Friends of The Australian National Botanic Gardens Inc

Overview

The Friends of The Australian National Botanic Gardens Inc is a non-profit community organisation established in 1990 to support the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG). The ANBG is renowned for housing the world's largest collection of Australian native plants. The Friends group is incorporated under the ACT Associations Incorporations Act 1991 and plays a vital role in enhancing public appreciation, conservation, and enjoyment of these unique botanical resources.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Friends is to support the ANBG in achieving its objectives, which include inspiring, informing, and connecting people to Australia's unique flora. The group accomplishes this through various activities, including:

• Volunteer Support: Members provide in-kind assistance, such as guiding tours.
• Fundraising Events: Activities include native plant sales, photographic and botanical art exhibitions, and weekly lunchtime talks.
• Membership and Community Engagement: With around 2,100 members, the organization engages the community through an extensive program of talks, visits, and social events.

Public Fund

In 2004, the Friends established a Public Fund within the Register of Environmental Organisations (REO), which enables donations to be tax-deductible. This fund supports specific objectives related to the conservation and public appreciation of the ANBG.

Role in Botanic Gardens

The Friends are part of a broader network of botanic gardens supporters in Australia. Their efforts contribute significantly to the conservation and research conducted at the ANBG, which serves as a genetic "safe deposit box" for many plant species threatened in their natural habitats. The gardens, along with their associated Herbarium, are crucial resources for plant research and conservation.

Impact

By supporting the ANBG, the Friends contribute to increasing knowledge, appreciation, and enjoyment of Australia's unique plant heritage and landscapes. Their activities help promote the cultural, scientific, and educational functions of the gardens, making them an invaluable asset for both local and national communities.