Garden lovers everywhere can now enjoy the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and Buninyong Botanic Gardens on demand.

Two new Garden Explorer websites allow people to explore both gardens all year round from the comfort of home.

Located at ballarat.gardenexplorer.org and buninyong.gardenexplorer.org, the websites are designed to enrich the experience for visitors – whether visiting physically or virtually – and enhance their knowledge.

They include detailed information on individual plants, trees and statues as well as the different precincts and attractions.

They feature self-guided themed tours and interactive maps and provide unlimited access to collections that might only be on display for a short time at the Robert Clark Conservatory.

City of Ballarat gardens collections officer Donna Thomas says there is a wealth of information about the many treasures the gardens hold.

“The gardens have lots of stories to tell. Whether you want to learn more about the history or heritage-listed trees, view the current displays, explore the different precincts and plants you might find in them, or even check on a favourite tree, there’s something for everyone.”

Donna said the interactive maps were great tools for people planning a visit.

“You can find information on everything from the amenities and BBQs to the location of the fishing jetty. You can also learn more about the gardens before you come so you have a greater understanding when you’re here.”

Donna says the websites are essentially the plant collection database with a public interface.

“It’s exciting that we can now share all that amazing information with the public.”

Donna encourages people to stay updated on what’s happening and changes in the gardens.

“We’re constantly adding new plant collections and attractions and the tours change seasonally.

“There’s always something new to discover.”

Start exploring now at ballarat.gardenexplorer.org and buninyong.gardenexplorer.org

This story was published in the winter 2021 edition of ourballarat