Friends of the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton

Mission

The Friends of the Australian Botanic Gardens’ mission is to assist in the development of the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton by encouraging community involvement and ownership of this unique setting and in providing a safe and peaceful place for learning, relaxation, exercise and a love of our natural environment.

Purpose

To develop a new generational botanical experience that is accessible to both the Shepparton community and visitors. This damaged floodplain will showcase Australian native plants as well as incorporating public art.

Volunteer Purpose

‘Explore, Enjoy, Anytime’ is the theme of the Gardens and we invite you to be a part of this wonderful experience. Be a part of a group that is closely involved with the development of a major Goulburn Valley conservation landmark that will be a resource for the future. Along the way, have fun and enjoy some physical exercise.

Volunteer Opportunities

Sunday Working Bees

  • Don’t be deterred by the name, but our ‘working bees’ are fun social mornings for planting, weeding and maintaining this beautiful space. Held fortnightly, dates are available from our Facebook page and website.
  • facebook.com/FriendsABGS/
  • fabgs.org.au

Monthly Propagation & Plant Sales

Propagation sessions are currently held on the 4th Wednesday of the month. Come along and enjoy the company of others while learning to grow from seed or cuttings from plants growing in the Gardens. You don’t need to have any experience and it’s a great opportunity to learn a new skill. Some volunteers have lots of expertise in this area and are happy to share their knowledge so all can participate.

The plants that we propagate are either used as replacement plants in the Gardens or sold as part of our fundraising. It’s a great way to contribute to the Gardens.

All equipment is supplied. There’s coffee and cake afterwards as we sit down, chat and share ideas and tips on gardening. Please bring your own mug.

Our propagation area is located near the Garden’s entrance. In the warmer months the sessions start at 9am and in the cooler months we start at 10am.

Members now get 20% discount off plant purchases on sale days.

Weed Warriors

Weed Warriors is an easy morning and all about enjoying the bush. You don’t need any special skills. We discuss the ‘why, what & how’ before we set off. Plus, we have jobs for all abilities. While we work, there will be plenty of discussion on weeds, native plants and any discovery we make. There is no time limit, stay as long as you like. We just ask you to be Sunsmart, wear long trousers, sturdy footwear, gloves and bring water to stay hydrated. Tuesdays at 8.30am, meet at the entrance.

Adopt-a-patch

Not able to make Sundays or Tuesdays but would love to help in the Gardens? Why not adopt a patch and help at a time that suits you?

Committee member

Not into gardening, then consider a role on our Committee.  Our Committee meets on the 1st Wednesday of the month and new members are most welcome to join.

Membership

The Friends is not just about hard work. Being a member will give you the chance to take part in fun social outings with like-minded people, participate in workshops and activities, as well as venturing to other Botanic Gardens on excursions. A Friends membership is a positive way you can support the growth of the Gardens. Our quarterly newsletter will keep you informed about what is happening at the Gardens. If you enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, our working bees or propagation days may appeal to you. Members now get 20% discount off plant purchases on sale days.

Contact

If you need more information on becoming involved with the Friends of the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton: