Of Friends and Gardens published

Showing how a sand mine in unloved and ignored bushland became one of Melbourne’s most beautiful landscapes, Of Friends & Gardens is a remarkable book. It shares stories about the development of the Friends of Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne and the Gardens themselves.

Of Friends and Gardens: A History of the Cranbourne Friends commemorates the 30th Anniversary of a determined group of nature lovers who helped transform a spent sand mine into the award-winning Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne. The Friends wanted to celebrate and preserve Australia’s native flora and were right behind the plan to create a landscaped garden featuring incredible and beautiful Australian plants.

Written by Friend and author Carolyn Landon, the book provides a comprehensive history of the Friends as they grew together with Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne.

The beautifully illustrated coffee table book features fascinating stories about the site’s history, those who fought to preserve it and the battles they encountered along the way, including preventing a freeway being built through the Gardens.

“The Friends have been integral to the establishment and development of the Gardens,” says Chris Russell, Executive Director, Cranbourne Gardens. “These stories illustrate the passion, generosity, and sheer determination of the Friends and we are incredibly grateful for their contribution over three decades.”

Of Friends and Gardens: A History of the Cranbourne Friends of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (Hardie Grant Books, 2021) is available at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria shops and other stockists.