Vol 18 issue 2 growing matters winter 2016 by Noreen Swan

Growing Matters BGANZ Open Day Report BGANZ Open Day in the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens

Eucalyptus haemastoma Scribbly Gum: Image by L. Ryan

Photo Spread

Volume 18

Issue 2 Winter 2016

2016 Committee President

Treasurer

Communications

Alex Jakimoff

Harry Ellis

Noreen Swan

Vice President

Australian Plants

Technology

Neil Morley

Richard Phillipps

Hans Veenendaal

Secretary

Education

Patron

David Fitzgerald

Rana Baguley

Banksia aemula (Wallum Banksia) - our logo emblem - and that of the Gold Coast

Gene Rosser

Cover Photo Eucalyptus haemastoma

The Scribbly Gum Tree Scribbly Gum is a web site devoted to celebrating seasonal events in the natural world with a new story every month and an interactive forum. A great place for anyone who finds joy in observing the everyday wonders of Nature. The Scribbly Gum site is named after the scribbly gum tree - an iconic Australian tree with a trunk that looks like someone has drawn (or scribbled) all over it. The scribbly gum tree is a eucalypt with a very smooth, pale trunk. The distinctive brownish 'scribbles' are made by the larvae of the tiny scribbly moth. These larvae are harmless to the tree and, though found on many eucalypts, it's only in a few varieties - commonly -



where these ‗signatures‘ become the most pronounced feature of the tree: Visit: http://www.abc.net.au/science/ scribblygum/index_state_qld.htm

Scribbly-Gum by Judith Wright The cold spring falls from the stone. I passed and heard the mountain, palm and fern spoken in one strange word. The gum-tree stands by the spring. I peeled its splitting bark and found the written track of a life I could not read. (used with permission from A Human Pattern: Selected Poems (EPTT) Imprint, 1996)

E. haemastoma, E. racemosa or E. sclerophylla Friends of Gold Coast

Contents On this page: 2016 Committee  Cover Photo

P16 Autumn at the Friends Centre  DiG News

P3 Curator’s column  From the President

P17 Education - Telling the Story

P4 Birds of the Gardens  Garden Maintenance

P18 Mother’s Day Flowers  Snippets

P5 Nursery News etc

P19 Book Review

P6 & 7 Australian Plants

P20 Volunteer Garden Guides  Climate Watch

P8 Threatened Species

P21 Friends Activities  The Herbarium (a field

P9 BGANZ Open Day a Hit P10, 11, 12 & 13 Open Day May 29 2016

Special Event - Pictorial P14 Education Pavilion at last P15 Secretary’s Desk  Story of our Country

study) P22 Calendar of Activities  Watercolour Classes P23 Dick’s Challenge #4  The rose Garden P24 Craft  Archive  Coffee@the gardens

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Curator’s Column Congratulations to everyone who was involved in a fantastic first Botanic Gardens Open Day! Volunteers and staff all worked really hard to make the event a success, and it was great to see so many people of all ages enjoying the Botanic Gardens and learning a bit more about what we do. It was especially exciting to see some new Friends volunteers joining us for this event, and I Liz Caddick look forward to working with you all and getting to know you better. The other big news is that the playground is open and ready for play. The new playground has been designed to integrate with the natural and organic theme of the Botanic Gardens, where the whole garden is considered a playground and learning experience for children. The playscape has been expanded to include landscaped rock gardens that are connected to the formal equipment by stepping stones and balance beams, which children of all ages can explore and enjoy. A mix of formal and more natural play structures encourages children to be more exploratory, imaginative and adventurous in their play, all of which is important for today‘s children to develop their cognitive, social and emotional skills. Recent studies into ‗nature play‘ www.natureplayqld.org.au/ strongly suggest that play in a natural, outdoor environment, like the Botanic Gardens, can be important in helping our kids to become calmer, better learners and better problem solvers. Nature play was a key theme of the recent Open Day activities, where children were encouraged to explore the gardens and create their own ‗journey stick‘ as a memory of their visit. The Friends school holiday activities also focus on play within the natural environment, and both adults and kids will have lots of chances to connect to nature through play at Discovery in the Gardens on Sunday August 13th. Onto other news, the new toilet is finally finished and will hopefully make a visit to the Gardens an easier experience for many. Our maintenance team have also recently acquired a new compact, multi-purpose tractor. This new vehicle is suitable for loading mulch, rocks, sand and soil, while being small enough to access most parts of the gardens. The tractor is saving the team a huge amount of time, allowing them to focus on other tasks. Liz Caddick

From the President As I am writing this the weather forecast is for significant rain this weekend, which is sorely needed in the Botanic Gardens as well as our own gardens. Irrigation only goes so far, there is nothing as effective as a good downpour! The Friends are very excited about the success of the recent inaugural Open Day where the

Alex Jakimoff public could go ‗behind the scenes‘ and see how botanic gardens operate. Not just here but

simultaneously across Australia and New Zealand. While the details are covered elsewhere in this newsletter, I‘ll just say that the Friends pulled together as a team and did a marvelous job in preparation and the work on the day itself. While there are too many people to thank individually, I must mention the outstanding role performed by our energetic coordinator Sally-Anne who managed to organize the various facets and still keep her sanity…well done everyone. We received such positive feedback from the public enjoying the event which makes it all worthwhile. Whether they were planting, being guided on walks, inspecting herbarium and native flora displays, or listening to music and enjoying a day out in their Botanic Gardens, we made it happen! It was good to see some of our City of Gold Coast Councillors there too. All were invited to see our city‘s valuable asset, which unfortunately is not always recognized as being a whole of city asset rather than just belonging to a single division or Councillor. At the March Council elections the Friends surveyed the candidates to gauge their awareness and support for the Gardens. All the responses were very positive, although surprisingly not all the existing or new Councillors responded, so evidently we still have considerable work to do increasing awareness of our Gardens priorities. Our recent May General Meeting gave members the opportunity to become more involved, meet other Friends and learn more of our many various activities. The Friends are grateful to Southport Rotary for their grant approval of more interpretive signage, showcasing the birds to be seen and enjoyed within the Gardens. It‘s wonderful to see our close relationship with Rotary International continuing to develop. On March 11 the opening of the Rotary Education Pavilion donated by Gold Coast Rotary was another exciting development. It‘s good to see it already being booked and used. The environmental education of our schoolchildren is one of the most rewarding aspects of the Friends activities. As Albert Einstein said: ‗Look deep into Nature, and then you will understand everything better..’ I look forward to the Discovery in the Gardens in August, and hope to see you there. Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Birds of the Garden #6

Tawny Frogmouth

(Podarus strigoides)

