(Community Recognition Statement, 17 October 2019, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

I visited the Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens plant nursery recently and saw the impact of their Community Building Partnership grant in upgrading the nursery equipment. The expert knowledge, passion for plants and commitment to sharing from the volunteer ‘Growing Friends’ group is impressive and inspiring. My husband and I intend to go back to the nursery to buy plants for our balcony garden.

For over 35 years, the Foundation and Friends has been holding events, tours, exhibitions, classes and courses to educate and enthuse the wider community. These activities also raise funds to support Botanic Gardens research and education, helping to protect our unique plants, conserve species at risk, prevent plant disease and encourage the great pleasure to be had in gardens and plants. These are vital efforts in the busy heart of built-up Sydney, especially when we face climate crisis.

On behalf of the Sydney Electorate I would like to recognise the inspiring work of the Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens and thank volunteers for their valuable contribution to our community and our environment.