin McIntyre, who in 1998 became one of the first Growing Friends and our first General Coordinator. Robin also helped set up Growing Friends at the Australian Botanic Garden in 1999 and was the first leader of Growing Friends at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in 2004 – making her the only member to have worked at all three of our sites. We will miss her experience, knowledge and organisational abilities.

Raoul de Ferranti, General Coordinator Growing Friends

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WHAT’S ON Here is just a taste of what is on offer during winter across our three Gardens. For more information about events, and to book, visit botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On. All activities have been planned with your safety in mind, including social distancing and hygiene measures. Events with the BF symbol are organised by Foundation & Friends and can be booked online or by calling (02) 9231 8182.

DUE TO THE EVERY-EVOLVING NATURE OF COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS ON OUR EVENTS, PLEASE CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.

TIDELINE

Presented by Cilla Campbell, Bathurst Street Printmakers & Creative Outdoor Group The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Mon 20 June–Sun 26 June, 10am-4pm Tideline is an imaginative exhibition of works on paper in response to the current Inside the Tide exhibition in The Calyx. It showcases linocuts and monoprints, in addition to pastel, watercolour and charcoal, and ink drawings. All artists have been mentored by Cilla Campbell.

F botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

BACH AT THE CALYX, Concert Series

The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden, Sun 5 June & Sun 3 July, 3pm Please join us for two free and interactive Sunday afternoon classical music concerts featuring the works of J.S. Bach against the spectacular backdrop of the Inside the Tide exhibition. The program will feature some of Australia's leading classical artists and freelance musicians from ensembles such as the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and the Pinchgut Opera. These matinee concerts are family-friendly and run for 40 minutes.

Entry by donation. botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

KEY: M Foundation & Friends’ member NM Non-member MC Member’s child NC Non-member’s child F Free Morning tea provided L Lunch provided R Refreshments provided MP Materials provided B rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au BF Book through Foundation & Friends New member gift voucher can be used i More information with booking

MT

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Photos: Em Wollen, Hiroko Prado, Charlotte Thodey, Shutterstock, AB, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

EXHIBITION & CONCERT

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CLASSES, WORKSHOPS & TALKS

FOUNDATIONAL GARDENING SKILLS WORKSHOPS

BOTANICAL WATERCOLOUR INTENSIVE WORKSHOP

IKEBANA WORKSHOP

with Beverly Allen Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 21–Fri 24 June, 9.30am–4pm Working with one plant subject, this class will build skills through the demonstration of watercolour techniques – from initial washes, to dry brush detail and finishing. The emphasis will be on close observation, accurate drawing, the subtleties of colour and the use of light.

For intermediate to advanced students, or those with drawing skills.

M $530 NM $570 MT L i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

with Hiroko Prado Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 19 July, 10am–12.45pm Learn ikebana from Hiroko Prado, the Director of Sogetsu Sydney and President of the Ikebana International Sydney Chapter. You’ll learn the history and fundamentals of this beautiful Japanese art of flower arranging using leaves, flowers, branches, stems and fruit. Hiroko will also teach members of the class how to handle different ikebana tools and materials.

M $150 NM $170 L MP i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

A VISUAL FEAST ART CLASS

FIRST NATIONS WEAVING AND FEMMES EXHIBITION

THE FUNDAMENTALS OF PROPAGATION

Weaving, Wine and Wander The Calyx, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 23 August, 5.30pm–7.30pm This workshop combines traditional First Nations’ weaving skills with a chance to view the contemporary Fleurs de Villes FEMMES exhibition. First Nations educators will lead you through the process of collection, preparation and weaving. Take home your own woven piece and some newly-acquired skills.

Suitable for 18+ M NM 7 $ 0 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

with Greg Lamont Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden Sat 27 August, 9.30am–12.30pm Join Greg Lamont, expert horticulturist and Growing Friends volunteer, to learn how to propagate plant species from the Garden’s living collection. You’ll learn how to take cuttings from a range of plants, and gain an understanding of potting mixes and plant care. Students will participate in hands-on propagating with take-home samples.