When venturing into the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, be on the lookout for the bird kingdom‘s master of camouflage, the Tawny Frogmouth. It is only rarely spotted during the day due to its highly effective ‗camouflage pose‘ where it sits in a tree stiffly posed to mimic a broken branch. The Tawny Frogmouth‘s grey, fawn and brown streaked and mottled plumage resembles the lichen covered, weathered bark of the tree in which it rests. They point their bill upward to further mimic a sharply broken branch. This common nocturnal bird has a stocky body, large yellow eyes and a wide heavy bill topped with distinctive tufts of bristles. It is from this wide frog-like mouth that frogmouths take their name. Male Tawny Frogmouths are usually quite grey, whereas the female has more of a rufous/brown plumage. One of Australia‘s most common birds, (found in all areas except thick rainforests and treeless desert areas) they are quite at home here in the Botanic Gardens. To those with an observant eye, they can sometimes be spotted in the tall clumps of casuarina, she oaks adjacent to Royal Pines. Often confused with owls because of their appearance and nocturnal habits, the Tawny Frogmouth differs because it has weak feet and lacks talons, using its bill rather than feet to capture food. Unlike the hooked beak of an owl, Tawnies have a distinctive wide beak. A Tawny Frogmouth‘s diet consists mainly of species regarded as pests. Frogmouths are night hunters, swooping from a low perch and gliding on silent wings to catch ground dwelling creatures including night insects, worms, frogs, snails, spiders, small mammals and birds. The catch is usually taken to a nearby branch to be consumed. By day the Tawny Frogmouth sits motionless regardless of visitor activity below. The low muffled oom-oom-oom-oom can often be heard at night. A rough, platform nest made of sticks and lined with a few leaves is built on a horizontal fork in the tree branch. Two to four glossy, white eggs are laid during spring, with the male incubating during the day and the female by night. Tawny Frogmouths are often those most reported as injured due to their night time hunting habits. They are often hit by cars while chasing insects illuminated by the beam of the headlights. Luckily this is not a problem in the sanctity of the Gardens where lighting hopefully makes it easier to find their evening meal. Text & Images by Jenny Rosewell

Gardening Alex Jakimoff Gardening coordinator Welcome to the new volunteers in our team such as Griffith University students Lisa, Carlos, Ashley and Teleri. It‘s great to have some younger people pulling down our average age! .. and also welcoming some other recent gardeners Claudio, Graham and Catharine who are joining in the fun. Recently we prepared areas for Community Planting during Open Day. The focus here was to provide a colourful understorey of native shrubs which will brighten up the pathways through the Mangroves to Mountains transect. It was so rewarding to show newcomers the joy of adding new plant life to the gardens. Some had never planted anything before. Seeing their joy in connecting to nature confirms an integral part of our gardening culture. We get a dose every Wednesday morning. Working in this area is such a pleasure as we see the native bees going about their daily activity and the

hairpin banksia showing off its spectacular flowers for the hungry noisy lorikeets . Not to be outdone, our rose garden volunteers have also been excited about planting new rose varieties which draw a steady stream of positive comments from the public. Now that we are in the cooler time of year we Claudio, Graham, Hans and David can turn our attention to pruning and shaping, planting and nurturing our wonderful range of flora. Feel like getting your hands in the soil and connecting with Nature while enjoying our companionship? … we can always fit in new gardening companions! Alex Jakimoff

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Nursery News The BGANZ Open Day presented Friends Nursery Volunteers with an opportunity to show visitors to the Botanic Gardens what we actually do and to display the plants we grow for sale for Friends. It was felt that it was a great opportunity to have our Propagation Workshop and Plant Sale located at the nursery, with the longer term view of getting prospective customers familiar with the location. In this way our full range of plants could be better displayed, in addition to the smaller range of plants that we normally sell from the Friends Centre. The logistics of getting visitors to the nursery was an obvious concern which, thankfully, didn‘t seem to be an issue as things turned out. The first sale of the day reinforced the importance of the nursery. A customer with a $50.00 birthday gift seeking locally rare or threatened plants. We accommodated his need with a number of vulnerable or threatened plants including Lepiderema pulchella, Cupaniopsis newmanii and Endiandra globosa. The last month of activities at the nursery was focussed on detailing and labelling the plants we intended to sell, ranging from herbs and cottage plants to our full range of native trees, shrubs and

annual plants. In addition we had a number of orchids that proved to be popular on the day. My thanks go to all our volunteers for their great work prior to, and on the day. It was very pleasing to see all our hard work come to fruition and that our sales figures were encouraging. Thanks to a last minute sale of 2 orchids, our sales figures for the day reached just over $700.00. Good interest was also shown in the propagation workshop with around a dozen visitors seated at the marquee. From their questions and comments it seemed that the presentation was well received. My thanks also go to the volunteers who assisted with the presentation. There are a few construction and site access issues currently being addressed with the nursery extension however we are optimistic that the Workshop and Plant Sales for the day demonstrated the potential for selling direct from the nursery in future. Finally a big thanks to Open Day Coordinator SallyAnne, Liz, Council and other Friends for their assistance on the day, it was a great day for Friends. We now work from 7.00 to 11.00 am on Fridays, with a break of about 30 mins to chat and refresh.

Cool on Wednesday Morning Cool on Wednesday Morning Freshly slanting sun New dew is there to greet us Pollens fill the lungs. Clatter at the tool store Greetings and a grin 'What do we do today boss'? Of course, same bloody thing. Weeding, planting, pruning Sore nails and muddy knees Gossip, news and banter Happy repartee. Butcher birds and magpies Rails and cockatoos They wonder what we see in it This pastime that we choose. But to watch the gardens growing And feel the seasons roll It's the beauty and the challenge Enough to fill the soul.

Kate, Pat and Ailsa inspecting the Nursery stock for Open Day sales.

Dick Baber

Ed. Dick is a valued member of Friends. Not only does he do Gardening Maintenance on Wednesday mornings but he does the Crossword and, ... he does woodworking having made all the shelving and hangers for the gardening tools and other paraphernalia in the undercroft, ... countless items for other people, and is presently almost finished preparing a ‗lectern‘ for our Visitor‘s Book - .. and he writes poetry! Amazing Dick Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Australian Plants Gold Coast explore the forests at Goomburra Eager to learn some new Australian plants, ten members gathered to explore the Goomburra section of Main Range National Park, 10 km north of Cunninghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Gap, 16-18 April 2016.

lanceolata, both needing a cool microclimate for growth.

