Friends of the Australian National Botanic Gardens Number 97 April 2021 President Neville Page Vice President Linda Beveridge Secretary Lynden Ayliffe Treasurer Helen Elliot

General Committee Wendy Antoniak Dave Bassett David More Imperial Jezebel, harpalyce (female) upperside Alan Henderson Wanda Filsell Lesley King Public Officer Wendy Antoniak Exec.Director ANBG Dr Judy West Post: Friends of ANBG, GPO Box 1777, Canberra ACT 2601 In this Issue Telephone: (02) 6250 9548 (messages) Homework – John Wrigley’s photos 3 Website: www.friendsanbg.org.au Friends’ activities and contacts William Baxter – ‘so excellent a collector’ of the ‘curious and rare’ 6 Fronds Committee: Barbara Podger Cathy Robertson Discovering 9 Denis Warne Pam Rooney Redevelopment of the East Core Precinct 10 [email protected] Report from the Friends’ President 11 Membership Lesley Harland Pam Cooke Garden - update 12 [email protected] Friendly Chatter 14 — 16 Growing Friends Maurice Hermann Guides Lesley King Botanical Art Groups Botanic Art Groups Helen Hinton Photographic Group Rhonda Daniell Growing Friends Science Group TBA Social Events Tricia Morton Photographic Group Talks Convenor Liz Truswell Volunteer Guides For all these groups contact: [email protected] Plant Science Group Booked Walks: [email protected] Botanical Bookshop 17 Fronds welcomes your articles and photographs. Gardens Shorts 18 Fronds is published 3 times per year; the deadline for articles is mid-February for the April issue; mid- Friends Briefs 20 June for the August issue and mid-October for the December issue. Email or post material to the Fronds What’s on at the Gardens - April 2021 to August 2021 22 Committee at the above address or place in the Thursday Talks - April to August 2021 23 — 24 Friends letterbox, located inside the Gardens’ Visitor Centre, between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm, every day, Editorial messages: telephone (02) 6250 9548. Design and layout: Pam Rooney Cover: Imperial Jezebel (female) - underside. Photo by Dave Bassett Printing: Union Offset Printers Imperial Jezebels (Delias harpalyce) display a lovely, leisurely flight usually around the canopy ISSN 2207-6492 of but people on Suzi Bond's walk in February were lucky enough to see one attracted to Syzygium flowers, much closer to the ground. They breed on the mistletoes in eucalypts, and their caterpillars are gregarious.

2 April 2021 Fronds 97 Homework – John Wrigley’s photos Murray Fagg

n the last week of March 2020, working-from-home-arrangements were introduced by the Gardens as part of the Australian Government’s Ilockdown procedures for staff in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As an associate I was fortunate to be given permission to bring home a large 35mm slide scanner and its controlling computer to continue digitising my photos for the Australian Plant Image Index (APII), a task I had been working on at the Gardens for several years. In June 2020 I completed scanning and databasing my own botani-

cal slides, almost 40 years of photography. © Wrigley, J.W. a-39404 My next working-from-home task was to tackle the collection of 35mm slides M.Fagg taken by my colleague and friend John © Wrigley, with whom I started working John Wrigley in Coffs Harbour in 2009 in March 1971. John was Curator of photographed during the editing of the Wrigley & Fagg book: Eucalypts – a celebration. the then Canberra Botanic Gardens and I was the Education Display Officer. The native orchid, Rhinerrhiza divitiflora, After John’s death at Coffs Harbour on Gardens since 2014 and staff delivered photographed in John's private glasshouse them to my home. Some were in a case, behind the Curator's Cottage (now Seedbank, 17 July 2014, I helped his family sort ANBG) in 1969. out his botanical estate. His wife Marcia others were stored in an unusual way suggested I bring his photos to Canberra – in recycled Kodak boxes glued onto to be incorporated into APII and made sheets of wood. Each slide had a unique available online to the public. number linked to an Excel database as well as having information written on His 35mm slides had been in storage in the slide-mount. The number sequence the Photograph Collection office at the started in the 1960s. © Wrigley, J.W. a-40524 M.Fagg © Part of John's 35mm slide collection, in a 1960s commercial slide case (left) and his home-made John's photo of Karrabina biagiana showing storage system of Kodak boxes glued to wooden boards (right). the coloured young , growing in his garden at Coffs Harbour in 1990. He was interested in foliage, not just flowers.

