A retail display nursery will soon be constructed at the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens.
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On November 29, the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens (SHBG) received a federal government grant to make the nursery plans come to life.
Whitlam MP Stephen Jones presented the society a cheque for nearly $9000 to partially fund the project.
SHBG chairman Charlotte Webb OAM said the funding is greatly appreciated.
“This will give the Garden a chance to do what it does well – grow and sell plants,” she said.
“We will showcase the skills and expertise of the garden’s volunteers and experienced operators.
“The nursery will deliver an important service to the public in providing rare and highly sought-after plants suited to the cool climate conditions of the Southern Highlands.”
The nursery will be operated under the care and control of expert horticulturalists.
“The project will also encourage more volunteers to become involved in the garden and the sale of the plants will provide much needed revenue for the expansion and maintenance of the garden,” Ms Webb said.
Mr Jones last visited the garden in June 2016 at the launch of gardens and planted a Eucalypt tree.
“Its great to be back here, I’m reminded of the official launch, and the great commitment of the volunteers of the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens,” he said.
“The garden has really come so far.”
A special presentation was also made to one of the Friends of the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens.
Judy Keast was presented with a life membership by Ms Webb and Mr Jones.
“Judy was one of the original friends and we are so pleased to be able to bestow this life membership on her,” Ms Webb said.
Ms Webb said the nursery build would begin next year.