Cultural Heritage Significance

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens heritage significance has many aspects. The oldest botanical garden in Queensland is located in Brisbane’s central city on the banks of the Brisbane River. Originally called the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, it was established in 1855. It was among the first places to be listed under the Queensland State heritage legislation back in 1989 and one of the few non-buildings to be included.

The gardens have many attractions. Some of my favourites are the mature trees, native plants, palms, water features, sculptures, winding paths, rolling lawns, a quaint café (with white Ibis) and, of course, beautiful flowers including the Hibiscus Garden (above) and masses of marigolds (below) in circular beds which were attracting the bees.

There is a variety of wildlife including possums at night. I took a photo (below) of a camouflaged Kookaburra. Can you SPOT THE KOOKABURRA in the tree?

These gardens are so different to what I remember as a youngster, they are now lush and green, better planted and more well managed. I love Weeping Fig Avenue and Bamboo Grove but have no current photos. Do you know I have never seen an event at the River Stage! Many events are hosted within the grounds including the spectacular night-time Botanica Light Show in May.

The little house on stilts (above) has significant meaning for our river city. I tried to take a photo of it at night, but it got lost in the evening mist on the mysterious pond.  

♥  Gretchen Bernet-Ward

Information highlights:
https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/council-venues-and-precincts/parks/city-botanic-gardens/attractions

• Bamboo Grove
• Cannon (serial 63914)
• Jemmy Morrill and the Brolgas sculpture
• Ornamental ponds
• River frontage
• Riverstage
• Walter Hill Fountain
• Weeping Fig Avenue
• All abilities playground