The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is to host its 175th anniversary autumn celebration next weekend (22 May), a day of free expert tours, creative workshops and self-guided activities.
Director and Chief Executive of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Tim Entwisle said the event, Garden Gathering Vol 2, would take place at Melbourne Gardens’ Oak Lawn and surrounding areas, including the National Herbarium of Victoria.
“This event is extra special because it gives visitors a look into the usually hidden parts of the Gardens as well as the knowledge of the people who work here,” Professor Entwisle said.
“Participants can have a sneak peek into the mysterious Herbarium of Victoria, or a chance to hear from one of the world’s leading Fungi experts, Dr Tom May, or delve into the fascinating bushfoods found on site,” he said.
“The Melbourne Gardens site has a deep Aboriginal history and many of the activities will allow visitors to explore the collections from a new perspective.”
Professor Entwisle said one of the day’s highlights would be Hidden Herbarium, a tour through the hidden passageways of the National Herbarium of Victoria led by Manager of Collections at the Gardens, Pina Milne.
“Families can ignite their inner botanist and start their own plant specimen collection in My First Herbarium, an interactive family friendly workshop,” the Director said.
“Participants will venture through the gardens to discover the processes botanists use for studying identifying and classifying plants.”
He said those who preferred to enjoy the Gardens at their own pace could choose from a series of self-guided activities, including the second episode of the Gardens’ Sonica Botanica; a DIY nature poetry guide, Tree VERSE; and a Seek and Find Nature card.
Further information, including how to register for the free event, can be accessed at this PS News link.
