Hunter Region Botanic Gardens Ltd

The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens was opened in 1985 on a 133.3 hectare bushland site in Heatherbrae and through the support of its volunteers (now numbering over 200) has grown to maintain a living collection of more than 3,000 plants and a herbarium collection of over 12,000 specimens. Theme gardens cover 30 hectares of the site and include ornamental, ecological, taxonomic and evolutionary, geographic and conservation collections. The remainder of the site is maintained as a Biobanking zone for local flora. The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is a centre for environmental and conservation studies, education and knowledge sharing on botanical matters for the Hunter Region. Our Mission To grow, study, conserve and promote plants, particularly the plants of the Hunter Region. Our vision To maintain and develop a Botanic Garden in the Hunter Region for the appreciation, study and enjoyment of horticulture and related fields by the growing of Australian native and other plants. Visitor Attendance The Botanic Gardens attracts between 25,000 and 35,000 visitors each year. Many of our visitors are from outside of the Hunter region and include overseas travellers. Recent Awards + Named in top 10 of Australia's Regional Botanic Gardens by Australian Geographic + Port Stephens Australia Day Award Winners 2019 + Port Stephens Examiner Business Award for Best Tourist Attraction 2018 + Hunter Region Volunteer Organisation of the Year 2022 The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is distinct and unique in that it operates as an independent nonprofit organisation, relying on the support of local businesses and donations from the community. The Gardens offers visitors a peaceful and beautiful garden in a 125 hectare bushland setting, a cafe, giftshop, gallery, nursery sales, guided tours and facilities for weddings conferences and functions.