Another peppery herb growing over the rotting tree logs was Peperomia tetraphylla, a real cutie with On Friday afternoon we walked the short Dalrymple edible peppery leaves and tiny white flowers along its Creek Circuit on the edge of Manna Gum small stem. campground. There was a reminder of the early timber cutting days - a huge rotting Sydney blue gum stump. Rainforest and sclerophyll are regenerating here along the creek with tall Sydney blue gums Eucalyptus saligna. We saw thickets of ferns Calochlaena dubia and Doodia aspera, white bolly gums Neolitsea dealbata and forest oak Allocasuarina torulosa. Fleays Barred Frog still exist here but we saw none. We read from a plaque that its tadpoles are large, growing up to 6 cms. The next day we walked to Araucaria Falls through rainforest growing in a rich red basalt area, damp [Pic: Graham McDonald] underfoot, with fungi spotted regularly. Luminous fungii were found on rotting logs in the rainforest. That afternoon along the Sylvesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lookout track we had a magnificent view of the escarpment with plains below and the high rises of Brisbane in the distance. At that spot where the rainforest stopped abruptly grew two delicate vines - a flowering clematis, Clematis glycinoides, and the slender cucumber vine Neoachmandra cunninghamii, covered in little green fruit. The fruit tasted very similar to cucumbers and would be a great addition to any green salad.

Fungus Omphalotus nidiformis photographed at night by Graham McDonald using only its own luminescence

This walk was named for the hoop pines Araucaria cunninghamii which were prevalent in this area. The Araucaria are a very ancient plant family and include the bunya, hoop, and Norfolk Island pines in Australia. Along this track we saw yellow carabeen Sloanea woollsii, white quandong Elaeocarpus kirtonii, prickly ash Orites excelsa and the rainforest mat rush, Lomandra spicata, with its bright orange-yellow berries. The brush pepperbush Tasmannia insipida had some irresistible shiny purple berries and although edible, the flesh was insipid and juicy and the seeds were very, very hot! This is a relative of the Tasmanian mountain pepper Tasmannia

Again the forest was dominated by huge strangler figs, Ficus watkinsiana, and the yellow carabeen with their huge buttresses. Graham identified many trees by their bark and trunks including a rosewood Dysoxylum fraserianum and churnwood Citronella moorei. Sloanea woollsii Yellow Carabeen Pic Peter Reilly

On the forest floor there were ferns, mosses and lichens everywhere.

(Continued on page 7)

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Local Native Plants

(Continued from page 6) On Sunday morning, we walked into the rainforest to the Mt Castle Lookout and a part of the weedy Winders track offering magnificent views and vegetation similar to those on the Sylvester‘s Lookout trail.

A guide to identifying & growing local flora

Walking Stick Palm (Linospadix monostachya)

A few orchid enthusiasts explored the Cascades trail (off the Dalrymple Circuit) finding the helmet orchid Corybas hispidus, some greenhood orchids Pterostylis russellii and ―very hard to spot‖ mosquito orchids Acianthus fornicatus. At the end of each day, we enjoyed Happy Hours and one night we were treated Corybas hispidus Rare Helmet to the McDonald‘s West Orchid. Pic Kris Tayler Australian 2015 wildflowers photos. Thank you Beth and Graham for organising such a great excursion complete with plant lists and itineraries to an area where none of us had ventured before. Kris Tayler

Family: Arecaceae Status: Common in sub-tropical rainforest Distribution: Gympie to Bulahdelah (NSW) Habitat: Usually grows on moist well-drained soils and in riparian rainforest on stream banks. Always in shaded locations. Habit: A solitary slender feather-leaved palm with trunk 1-4m tall and 2-3cm thick. Graceful crown of short dark green fronds. Flowers a simple pendulous spike 1-1.5m long, male and female separate.

Flooded gums Eucalyptus grandis and rainforest Pic: Peter Reilly

Coming Program for your diary Sat 18 June: Labels working bee at Bonni‘s 158 Country Cres. Nerang 25, 26 June: Mudgeeraba Show. Helpers please! [Beth 0418 745 279] 30 Jul: Excursion to Cameron‘s Falls, Tamborine [Beth 0418 745 279] 13 Aug: Science Week and DIG at the Gardens 2 Nov: AGM, Friends Centre 10 Dec: Christmas Party—details TBC

Cultivation: Easily grown in the garden, strings of red or yellow fruit are a decorative feature. Need complete shade, organically rich well-drained soil and plenty of surface mulch. Appreciate water during dry times and light fertilising during warmer months. As a potted indoor specimen they need to be rested outside. Suffer from two-spotted mite. Propagation: From seed that germinates easily 4-6 weeks after sowing. Seed loses viability in 10-14 days. [Text: Graham McDonald, author Grow Natives on the Gold Coast: a practical guide for gardeners—available from the Friends Centre for $10 Photo: Peter Reilly]

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

An Education Pavilion at last

Pavilion in use for Bushfoods class

More than 50 guests gathered for the official opening of the Rotary Education Pavilion on Friday 11 March 2016. Special guests included:

 Rotarian Justin Schaffer up from Sydney  Councillors Taylor, Grummitt, and Bell  The current and future leaders of Rotary District 9640 – District

Governor Ann Egan, District Governor Elect Michael Irving and District Governor Nominee Darrell Brown Dr Liz Caddick, Curator of the GCRBG, Alex Jakimoff, President of the FGCRBG, Gene Rosser – Patron of the Friends, and past presidents of FGCRBG Kate Heffernan and Nick Bloor. Friends and Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Gold Coast were also welcomed. The opening of the Rotary Education Pavilion has been a long time coming. Even longer for Justin Schaffer who donated a significant sum of money to Gold Coast Rotary intending it to be used to provide ongoing education programs for young people in an area not catered for by main stream schools. After several false starts the need for a multipurpose shelter within the Gardens for use in education programs and for housing interpretative displays was identified. The Pavilion had to be befitting of a Botanic Gardens and something which acknowledged Rotary and its community service. Justin was proud to officially open a signature structure designed by Andrew Brewer from Burling Brown Architects. He gave a moving speech, advocating philanthropy and thanking Gold Coast Rotary for its support and perseverance in bringing this pavilion to fruition. President Lynda Hynes had much pleasure in presenting Justin with Honorary Membership of Gold Coast Rotary. Alex Jakimoff then presented both Justin and the Rotary Club of Gold Coast with Life Memberships of the Friends of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. The support of Councillor Paul Taylor was acknowledged before Kate Heffernan talked briefly about, and then unveiled her latest creation – Stage 1 of the interpretation signs for this pavilion. Dr Liz Caddick, Curator of the Botanic Gardens rounded out the program by explaining the importance of education in the charter of Botanic Gardens and how the pavilion would provide a valuable resource for future programs. Drinks and fellowship followed in the Pavilion and under the newly acquired Friends marquees.

Kate Heffernan with the interpretation signs that she has created - a work in progress.

