Friends support for the Gardens - a record year

2021-2022 marked a new record for financial support to the Gardens by the Friends.

Everyone will now be familiar with the redevelopment of the East Core precinct: the lawn replanted and named the Friends Lawn, much improved pathways, and the extension of the deck outside the Pollen café. The Friends contributed $285,000 toward this project, and the Friends Public Fund a further $30,000 for a total contribution of $315,000. This is a huge project that Council deliberated upon for many months. In 2021-22 the Friends also funded interpretive signage on the Metallic Green Carpenter Bee, and the preparation of a design for a possible exhibition in the foyer of the Visitor Information Centre. As well, the Friends Public Fund supported the production of an excellent video on ANBG conservation activities and additional interpretive signage in the Banksia Garden.

Consistent with tradition, Friends acquired two artworks which were presented to the ANBG: Brenda Runnegar’s photograph Flannel Flowers and a painting by Cornelia Buchen-Osmond, Hakea scoparia.

Project spending during the year amounted to $344,680 as follows:

Friends Public Fund

• Banksia Interpretation materials $3,950
• Conservation Video $9,090
• East Core Precinct $30,000

Subtotal: $43,040
Friends Funding

• Artworks $600
• Metallic Bee signage $1,040
• East Core Precinct $285,000
• Visitor Centre Exhibition $15,000

Subtotal: $301,640
Total for 2021-2022: $344,680

Photo: The view across the Friends Lawn towards the new cafe deck