M 7 $ 0 NM 8 $ 5 MT MP i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

Rathborne Lodge, Royal Botanic Garden • Basic Botany for Beginners Sat 4 June, 9.30am–3.30pm • Soil Science for Gardeners Sat 2 July, 9.30am–3.30pm • Plant Nutrition & Watering Sat 6 August, 9.30am–3.30pm Enhance your gardening skills with workshops led by the Garden's experts.

Examine plants, and learn about plant needs for gardening success.

Suitable for adults M $162 NM $180 per workshop botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

with Charlotte Thodey Maiden Theatre, Royal Botanic Garden Tue 23–Wed 24 August, 9.30am–4pm This two-day acrylic art class with popular tutor Charlotte Thodey will look at the basis of drawing and composition. The course emphasis will be on the close-up observation of nature and light, and careful layering of colour to capture any illumination and reveal the fieshy essence of the fruit. You will be able to explore your individual style.

M 3 i BF $ 00 NM 3 $ 40 MT L botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

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GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED WALKS NATURE THERAPY

ABORIGINAL RIGHTS & FREEDOMS NAIDOC TOUR

• Royal Botanic Garden Tue 5 July 10am–11.30am & Tue 12 July 1pm–2.30pm • Australian Botanic Garden Mon 11 July 10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm In line with this year’s NAIDOC theme Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!, explore our Indigenous gardens and learn about First Nations peoples in their journey for sovereignty, justice and freedom. Participants will also create Aboriginal flags, headbands and more.

M $16 NM $18 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

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ROYAL WALK WITH HIGH TEA

GHOSTLY GARDEN

Lion Gate Lodge Royal Botanic Garden Thu 9 June, 1.30pm–4pm Inspired by the Queen's Birthday long weekend, join our volunteer guides for this fascinating tour about the royals from across the globe who have visited our Garden. The tour will conclude with a delicious high tea and glass of sparkling wine. Pictured above is Queen Elizabeth II who in 1954 planted a Melaleuca leucandendra (Weeping Paperbark) at Government House.

M $60 NM $70 L i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

Woolloomooloo Gate Royal Botanic Garden Fri evenings at sunset, 10 & 24 June, 8 & 22 July, 12 & 26 August Take a twilight adventure through the Garden in this spine-tingling event.

Hear spooky and kooky stories and strange happenings from the Royal Botanic Garden's past, as Grey-headed Flying-foxes flit above your head and Powerful Owl's stare from the treetops.

Suitable for adults and ages 12+ Adult must accompany under 18s M $37 NM $42 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

MEET OUR EXTRAORDINARY TREES WALK

ABORIGINAL BUSH TUCKER TOUR & ABORIGINAL HARBOUR HERITAGE TOUR

Maiden Theatre Royal Botanic Garden Sun 31 July, 1.30pm–4pm Spend National Tree Day exploring the extraordinary trees that live in the heart of Sydney! The Royal Botanic Garden is home to some of Sydney’s oldest, most valuable and rarest trees.

You will also meet Peter Martin, a brilliant wood-turner who creates wonderful treasures from the Garden’s salvaged trees. Afternoon tea included.

M $35 NM $45 R i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

Meet at Garden Shop Royal Botanic Garden • Every Thu, Fri & Sat, 11am & 1pm • Sunset tour every Fri Our guides will immerse you in the rich Aboriginal culture of the traditional custodians of the Sydney city area, the Gadigal. Discover the many ways plants in the Garden are used by the Gadigal.

Day tours M $27 NM $30 MC NC $20 Sunset tours M $38 NM $42 MC NC $25 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

Photos: Gail Dihm, © Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust

• Visitor Centre, Royal Botanic Garden Sun 5 & 19 June, Sun 3, 17 & 31 July, Sun 14 & 28 August, 10am–12noon • Visitors Centre, Australian Botanic Garden, Sun 12 June, Sun 10 July, Sun 7 August, 10am–12noon • Visitors Centre, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Sat 20 August, 11am–1pm Slow down and connect with nature!