Justin Schaffer with Gene Rosser both Octogenarians

David Baguley Project Manager, Rotarian and Friend

Justin with his grandchildren, Simon and Jess

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Southern Ochrosia Greater storm intensity, increased heat stress, weed infestation and other damaging effects of climate change present an ever-growing risk to rainforest plants such as Ochrosia moorei, Southern Ochrosia. Vegetation of the incredibly diverse Border Ranges is in jeopardy, and a number of plant communities, habitats and species, including Ochrosia moorei are included in the regional recovery plan of The Border Ranges Rainforest Management Plan. It is listed as endangered under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C‘Wealth) and legislated as threatened in both Queensland and New South Wales. One of the many priorities and actions listed in the recovery plan is raising awareness within the community and with landcare managers. Southern ochrosia is among a number of V.I.P‘s, very important plants in the Botanic Gardens plant collection. Southern Ochrosia is described as a multi stemmed, small crooked tree with rough brown bark and leaves which vary in length from 8cm to 20cm, usually in pairs or threes. Belonging to the Family APOCYANACEAE broken or cut stems will exude milky sap. Flowers are small, white and clustered at the end of branches, followed by fruits which turn from green to scarlet. Distribution is limited to small populations, sometimes just one or two trees in the region between the Richmond River in Northern NSW and Springbrook in South East Queensland. The sap and fruit are toxic to humans. Along with other Ochrosia species from Australia and Africa it is reported as having been investigated for anti-cancer properties.

Etymology

Ochrosia moorei – from the Latin ‗ochraceus’ meaning yellow; and commemorating Scottish born Charles Moore, Director of RBG Sydney (1848 – 1896). Kate Heffernan Ref: www.environment.gov.au/; plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au; Border Ranges Rainforest Biodiversity Management Plan - NSW & Queensland Image - February 2016 at GCRBG Kate Heffernan

Open Day - Nursery open for business It was a wonderful delight for Friends of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens to see people experiencing the pleasure of our Nursery which was open to the public for the first time on Open Day. May there be many more with the hope of a full-time fixture....

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

Inaugural BGANZ Open Day – A hit! Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens were among over 70 botanic gardens nationally and in Southern New Zealand that participated in a very special Sunday May 29. BGANZ President John Sandham was pleased with the great result of gardens large and small and said: ―BGANZ is delighted with the outstanding support shown by our member Botanic Gardens, and the Australian and New Zealand public, for the initial BGANZ Open Day. We know the public love their local Botanic Garden, as over 11 million people visit every year in Australia and New Zealand, and people came out in great numbers to support the 76 Botanic Gardens and Arboretum taking part in Sundays Open Day‖. After receiving reports from botanic gardens during the following week John added: ―Our key message for the BGANZ Open Day was to increase the awareness of the vital work Botanic Gardens undertake in conservation. Save the plants, save the planet, that is our message and Botanic Gardens used many techniques and events to convey this at their BGANZ Open Day”. Other South East Queensland botanic gardens involved on the day were Tamborine Mountain, Maroochy Regional Bushland and the Brisbane City, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens as well as Sherwood Arboretum. Most botanic gardens across the state had events to mark the day.

Tamborine Mountain Botanic Garden General Manager Roger Lenehan with Kate at the Sooty Owl chainsaw carved seat, entrance to the Sooty Owl Walk. Image Alan Donaldson

According to Tamborine Botanic Gardens General Manager Roger Lenehan the day ‗went a treat’ with positive comments about their recently opened Sooty Owl board walk, and interest in presentations and displays on Richmond Birdwing Butterflies, Landcare and Botanic Art. Roger added that ―The Chainsaw Carver was a great hit, and he was able to sell one of his carvings that he did on the day‖. Their Friends plant and associated garden tool sales raised $1600 for this outstanding Friend‘s volunteer group‘s vital work.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens Curator Dale Arvidsson reported several competing huge Brisbane events on the day, but added that ―The Saturday walk at Sherwood Arboretum received 80 attendees, so the Friends were rapt. General activities in the Kitchen in the Garden and walks in the Herb and Fragrant Garden were popular, and small but enthusiastic numbers attended the Qld Herbarium and Q-SFL seedbank tour.‖ It appears the inaugural BGANZ Open Day introduced many visitors at the Gold Coast and across Australia and New Zealand to the critical role of botanic gardens. Roll on 2017! Promotion of the Open Day events was critical, with Gardening Australia Costa Georgiadis the event ambassador, promoting through national ABC TV and Radio, and BGANZ Executive Officer Eamonn Flanagan hard at work on media updates. Local and regional media also promoted the event. BGANZ Qld and GCRBG received great media support from ABC 91.7; GC Sun, and Over Fifties News. Friend‘s members Caroline Tan and Alan Donaldson were interviewed for Saturday Garden Talk and Open Day Coordinator Sally-Anne Simankowicz was interviewed for 91.7 weekday radio. Dale Arvidsson and Roger Lenehan were also guests of Garden Talk. Friends Communications Coordinator Noreen Swan ensured local web sites were aware of the event and Friends facebook, and GCRBG and Friends websites also featured the event. City of Gold Coast Music in the park also brought visitors to the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. Kate Heffernan, Qld BGANZ Representative to National Council & Friend GCRBG

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

P10

The Inaugural BGANZ Open Day was held in conjunction with Community Planting and Music in the Park May 29 2016. Open Day was held on this day in Botanic Gardens throughout Australia and New Zealand. We await reports from all.

That way to the Nursery

Community planting sign on and induction

Sausage sizzle just kept on sizzling Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

P11

BGANZ OPEN DAY MAY 29 2016 Sally-Anne Simankowicz Event Co-Ordinator With much thought and trepidation I agreed to being the for Open Day having being asked by the Committee weeks before the event. Not having ever done this knowing that some of the Committee and hardworking Members were going to be away on the Day, I decided plunge.

Co-ordinator approx. nine before but experienced to take the

This was an inaugural event for BGANZ (Botanic Gardens Australia and New Zealand) to showcase what their Gardens had to offer and all the special volunteer activities that they do. Kate Heffernan has been a driving force behind this and there were over 74 Botanic gardens across our two countries that participated in it – most holding their Open Day on May 29th. I was confident of the support and enthusiasm of the Committee and all the Friends Sub-Groups. With the Co-ordinators of Community Planting, Nursery, Australian Plants, Herbarium, Flowers by Friends, Pop -Up Photographic Gallery, Guided Walks and Children‘s Botanica being given autonomy to organise their activities, my job then was to coordinate it all. We were delighted to also have the Gold Coast Regional Beekeepers Association who maintain our native bee hives in the Gardens. It‘s been a learning curve working out the correct protocols of the way things should be done but what a great experience. Promotion of the Event to the public has been huge with Kate writing articles and on Talk Back Radio; Communications Team Noreen and myself have put it out in newspapers and for radio announcements and Curator Liz Caddick through all Council outlets. What a great Day. The weather was perfect, great crowds of enthusiastic visitors to all events including climbing up to the Nursery through the signposted Montane and paths for Nursery and Australian Plant sales. Hot sausage sandwiches, drinks, coffees and ice-creams kept everyone happy while also listening to and watching the Council‘s Music in the Park performances. So, it‘s a big thanks from me to all our Friends members and family of members who rallied on the day to work tirelessly and enthusiastically on Setting up, Pulling Down, running all the Events, Sausage Sizzle and manning the two information areas.

