ADVERTORIAL: Explore Hunter Region Botanic Gardens

THE Hunter Region Botanic Gardens cover more than 125 hectares, much of which has been preserved as natural bushland.

The Gardens are managed, maintained and developed by a non-profit company of dedicated volunteers.

Visitors are welcomed with a Visitor Centre, cafe, gift shop and reference library. Devonshire teas and light lunches are available daily, while visitors can also enjoy a picnic among the Gardens.

Regular walks and excursions are held, along with a program of special events throughout the year.

The Gardens continue to grow, with new displays developed for recreational, educational and scientific purposes. Australian and introduced plant species are showcased in themed areas featuring acacias, banksias, myrtaceae, grevilleas, ferns, bush-tucker plants, succulents and palms.

Rare and endangered Australian species are also cultivated.

The orchid houses are a popular attraction, while many of the plants on display are suitable for home gardens and provide inspiration for keen gardeners.

Visitors can access expert advice on plant selection, planting and propagation, while a wide range of plants and herbs are available to purchase at low prices from the on-site plant stall.

Easy-walking trails wind through the natural bushland, providing an opportunity to explore mature blackbutt, angophora and swamp mahogany forests, as well as an understorey featuring more than 150 native plant species.

The bushland provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, including goannas, wallabies, lizards, brushtail and ringtail possums, sugar gliders, bats and numerous bird species.

The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens are located at 2100 Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, NSW 2324.

For further information, contact the Gardens on 02 4987 1140 or email admin@huntergardens.org.au.

The Gardens are open seven days a week from 9am to 4pm.