Established in 1860, the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens is one of Victoria’s oldest regional botanical gardens. Covering some 24 hectares, the gardens and plant specialisation reflect Castlemaine’s goldrush prosperity and the global curiosity of botanists throughout the 19th century.
In 2000, Mount Alexander adopted the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens Masterplan 2000. This document contains a prioritised list of works, which was developed to allow works to be undertaken as funding became available.
Director Environment and Infrastructure, Nick Haslinghouse, indicated that the list has been reviewed recently to see what works could attract external funding.
“Early this year, a number of meetings were held with the Friends of the Botanical Gardens Landcare group to ascertain the status of proposed works,” Nick Haslinghouse said. “Meetings have also been held with the Federal Government’s Regional Partnerships Program, Rural Development Victoria and Heritage Victoria in regards to funding.”
While the total cost of the refurbishment is expected to be approximately $1 million, Nick Haslingouse anticipates that after State and Federal grants, Council’s contribution will be around $400,000.
“The entire project will be spread over a three year period,” he said. “Much of the first year would be involved in project development and design, including obtaining the necessary planning, heritage and aboriginal heritage approvals.”
Proposed work includes upgrades to the toilet block as well as adding disabled access; restoration of the surrounds of Lake Joanna; relocation of the internal carpark to the perimeter of the gardens; and restoration of the former tea rooms. Bridges and fountains will also undergo restoration.
Nick Haslinghouse said by refurbishing and enhancing the gardens, Council hopes to expand the use of the gardens.
“The tea rooms are currently used for the Castlemaine Highlands Pipe Band practice, although we hope the renovations will allow for more functionality and further uses,” he said.