All hands & materials to make up a souvenir

Something else caught the attention of Tristan

Caroline and Sarah enjoying the sunshine and refreshments from coffee@thegardens

Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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A popular activity was Children’s Craft and we were very pleased to see these willing helpers L to R across this montage: Pat, Dale, Mary, Shelly, Caroline, Sarah and Colleen. Other helpers were Helen, Rena and Ailsa Image by Kate Heffernan

Family involvement

Relaxing and preparing - so much to observe and do

Flowers by Friends

A huge amount of interest was shown on Open Day - by long time enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with Australian native flora - in the display on the deck of the Friends‘ Centre. Similar materials were used as those in the Mothers‘ Day arrangements (see article P18). Many people said they had never seen such beautiful native flowers and others were intrigued by the nuts, seeds and bark. Thank you to the wonderful team members – Gene, Beverley, Laura, Sue and Kris - who produced this stunning display. The children‘s vase activity attracted enthusiastic participants who departed proudly carrying their creations. If you think you might like to join our group, and would like to come to an orientation session, please contact Claudia on 0429 412968. Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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The group listening to a briefing before embarking along the Mangroves to Mountains trail on their scheduled walk depicted left.

This group are depicted setting out along the Mountains to Mangroves trail on one of the 4 guided walks of the day. Montage Image: S. Dyson

Thank you to all who made contributions to the day and supplied the images contained in this Newsletter and the Pop-up Gallery which attracted many visitors and of which we have no photos! - wonderful selections and too many people to name

From the SECRETARY'S DESK David Fitzgerald The Management Committee has been very busy over the past few months. City of Gold Coast Council – Candidate Questionnaire In February, we sent out a questionnaire to the candidates for the City of Gold Coast Council elections. The questionnaire was partly to inform the candidates of the existence of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, partly to inform them of the benefits of the Gardens to the community and partly to obtain their commitment to the Gardens. We only received responses from 18 or about 1/3rd of those asked, which is about the norm for politicians. It was very pleasing that those 18 candidates expressed overwhelming support for the Gardens and continual development of this important City asset. General Meeting – 14 May 2016 Eighteen (18) members attended the Friends General Meeting on 14 May 2016 and there were apologies from another nineteen (19). A broad range of issues were discussed, including the City of Gold Coast's Master Plan Review from 2015. Discussion of this topic centred on the City's large commitment to a further survey of the Gardens in the new financial year, the development of a Memorandum of Understanding with the City and other aspects of Friends response to the review. In addition, briefings were provided by the coordinators in relation to the management of the Friends Centre, the Herbarium, Education, Climate Watch, the Bird Group, Communications, the Open Day/Music in the Park, the AAFGB Geelong Conference and Discovery in the Gardens (DIG) scheduled for 13 August 2016. Painting of the Friends Centre In late March 2016, Friends were advised of the possibility of Coles (the supermarket variety) doing some community work for the Gardens on 18 April 2016. This was part of the promotion for the new store on the corner of Ross Road and Ashmore Road. We immediately put in a bid to have most the the external area of the Friends Centre painted. Unfortunately, the volunteers for that day were unable to do the painting, and instead washed down the walls and ceiling in preparation for the work. Coles arranged for the painting to be undertaken by a tradesperson and the work was completed on 19 May 2016. We wish to wholeheartedly thank Coles for this important contribution to Friends.

Story of our Country coastal area The Story of our Country garden was designed by Botanic Gardens Consultant, Kate Heffernan, who was the Project Horticulture Designer and Specialist Horticulture Supervisor. The design was based on extensive research into plant communities and suitable plant species, as well as information and suggested elements provided by Rory O‘Connor and representatives from Yugambeh Museum. Book a walk to learn the whole story info@friendsgcrbg.org.au Kate Heffernan We have chosen to reproduce this promotion of the newest planting in our gardens which has proved to be a very popular zone. A specialist guided walk group has been trained to showcase this area. ABC Local Radio 91.7 FM have been supporters of the Friends and Botanic Gardens events for many years. Now its Friends turn to support ABC 91.7 ! Gold Coast‘s own Gardening talkback gives locals their own garden show. Garden Talkback features Friends Founder , professional horticulturist and media writer Kate Heffernan. Tune in every Saturday from 9 a.m. as Kate gives garden hints with Amy McDonald, and producer Jo Kennett . Kate follows up listeners questions with gardening advice. ABC Local radio 91.7 Garden Talkback Gold Coast style!

Friends of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc are once again manning a drinks station at this the 38th annual Gold Coast Airport Marathon, to be held 2–3 July 2016. If you want to be part of the enthusiastic team cheering on the runners, handing out drink refreshments and celebrating the harmony of your fellow Friends then join us on Sunday July 3. Contact info@friendsgcrbg.org.au to see what you can do. See you there.

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Autumn at the Friends Centre with Sue Tierney - coordinator Editor‘s Note: Sue has taken time out for the present. We wish you good health and hope to see you around your beloved Botanic Gardens. All the best Sue to you and your family.

Red thumbs UP for Coles, Benowa Village for their community work, namely scrubbing the verandah and ceiling of the Friends Centre. They paid for professional painters to repaint the outside, fresh and clean with a pale grey colour a good backdrop for our garden greens. We have a pale and interesting FC for winter. What winter? The Indian Summer we have had attracted a steady stream of visitors from everywhere, especially locals. Locals must be subliminally absorbing our various media propaganda as more are saying they are returning after long absences and some for the first time after learning we are here. Comments in the Visitor Book have praised volunteers for their attention and service, so thank you volunteers for going beyond the call of duty. It‘s a pleasure really to work in a green space with coffee aromas (very botanical). Plants are the most popular sale items and honey a mainstay. The merchandise changes seasonally. This season we have another elegant display of quality Grevillea patterned fine china from Myall Park with an additional selection of plates and mugs. I love the Dorothy Gordon mug with its pretty lilac Grevillea. Our honey pots are now complemented by lovely moulded beeswax candles in various sizes, natural colours and relevant shapes. The honeycomb with a bee attached and flower shapes are very cute. They have a healthy aroma when lit and would be an unusual natural gift. Kevin Finn who makes them collects the beeswax from John de Boer‘s hives in Ashmore. John supplies our sweet local honey. New books gracing the shelves relate to bike trails and bushwalking, Family Bushwalks in S.E. Qld by Mark Roberts and a copy in our library of Family Cycling Trails by the same author. The maps are DIS, professional and fantastic. The Regional Birds book has sold out. Claudia‘s Flowers by Friends Group keeps the Friends Centre decorated with changing floral arrangements and long lasting artistic creations in Summer. Noreen‘s current Education display is tasty but you have to be quick to sample macadamias and lilly pillies or Davidson‘s Plums. Cumquat marmalade will be available by winter Solstice. [ed: Winter Solstice June 21 2016]. Merchandise suppliers: Pottery - Helen Parer from Potter's Corner Hand painted Botanic themed Cards & Bookmarks - Minjung Oh Scarves - Hand-painted by Natalya Khomenko Woodwork Items - beautiful wooden products by Mark Culleton Non-craft items from various suppliers - come in and check it all out.

