Achievements
Since November 1985, when the Friends was formed to support the Geelong Botanic Gardens and Eastern Park, an enormous amount has been achieved by this 'non-profit' organisation, through the involvement of their members as volunteers. A summary of the achievements is listed below and a detailed list is available. see Achievements List or contact the Friends' office for a copy.
$260,801 Financial Contributions by the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens
This includes contributions for the development of the 1994 Master Plan, development of the 21st Century Garden and restoration of the Eastern Park Rotunda.
$27,338 Financial Contributions by the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens Gift Fund read more Gift Fund
Established by the Friends in 1997, the Gift Fund has Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status with the Australian Taxation Office. This total includes $10,000 for the Education Program at Geelong Botanic gardens
$35,000 Education Program at Geelong Botanic Gardens read more Education
In 1999, the first Education Program was offered at the Geelong Botanic Gardens by our Volunteer Guides. From 2002 - 2012, the Friends employed an Education Officer. At the beginning of 2013, the Friends handed management of the Education Program to the City of Greater Geelong and continue to support the delivery of the program with an annual contribution of $10,000 (supported by funds of the Friends and the Gift Fund)
$31,000 Financial Contributions by member donations, sponsorship or public subscription
This includes contributions for the installation of the Bunce Bollards and the purchase of a computerised plant labelling machine.
$229,112 Funds obtained for the benefit of Geelong Botanic Gardens and Eastern Park
Funds have been sourced by the Friends from many organisations including Parks Vic, Federation Community Project, Heritage Victoria and the City of Greater Geelong. The Friends continue to seek funds to support the precinct. Some areas which have benefitted from these grants have been the Cabmens’ Shelter, the Hitchcock and Traill Fountains and the GBG Reference Library. Applications have been written or supported by the Friends.
$41,575 Financial Contributions by the Friends for the GBG Meeting Room
The development of the GBG Reference Library and fit-out of the Meeting Room is a significant benefit for the community.
$21,682 Financial Contributions by the Friends for Interpretation and Promotion
The Friends continue to promote the precinct with Geelong and Bellarine Tourism, What’s On magazine the website and social media
The Volunteer Guides
These Friends have promoted the Gardens to the public since 1986. read more Guides and Walks, Talks and the Gardens