Leaving a Legacy

A long-time visitor to the Royal Botanic Garden, supporter Jenny Crivelli has chosen to leave a bequest to help protect the Gardens in the future. Her gift will support the Gardens’ ongoing work and ensure they remain a place everyone can discover and enjoy for many years to come.

Jenny Crivelli first became involved with Foundation & Friends 20 years ago, when she attended an event at the Royal Botanic Garden. She has been a keen supporter and donor ever since, and more recently decided to leave a bequest to the Gardens in her will. She talks about her favourite spaces at the Gardens and how she hopes her gift will impact future generations.

What inspired you to include the Botanic Gardens in your legacy?

The Botanic Gardens have always given me pleasure, particularly the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney with its historical significance, connection to the city and how it enhances the natural beauty of the Farm Cove site. The statues scattered throughout the Botanic Gardens add to the space's character and storytelling. I enjoy seeing visitors' joy and fascination as they explore the Botanic Gardens. There's something wonderful about watching people of all ages connect with nature in the heart of Sydney. One of my favourite spots is the Mare and Foal Lawn on the water's edge. It's a place of quiet beauty and I always feel a sense of peace when I'm there.

How do you hope your gift will impact the Gardens and future generations?

I hope my gift will support the maintenance and development of the Royal Botanic Garden, ensuring it remains a beautiful and accessible space for everyone. Just as importantly, I want to contribute to the research programs led by the Australian Institute of Botanical Science. Their work is crucial – not only for the preservation of plant life but also for deepening our understanding of biodiversity and conservation.

will only become more crucial. They provide a place of serenity and tranquility, a retreat from the fast pace of city life. I hope that future generations will treasure the Botanic Gardens as much as I do - that they will come here to learn, find peace and experience the incredible diversity of plant life. My wish is for the Botanic Gardens to remain not just a place of beauty but also a space for knowledge, inspiration and connection.

By leaving a bequest for the Gardens in your Will, you will help to preserve and sustain the Botanic Gardens of Sydney as places of enjoyment, education and scientific research for tomorrow's generations.

To learn more about becoming a Botanical Guardian. Contact alexandra.power@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au

Sydney grows, these spaces will become even more valuable, offering a sanctuary for nature, learning and reflection. My gift will help protect this legacy, ensuring the Gardens continue to inspire and educate future generations.“