Association of Friends of Botanic Gardens Inc.

Campsis radicans Trumpet Flower
Beverley Graham 1994

Association of Friends of Botanic Gardens Inc.
History

Early in 1991 the Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne, brought together
representatives of botanic gardens throughout Victoria, so that they could discuss
matters of common interest. The Melbourne Friends arranged a Seminar in Melbourne in
May of that year. Some who attended were Friends, some represented local authorities.

The Seminar was so successful that another was held in Melbourne a year later.
There was strong support for the establishment of an umbrella organisation, and this
led to the incorporation of the association on the 20th January 1993. Philip Clingin
of Ballarat was the first President and, with an enthusiastic group in that City, arranged
a third Seminar there in April 1993.

Nearly 60 people attended, some from Canberra and New South Wales. The name was
originally Association of Friends of Botanic Gardens (Victoria) Inc. This was changed
to reflect the growing interest from outside Victoria, and the word Victoria was deleted
in 2001.

The Association expanded further in 2008 when a New Zealand Garden became a member.

The Association produces a publication of News from gardens around Australia twice a year, in May and November; Campsis for the benefit of members.