Festival of the eucalyptus tree

AUSTRALIA’S iconic plant – the eucalypt – will take centre stage at the Australian Garden at the Cranbourne Royal Botanic Garden over the Easter and Anzac Day long weekend.
The garden will host the Eucalypt Festival, from 23 to 25 April, which will include walks, talks, workshops and activities for the kids.
Each day of the festival will have a different theme. Easter Saturday is tagged as Gardeners’ Day, Easter Sunday as Family Day and Anzac Day will concentrate on the bushland.
Themed activities will take place on specific days, while entertainment including face painting, live music by the Shenanigans and performances from trained circus artist Sam Starr will take place each day.
On Gardeners’ Day, participants will have the chance to join John Arnott, horticulture manager, for a sneak preview of stage two of the Australian Garden, which is due to open in early 2012. Mr Arnott will also take visitors through the nursery and explain the role it plays in conservation and horticultural work during a later tour on the day.
There is also the chance to join author Leon Costermans for an interpretative tour through the Eucalypt Walk.On Family Day, families will be able to join the free Easter bandicoot hunt at 9.30am, as well as enjoy the native wildlife display.
On Bushland Day, people will be able to learn more about the eucalypt on the ‘Story of the Gums’ tour. Visitors can investigate the traditional uses, cultural significance and scientific importance of eucalypts. The tour will finish with some Australian damper, eucalyptus honey and a cup of traditional billy tea. There are a number of other tour and activities that will run throughout the festival.
Tours and workshops range from free to up to $20.
Bookings are required for all tours. For bookings and further information call 5990 2245 or visit www.australiangarden.com.au