Be gently guided through a series of sensory experiences, mindfulness, quiet aware walking and nature appreciation to help promote slowing down, nature connection and relaxation.

Suitable for families and ages 13+ M $32 NM $35 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On australianbotanicgarden.com.au/ What-s-On bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com. au/What-s-On

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DAY EXCURSION

Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens Ltd, Cottage 6, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney 2000 Phone: (02) 9231 8182 Chief Executive Officer: Peter Thomas foundation.friends@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au botanicgardens.org.au/foundationandfriends Office hours: Mon–Thu, 9am–3pm facebook.com/FoundationandFriends instagram.com/FoundationandFriends

DAFFODIL COACH TOUR

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, departing Sydney Central Station Thu 18 August, 8.30am–4pm Celebrate spring in the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah as it bursts into life with seas of golden daffodils. Nearly 100,000 daffodil bulbs cover the Garden, and this coach tour is the perfect, convenient opportunity to appreciate and explore these rays of sunshine. Hear from expert horticulturalists and meet the Garden Curator for an update on this world-class cool-climate garden. Transport included.

M $130 NM $150 L i BF botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

MEMBERS ONLY

KIDS IN THE GARDEN

HELPING HANDS Discover the work that goes into maintaining the Gardens and learn from the horticulture staff, taking direction from the team. Please wear sturdy boots and bring a hat, gloves, sunscreen and water. Join online as a Foundation & Friends member to participate in this exclusive and fun activity.

Members Only

Across the three Gardens Various dates, June–August Join us for a school holiday program of paid and free activities. MC NC botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

SEEDLINGS NATURE SCHOOL

• Royal Botanic Garden Every Tue 7–28 June or every Thu 2–23 June, 10am–12noon • Australian Botanic Garden Every Wed 1, 8, 15 & 22 June, 9.30am–11.30am • Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Every Fri 3, 10, 17 & 24 June, 10am–12noon Suitable for 2.5–5 years and carers.

Bookings essential.

MC NC Single Class $18, Full Term Pass $126 botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On australianbotanicgarden.com.au/ What-s-On/Seedlings-Nature-School bluemountainsbotanicgarden.com.au/ what-s-on/Seedlings-Nature-School

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Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah Education Centre Wed 1 June, Wed 6 July, Wed 3 August 8.30am–12noon Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan Meet at the main car park Wed 8 June, Wed 13 July, Wed 10 August 8.30am–12noon Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Foundation & Friends Terrace Thu 16 June, Thu 21 July, Thu 18 August 8.45am–12noon botanicgardens.org.au/What-s-On

EDITORIAL Editor: David Carroll Designer: Lauren Sutherland Coordinator: Helen Goodall Feature writers: Dr Brett Summerell (Botanical Science), John Siemon (Horticulture), Sue Wannan (Arts) and Miguel Garcia (History) Scientific adviser: Dr Russell Barrett Regular contributors: Raoul de Ferranti, Carol Griesser, Margaret Hanks, Jarryd Kelly, Greg Lamont, David Laughlin, Simon Reid and Marion Whitehead

Printer: Bright Print Group Print Post approved: PP 100004091 ISSN 1324 - 8219 Printed in Australia on paper made from FSC-certified and other controlled materials.

FSC® helps take care of the forests, and the people and wildlife that call them home.

BECOME A MEMBER

Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens supports the important work and programs across your Botanic Gardens – the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan and the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah. Our mission is to grow a strong, supportive community to advocate and raise funds for our Botanic Gardens and their vital horticultural, scientific, education and conservation work.

Join our vibrant community of members today by phoning (02) 9231-8182 or visiting rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Join-Support/Foundationand-Friends-of-the-Botanic-Gardens Membership fees: Standard $70, Concession/student $60, Household $95, Household concession $80

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The Botanic Gardens are a last line of defence for threatened plants.

Donate today

So much of what your Gardens achieves in securing the future of our threatened plants relies on the support of our members and donors. Please consider a tax time gift today. You can donate online at botanicgardens.org.au/donate-eofy or by using the QR code. Thank you for your amazing support.