COMMUNITY FUND

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The Ballarat Botanical Gardens Community Fund was granted tax deductibility status under the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 on the basis that the funds are to be used for the purpose of 'improving or maintaining' the Botanical Gardens. All donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

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

Many of the landmark features of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens have been provided through generous public donations: the Statuary, Conservatory, Robert Clark Centre, Prime Ministers Avenue and Morey Gates to name a few.

The Ballarat Botanical Gardens including the North Gardens Reserve, South Gardens Reserve and Lake Foreshore Reserve between the historic bluestone gate pillars requires $1 million to implement its Master Plan and repace its tired assets. Whilst much of the funding necessary will be provided by Council, the 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 in the Gardens and will require structural modification and re-cladding within the next five years. Repacement 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 & 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 new frames and sandblasted surfaces, and be reinstalled with dedication plaques. These seats are the preferred style for the Lake Foreshore Reserve and Wendouree Parade frontage of the Gardens.