DiG – Discovery in the Gardens! Mark this date

Where: Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens th

Put Saturday August 13 in your diaries and join us for Discovery in the Gardens 2016! We will be celebrating science, nature and all things gardening with a free event, where you‘re encouraged to get your hands dirty and explore the science that affects our every day lives. For kids there will be a wildlife show, mini-beast hunts, nature craft activities, nature adventures, live fire displays, face painting and more. For the grown ups, look out for guided walks, gardening talks by local experts, plant clinic, plant propagation workshop, botanical art, Bushtucker workshop, cooking demonstrations, sustainable energy display and plant sales. Also of course delicious food, live music and beautiful gardens for all to enjoy. Liz Caddick Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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Education Telling the Story Rana Baguley Education Coordinator The main educational focus since the Autumn Edition of Growing Matters has been seeking funding for the creation and installation of interpretive signs in the Gardens. We have grown the gardens but now it is time to tell the story of the plants to share with our many visitors and school groups! With the Official Opening of the Rotary Education Pavilion in March, six interpretive signs with highly visual images, designed by Kate Heffernan, illustrate the botany of plants. Gold Coast Rotary funded these signs. The Gold Coast Bushwalkers Club has helped to fund the new Butterfly Garden sign. The Friends have committed to funding a number of other signs throughout the Gardens, which will help visitors to understand the History, the Mangroves to Mountains Transect, the Biodiversity of the Gold Coast Region, the Bush Foods Garden and the Rose Garden. Friends have applied for grants to fund three interpretive signs for Story of our Country, and small interpretive signs for Indigenous Use Plants throughout the Mangroves to Mountains Transect and finally Bird signs for the many birds that have made the lake and lagoons their home. Great news from the Rotary Club of Southport â&#x20AC;Ś it has approved the grant for the Bird signs. Friends are hoping that the other two grant applications will be successful! School holiday programs will be held during the July Holidays, thanks to our wonderful volunteers! Bookings are essential on 0449 651 674. Cost is $5.00 per child. Let your family know about these nature-based activities

Kids in Conservation: Grow That Plant: Friday 1 July, 9:00 - 11:00am Learn how to grow your own native plants from seeds and cuttings. Take your plants home and help grow a habitat in your backyard.

Botanica Quest: Dare to Discover Friday 8 July

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just potted my very own plant! Photo: K De Jong

9:00 - 10:00; 10:00 - 11:00am Join the adventure of Botanica Quest! Follow the directions; interact with Nature while discovering the Botanic Gardens. Solve the Quests and collect your treasure!

What Bird is That?

Tuesday 5 July 9:00 - 10:30am Learn to identify birds at the Botanic Gardens and be part of a survey. Take home your own Bird ID brochure and booklet.

Sarah Jane with some keen bird watchers! Photo: F Wenker

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Mothers’ Day Flowers Laura Ryan

Workshopping at Gene‘s premises L to R Sue, Beverley, Gene ,Claudia

On Mothers‘ day weekend, ‗Flowers by Friends‘ held a display and sale of Australian native floral designs at the Friends‘ Centre. The weather was perfect and, while the beach may have drawn potential visitors away on the Saturday, the Gardens were abuzz on the Sunday. Numerous family picnic goers, local residents, tourists and others enjoyed a day out, many visiting ‗Coffee @ the Gardens‘ and the Friends‘ Centre.

The floral display was described by those who stopped to look or buy as ‗stunning‘. The main flora used were starry, white Actinotus helianthi (Flannel Flowers), Anigozanthos varieties (Kangaroo Paws) in red, yellow and orange, Banksias – Banksia robur, Banksia plagiocarpa (Hinchinbrook Banksia) and the hybrid of Banksia ericifolia and Banksia spinulosa (‗Giant Candles‘). These were complemented by a range of other flora including Caustis blakei (Koala Fern), Sticherus flabellatus (Umbrella Fern), Asplenium australasicum (Bird‘s Nest Fern), Callitris columellaris (Coastal or Bribie Island Pine) and the vibrant purple berries of Callicarpa pedunculata (Velvet Leaf). This demonstration of the beauty of native flora proved to be a great talking point, surprising many visitors who were unfamiliar with the plants used. It provided an entry point to further discussion about growing Australian plants, the Botanic Gardens and the Friends and confirmed the relevance of the educational role that floral design can provide. The Open Day on 29th May provided a similar opportunity. Flora is not picked from the Gardens, but is sourced from a range of growers commercial and private – ensuring our products are unique and distinctive. Prices are most competitive and profits from ‗Flowers by Friends‘ support the GCRBG. Orders are welcome and can be tailored to your needs. Email: flowersbyfriends@friendsgcrbg.org.au Phone: 0429 412968 or 0407 580899

FREE GUIDED WALKS

General Information

of the Gardens

Meet one of our trained volunteer Garden Guides at the Sensory Garden shelter at 10.00 am on the 1st Sunday or the 3rd Wednesday of each month

Postal Address: PO Box 5653 GCMC QLD 9726 Location: 230 Ashmore Road Benowa 4217 Secretary:

5th and 15th June

secretary@friendsgcrbg.org.au mobile: 0449 561 674

3rd and 20th July 7th and 17th August

Treasurer:

treasurer@friendsgcrbg.org.au

4th and 21st September

Membership:

membership@friendsgcrbg.org.au

2nd and 19th October

Facebook :

www.facebook.com/friendsgcrbg

Visit our Website:

www.friendsgcrbg.org.au

SPECIALITY WALKS

of the Gardens

Bookings necessary. Cost dependant on the walk chosen and degree of difficulty.

