Event 2 2021- Melton Botanic Garden




Event Report by Kerren Melgaard

Today was a surprise. My third visit to a garden designed for a dry climate, this time at the end of summer, held an expectation of a parched ground with withered flora, brown and grey being the colour palette. Not so. Fresh green growth on eucalypts, red on proteas and a dazzling display of colour from kangaroo paw, ericas and eremophilas to name a few.

This volunteer-led garden is a two decade “work in progress” featuring Australian native plants and those from countries such as South Africa and America which tolerate low water conditions. John, our guide, showed us how this once industrial wasteland, with the vision, planning and hard work of many volunteers, can be converted into a place where both people and wildlife can enjoy.  Mounds of bare earth become mounds with paths, which become themed garden beds. Public funding and local council support along with external expertise, have also helped bring this open garden from “a good idea” to national recognition.  (see the link after the photos for a detailed history of the garden)

John briefing the group at the start of the tour



Volunteers buiding a new garden bed










LINKS

History of the Garden

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