Hunter Region Botanic Gardens Celebrates 40 Years

Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is marking a major milestone this year - its 40th anniversary - making Botanic Gardens Day (Australia/New Zealand) an especially meaningful occasion for the Gardens and its community.

The Art Space Gallery will feature archival photos from across the Gardens' four-decade history, and an official address will commence at 11am in the Environment Pavilion, where original founding members will share their stories from the very beginning.

A range of special talks is scheduled throughout the day, covering topics including bonsai, succulents, orchids, native ponds, grevilleas, rainforests, bush foods, birds and bees — each with its own unique story rooted in this special place. The program is packed, so plan to stay for the day and make the most of it.

Botanic gardens are so much more than a park with trees. Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is run entirely by volunteers who bring passion and expertise to every plant on display. Scientific research is also an integral part of the Gardens, and limited herbarium tours (usually closed to the public) will be available on the day.

In conjunction with Botanic Gardens Australia, visitors can take part in the Grow Your Health Challenge, with great prizes up for grabs. The challenge ties in beautifully with the new Mindfulness Walk launched at the Gardens in March this year.

Entertainment will be provided by wandering minstrels throughout the day, and food options include a sausage sizzle, the Kookaburra Cafe, and a scone stall — or bring a picnic and settle in.

Visitors are also welcome to take home a plant, become a member of Hunter Region Botanic Gardens, or sign up as a volunteer.

The event is free to attend, with donations warmly welcomed. Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is not Council-run and receives no ongoing government funding; it relies on entry fees, event days, donations, sponsorship, and bequests to keep the Gardens thriving. Speak to staff or volunteers on the day to find out how you can help grow the Gardens.

For more information, visit huntergardens.org.au.