The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (RBGV) has been presented with the Major Tourist Attractions award at the recent Victorian Tourism Awards as the popular attraction prepares for the school holidays.
RBGV Chief executive and Director, Tim Entwisle said the award was recognition that the Gardens were not only a place for contemplation, learning and science, but one of the world’s “great tourist destinations”.
“We have big events planned for both Gardens,” Mr Entwisle said.
“RBGV offers a strong program of visitor experiences including guided walks, nature education, Indigenous led walks, mini-bus tours, picnic packages, retail, food and beverage and arts and cultural experiences,” he said.
“The organisation is committed to creating a welcoming gateway to nature in Victoria with the development of a Nature and Science Precinct.”
Mr Entwisle said the new precinct would attract tourism and become a place where visitors engaged in lifelong learning.
“The precinct responds to evidence highlighting the link between increased connection with nature and improved physical and mental wellbeing,” he said.
He said that from 21 December to 28 January, nature-based activities would be available at Melbourne and Cranbourne Gardens, including free activities where families could spend time outdoors exploring nature and playing with natural materials.
“For school holiday favourite Botanica: A Village Among the Oak Trees, children and families are invited to create cubbies and craft creatures from natural materials.”
Mr Entwisle said Cranbourne Gardens would also host a free activity – Summer Nature Play – in January, where children could explore the trees in the Australian Garden and create animal habitats with natural materials.
Further information on RGBV’s school holiday program can be accessed at this PS News link.
