Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens is a voluntary organisation which was founded in 1982 and became an incorporated body in 1993. It serves as a link between the Ballarat City Council and the wider community. Much support has been provided for improvements in the gardens as well as assisting with the conservation of cherished elements such as the collection of marble statues dating from 1880s. The botanical and horticultural significance of the gardens, as well as historical, cultural and recreational aspects, are promoted in the local community and beyond. Community education and programs for schools have been developed to help everyone enjoy their visits to the gardens.

Covering 80 acres (approx. 40ha) the land was first reserved for a public garden in 1857. By the 1880s a magnificent 'gardenesque' style central garden had become well established. It is still one of Australia's most attractive cool climate gardens where each season is distinctly marked by the mature trees. The north gardens includes a wetlands reserve and in the south gardens there is the Ex-Pow Memorial Garden.

The Friends have a number of specialised interest groups which meet monthly and they all come together for quarterly general meetings and for the annual general meeting. These larger functions with guest speakers and refreshments are held at the Robert Clark Centre Centre in the gardens. As well as periodic seminars and workshops there are also excursions and special functions arranged for members and their friends. Seasonal luncheons and the Christmas barbecue in the Robert Clark Centre courtyard are events which have proved to be most popular.

Wellingtonia - our quarterly newsletter is distributed with the seasons to keep members informed about events and the activities of the groups.

For information about the benefits of becoming a member please click here.

Contact the Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens at:
Email: fbbg@ncable.net.au
Mail: The Secretary, Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens Inc
PO Box 33W Ballarat West, Vic 3350
ABN: 32 346 573 092
Telephone: Robert Clark Centre Conservatory (03) 5320 5135
Fax: (03) 5320 5133

Ballarat Botanical Gardens at Ballarat.com   Ballarat Botanical Gardens at Ballarat City Council website