General Information:info@friendsgcrbg.org.au

** SPECIAL NOTICE: A member of the public has reported the loss of an adult female‘s bicycle on the 1st June in these Botanic Gardens. It is an expensive bike and the owner is very upset. Please contact info@friendsGCRBG.org.au if you have information. Thank you. Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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The Australian Native Bee Book

BOOK REVIEW

Keeping stingless bee hives for pets, pollination and sugarbag honey by Tim Heard Sugarbag Bees, West end, 2016 Review by Beverley Windsor Author, research scientist and entomologist, Dr Tim Heard, is a passionate promoter of Australia‘s native stingless bees. Now retired from CSIRO, he has devoted his time to promoting sustainable propagation of new hives and honey extraction. He obtained his first stingless bee hive in 1985, and now keeps more than 300 hives of three species around south-east Queensland. He has personally propagated more than 2,000 new colonies. Tim has developed new hive designs for stingless bees that allow easy and sustainable propagation of new hives and extraction of honey. In this, his first book, Tim has written a complete guide to keeping Australian native stingless bees. Based on his successful workshops, this book starts with the general biology of bees and finishes with practical details on keeping them. Whether you keep a hive or two in your suburban garden, or want to use multiple hives on a commercial farm, The Australian Native Bee Book provides guidance and information to assist at every stage. illustrated with over 500 photographs, drawings and charts.

Topics include: 

Bee biology, behaviour, nesting, social life and foraging



How to build your own native bee hive



How to transfer a bee colony to a hive box and propagate hives



All about sugarbag honey, including how to extract it from hives



Managing your hive



Identifying and dealing with pests



Using stingless bees for pollination — from small gardens to commercial crops



A complete list of Australia‘s stingless bee species, how to identify them, their characteristics, where they occur, and recommended hives



A readable summary of the latest research on native bees

Examples of the illustration and clear text in Tim Heard 'guide to native bees‘ Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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Volunteer Garden Guides

at the

Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens

May has been a busy month with group guided walks, the normal free guided walks and continued training for our new guides. Laura took a very appreciative group from the Miami Probus Club on a guided walk mid May before they enjoyed a delightful lunch by Coffee at the Gardens of calzones and a salad of winter greens. Earlier in the month, the Gardening Club from U3A were treated to a guided walk through The Story of our Country Garden and I won‘t enlarge on this visit by the Club as Molly McCombe‘s email copied below says it all: “It was, absolutely, a delight and the evocation of atmosphere in a small space created by Kate’s sensitive design and choice of plants to portray this botanical and geographically diverse region was remarkable.

Miami Probus Club members enjoying lunch on the verandah.

“May our thanks be extended to Kate whom we found to be a warm and giving guide and it was a bonus for us that she had been both Designer and Horticultural Consultant on the project. “Visiting your Friends’ Centre is a delight and doubtless we will want to come again.” We have four walks planned for the BGANZ Open Day with Kate‘s 11am including ‗The Story of Our Country Garden‘ and ‗rare and threatened species in the gardens‘. Noreen will then take a guided walk at noon titled ‗Bush Foods and Indigenous Plant Uses‘. Another guided walk by Kate at 1pm will visit and explain the ‗landmark trees of the GCRBG‘. The final walk is by Shelly at 2pm and will be through ‗The Mangroves to Mountains Transect‘. Thanks to our ‗guides in training‘ Ailsa and Pat for their help. Contact: Friends on 0449 561 674 or send an email to info@friendsgcrbg.org.au Shelly Kelly Garden Guides Coordinator

CLIMATE WATCH with Belinda Fairhurst & Neil Morley ClimateWatch is a national scientific program that collects and records species‘ behaviour throughout the year to better understand how climate is affecting our wildlife. The behavioural information that participants record contributes to the Atlas of Living Australia and helps policy-makers at the state and federal level to make informed decisions about the climate and adaptation responses of our natural environment. Currently there are seven (7) plant and thirteen (13) bird species that have been chosen by the GCRBG Friends and members of the public to monitor. Participants record seasonal behaviour (e.g. first flower) on the recording sheets that are then entered on to the ClimateWatch database. Guides of the species being monitored and recording sheets with all the relevant information are available at the Friends/Information Centre and can also be downloaded at the ClimateWatch web site www.climatewatch.org.au/ Guided walks are now being conducted of the GCRBG ClimateWatch trail at 10.00am on every 1st & 3rd Friday every month with Belinda and with Neil birds) every Tuesday also at 10.00am.  for further information contact Belinda or Neil on 0449 561 674  secretary@friendsgcrbg.com.au

A place to escape, learn and be inspired Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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CALENDAR 2016

Compiled by Rana Baguley Education coordinator Please mark these important dates in your 2016 calendar * Children only : Bookings may be needed

June:

13th, 20th, 27th

Art Classes with Megan Skehan

July:

1st 5th 8th 11th, 18th 25th

Kids in Conservation: Grow that Plant 9:00 - 11:00am Kids in Conservation; What Bird is That? 9:00 - 10:00am Botanica Quest: Dare to Discover 9:00 - 11:00am Adult Art Classes 10:00 - 1:00pm

August:

8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th 13th

Adult Art Classes 10:00 - 1:00pm Discovery in the Gardens

September:

12th, 19th, 26th 18th 23rd 27th 30th

Art Classes 10:00 - 1:00pm Threatened Species Planting Day 9:00 - 11:00am (provisional date) Kids in Conservation: Grow that Plant 9:00 - 11:00am Kids in Conservation; What Bird id That? 9:00 - 10:00am Botanica NaturePlay Missions 9:00 - 11:00am

October: 11th 17th, 24th

Arbor Day Adult Art Classes 10:00 - 1:00pm

November:

14th, 21st, 28th 27th

Adult Art Classes 10:00 - 1:00pm Friends AGM

December: th

Botanica Christmas Arts and Crafts

Spring Newsletter Deadline August 26 2016

Watercolour Classes with Megan Skehan â&#x20AC;&#x2014;I am thrilled to be collaborating with the Friends and Gold Coast City Council to supply artwork for the new signage and to be conducting Watercolour classes from the Friends Centre. As a long time resident of the Gold Coast I very much appreciate having our own botanic gardens. As a child we would often go to Brisbane, to the city gardens and Mt Coo-tha, to have this valuable resource so close is amazing. I have always been drawn to botanical art and really enjoy painting nature. As a 21 year old backpacker, fresh from Art College, I filled a visual diary with flower drawings, which I look at more than the photos I took during the same trip. There is something about sitting and sketching that creates a more lasting memory. Watercolour is a lovely medium to use for this purpose and our Botanic Gardens are rich with subject matterâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;. Classes are being held at the Friends Centre 230 Ashmore Road, Benowa Mondays from 10.00am Classes are of 3 hours duration at a cost of $30.00. Contact Friends: Megan :

info@friendsgcrbg.org.au

mob: 0449 561 674

www.friendsgcrbg.org.au

megskehan@hotmail.com - or phone 0433773300

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Friends Activites THERE are SO many activities to be involved in by just becoming a member and enjoying one or more: Communications The positive comments on the professional material produced by this team are endless. Do you have an interest in Communications? Craft

Craft Workshops are held once a month to develop and share ideas for merchandise sales. This group has had a number of members moving away and would welcome an increase in numbers. New meeting time is to be the first Friday of each month from 10.00am. Would you like to join Nancy and other keen crafters?

Education

School groups are often to be seen in the gardens working on projects. The sight warms your heart.

