The Ballarat Botanical Gardens including the North Gardens Reserve, South Gardens Reserve and Lake Foreshore Reserve between the historic bluestone gate pillars requires $1million to implement its masterplan and replace its tired assets. Whilst much of the funding necessary will be provided by Council, Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and government grants, there are some major elements that we seek public fundraising for:

Fernery Refurbishment
The current fernery is the fourth such structure, which will require structural modification and re-cladding within the next five years. Replacement of the timber purlins and slats with more durable, long lasting materials and inclusion of some architectural elements that acknowledge the majesty and form of the previous structures are proposed. We seek donations of cash, design services and materials for this important landmark project.

Maze and Playground
The creation of a maze, playground and picnic facilities north of the Fernery will provide a focus for visitors to engage families with children and school groups in play experiences that relate to the historical, cultural and environmental qualities of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.

Dedication Seats
A number of slatted iron seats have been removed due to corrosion and damage making them unsafe. These seats can be refurbished with replaced frames, sandblasted surfaces and reinstalled with dedication plaques. These seats are the preferred style for the Lake Foreshore reserve and Wendouree Parade frontage of the Gardens.

The Ballarat Botanical Gardens Community Fund was granted approval under section 78(1) (a) (xxvii) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 as amended on the basis that the funds are to be used for the purpose of "improving or maintaining" the Botanic Gardens.

Accordingly all donations of $2 and more are tax deductible.

The Ballarat Botanical Gardens Community Fund is administered by the Ballarat City Council through its Lake Wendouree and Botanical Gardens Special Committee.

For further information contact:
The Manager
Lake Wendouree and Botanical Gardens
PO Box 655 Ballarat Victoria 3353
Phone:	5320 7444
Fax:	5334 3133
Email :	rccadmin@ballarat.vic.gov.au