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Eastern Hill, on the edge of Corio Bay, was set aside in 1851 as the location for Geelong’s botanic garden. The Wadawurrung (Wathaurong) people had cared for this land for 60,000 years, and it had provided food, medicine, tools and clothing. Near the Gardens, middens provide evidence of a diet rich in plants, seafood and land animals.
The gardens have evolved and developed over time. Today, the Geelong Botanic Gardens occupy seven hectares at the heart of Eastern Park. Unique in layout, they are compact, yet provide extensive displays of plants and gardens of the 19th, 20th and 21st Centuries in a pristine environment.
The Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens was formed in 1985 at a public meeting with people interested in supporting our Botanic Gardens. Incorporation and adoption of the Constitution was completed in1987. The Friends is a 'non-profit' organisation with over 300 members enjoying our program of events, including botanical art, tours and functions. Members may be able to volunteer their time or expertise to support the Friends or to do volunteer work at the Gardens. All members receive a discount at our Nursery and at our events. A discount is also available from some Geelong businesses.
The Friends support and celebrate the Geelong Botanic Gardens as a place for:
- plants and people
- discovery and learning
- ideas and innovation
- engagement and pride
- conservation and environment
- quiet contemplation.
The Friends support a range of programs and activities within the Gardens and beyond:
- a quarterly newsletter Jubaea
- financial and volunteer support for the GBG Education Program
- volunteers in the Gardens at the Perennial Border and the Heritage Rose Garden
- the Trustee of the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens Gift Fund
- the Friends' Geelong School of Botanical Art
- The Friends' Plant Nursery
- Volunteer Guides offer Walks and Talks and produce information brochures
- the Botanic Gardens Library
New members are always welcome. Member benefits include priority information on workshops, tours, lectures and other events, regular newsletters and members discounts. If you would like more information, please contact the Friends' Office or download an Information Brochure. A Membership Application Form is also available.
Contact
Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens
PO Box 235 GEELONG VIC 3220
Phone: (03) 5222 6053
Email:
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 10.00 am - 1.00 pm
Banner Photographs
The Bronze Cranes after Yarn Bombing 2012 (Helena Buxton)
The Pop-Up Gallery, February 2014 (Judith Kennedy)
The Silver Border and a 'Bunce Bollard' (Judith Kennedy)
Work in a Botanical Art Class (Helena Buxton)
The Perennial Border (Judith Kennedy)