Do you have an interest in education?

Flowers by Friends The floral arrangements of flowers and foliage created by this group showcase the amazing plants in Southeast Queensland and some of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s best. Friends Centre The Centre is open daily from 10:00am to 2:00pm to assist Visitors with information on the Gardens. It is staffed by Volunteers with full training provided. If you have a day a month you can spare and enjoy giving information to people from all over.. Join us Gardening

Every Wednesday bright and early at 6:30am summer and 7.30am winter this group of dedicated Volunteers work in the Gardens to assist in maintaining Garden beds for your pleasure. Keep fit and meet other dedicated workers.

Guiding

The Guided tours of the Gardens are led by Volunteer Guides. Would you like to become one?

Herbarium

Volunteers meet each Tuesday and Saturday at 9:00am Does this interest you?

Nursery

This dedicated group of Volunteers meet every Friday at 7.00 am.

Art Classes

Megan Skehan conducts watercolour art classes every Monday from 10.00am. There is a $30.00 fee for the three hour session which includes needed materials.

Contacts: David secretary@friendsgcrbg.org,au Website http://www.friendsgcrbg.org.au/

Mary info@friendsgcrbg.org.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/friendsgcrbg

Come along to the Gardens to the Friends Centre to say Hi and have a relaxing drink at coffeeatthegardens@gmail.com on the verandah.

HERBARIUM Field Study May 24 2016 Collingwood Court Parklands, Arundel

Herbaria exist to record and preserve the natural regional flora. If you are interested in the scientific study of plants you may be interested in this activity. Meet on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9.00am.

The main purpose of the visit was to record native species with GPS information for the Council database. Chores were shared: Di leading and listing weeds observed; Peter: GPS; Beverley recording GPS; Kris in charge of M to M and searching for orchids; Laura photographing. The part of the reserve we visited consisted of dry sclerophyll forest sloping down to a broad melaleuca swamp. The undergrowth and litter layer were dry and would carry a fairly hot fire under the present dry conditions. Seepage at the base of the slope fed a small creek with melaleucas, Melicope elleryana, Glochidion ferdinandi, Lophostemon suaveolens. Trees of note on the slope: Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt), Eucalyptus tindaliae, Corymbia gummifera. Interesting shrub and ground layer with Acacia melanoxylon, Notelaea ovata, Pultenaea villosa, Goodenia rotundifolia, Capillipedium spicigerum. Group study: Goodenia rotundifolia Photo: Laura Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Inc Growing Matters Winter 2016 Volume 18 Issue 2

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Dick’s Challenge #4 1

18 19 20

22 23

25 26

27 29

17. ...... rust, a threat to our flora 19. .... ...... wire grass, one of the region‘s beautiful grasses 22. ....... Bird, rainforest‘s resident named for the shape of a musical instrument 25. Fluid distributed through a plant 27. Hovea linearis (initials)

Across 1. Large owl of the wetter parts 3. Wonga vine 7. Town just north of Cunningham‘s Gap 9. A tide of the first and third quarters of the moon 10. Small freshwater crayfish 12. Ivy leaf violet of our gardens 13. Brachychiton bidwillii …………. Kurrajong 15. Large New Zealand parrot 18. Means of propagation from existing plant 20. Shrub of the gardens noted for its hard woody fruit 21. Southern cross 23. A graft made in a slit cut in the bark of stock 24. Some of our terrestrial orchids 26. Corymbia tessellaris often called Moreton Bay … 28. A large Corymbia, grey chunky bark common on the Gold Coast – pink …wood 29. A climbing or twining plant Down 1.Prostrate matted plant in the Friends‘ Garden blue/ purple flowers 2.That part of a flower that encloses the seeds 3.An edible legume seed 4.Very small 5.A persistent small weed of the moister parts of the gardens 6.A plant completing its Life Cycle in one year 8.An inflorescence where all pedicles arise from one point on top of the peduncle 11. An epiphytic fern, pendulous fronds forming into strap -like leaves 14. A glossy-leaved shady tree, a good street planter on the Gold Coast 16. The pointy leaved ‗chain fruit‘

The ROSE GARDEN Text and Images by Sally-Anne Simankowicz

Solution Back page

Joan (82 year old Guru of roses), myself and Council‘s enthusiastic self-confessed rose lover David Perkins maintain the Rose Garden every Wednesday morning. My primary role is to weed and sweep while the other two prune and drool over the blossoms! We‘re particularly proud of it at the moment with a fabulous show of flowers for Open Day on May 29. After much research Council recently bought $700.00 worth of new roses from Brindabella Rose Farm in Toowoomba. This farm specialises in breeding roses for the hot humid conditions in S-E Qld making the roses as Black Spot resistant as possible. We planted six mid-standards with colours and types of blooms to complement what we already had, two (2) Brindabella Prides that are especially black spot resistant with deep magenta flowers and my favourite – TIGERS - this range are, like many modern roses, without scent, bred for the magnificent variegation of colours in the blooms with each flower having its own variation of colours on the same bush. The three (3) we have are Brindabella Tiger, Raspberry Tiger and French Tiger. Already they are standouts amongst the single colour roses. Every Wednesday early morning walkers stop to talk and admire our Garden as happened on Open Day also. Come and join us and help care for the roses! We’d love to have your company.

Brindabella French Tiger

Brindabella Raspberry Tiger

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CRAFT with Nancy McWatters The Mother‘s Day craft stall at St Kevin‘s School was very successful. A big thank you to the Principal and P&F at St Kevin‘s for their hospitality and also to the Friends‘ members who helped and donated items. The colourful potted plants from the nursery were very popular with the children as well as the beanies and egg cups with knitted hats made by the craft group. The group‘s monthly meeting/workshop is now on the first Friday of the month at the Friends Centre. At the meetings I usually bring along some materials for a demonstration of something new and those interested will take up the challenge to create a different item to be out on sale in the Friends Centre or at an event in the Gardens or at an outside location. This is a fun activity group with scope for the more creative to provide a different way to make some much needed funds to help develop the gardens. More members and ideas are urgently needed in our craft group. If you enjoy being involved with craft, knitting

or crocheting and being with like-minded people then ring: 0449 561 674 or email info@friendsgcrbg.org.au.

Shelly, Claudia and Nancy attending St Kevin‘s Mother‘s Day stall

The Friends archives constitute a collection of materials in all forms to preserve a record of our Association and its vital contribution to the City of Gold Coast. Our archivist, Helena Kelso, and several Friends members also belong to the Garden History Society and understand the importance of well documented and stored garden records. Helena asks if all members could contribute any news clippings, photos (digital or otherwise), video clips, pod casts or any other material that should be archived. This material is being kept safely in anticipation of a permanent home at the Biodiversity Centre in years to come and is also supplied to the John Oxley Libraries historical records.