Fronds 97 April 2021 3 Homework – John Wrigley’s photos (contd.)

John Wrigley AM was born in 1934 in 1962 he was editor of the State newslet- were included in his private col- Lindfield, a suburb of Sydney, walking ter Native Plants for NSW. lection, as were photos taken on family distance from Lane Cove National Park. holidays etc. In the early 1960s John was involved On walks here with his father John was with the establishment of the Ku-Ring- In December 1976, John and I signed introduced to Australian wildflowers. Gai Wildflower Garden at St Ives. He an agreement with William Collins His parents were keen gardeners, but first visited the developing Botanic Publishers to produce Australian Native did not use native plants, because, his Gardens in Canberra as a delegate of Plants (ANP), a book with six edi- father assured him, “these could not be the SGAP conference held in 1962. tions over the next 37 years. We got grown in the garden”. It was these various elements of his clearance from the then Public Service At Sydney University he majored passion for Australian plants that saw Board to undertake private publishing in organic chemistry, and his first him appointed as the Curator of the and maintain private photo collections jobs were with Shell and the food then Canberra Botanic Gardens in May for such purposes. company Unilever. After completing 1967, working to prepare for the official In 1977 we travelled extensively on our a cadetship with Unilever he was soon opening in 1970. annual leave, visiting gardens through- in a management position as ‘Edible John held the position of Curator until out south-eastern Australia in prepara- Fats Manager’ with a staff of 30 men 1981 when he moved to Coffs Harbour tion for the book. I concentrated on producing Stork margarine. where he spent the rest of his life. close-up flower photographs while John John’s hobby and recreation activity took notes of what was being grown, From 1967, all the photos John took at the time eventually shaped his life. and photos to help him write descrip- as part of his Gardens work and field He joined the Sydney branch of the tions of plants in cultivation. trips went into the nascent Gardens' newly established Society for Growing Photograph Collection, which became With John’s move to Coffs Harbour Australian Plants (SGAP) in 1959; one of my responsibilities when I took in 1981 our collaboration continued, he had been married to Marcia for on the educational role. But John had with later editions of ANP, as well as two years and they were establishing a built himself a small glasshouse in the major books on Australian in garden for their new home. The follow- backyard of the Curator’s Cottage (now 1989 and Myrtaceae in 1993. In each ing year he was elected to the SGAP the ANBG’s Bank) where he pur- of these cases we did a fieldtrip over Committee as ‘Scientific Officer’. By sued his hobby of growing native and several weeks to Western Australia with exotic orchids. Photos he took of these me taking photos, Rosemary Purdie © Wrigley, J.W. a-39864 Wrigley, J.W. a-40415 J.W. Wrigley, © John's photo of the fern Platyzoma A close-up photo of Banksia carlinoides, known as Dryandra carlinoides in 1983, on a WA field-trip microphyllum in NT in 1988. He didn't only for the Proteaceae book. Voucher: Purdie, R.W. 5079 photograph pretty plants of high ornamental value.

4 April 2021 Fronds 97 Homework – John Wrigley’s photos (contd.)

collecting voucher herbarium specimens was his generosity in giving talks to trips in 1983 and 1990. In loading these and John taking notes and supplemen- clubs and societies. He continued to images into APII over 500 photos were tary photos to assist him with writing take photos on a digital camera for use linked to their herbarium voucher speci- plant descriptions. as Powerpoint lecture images after 2006, mens, often updating the identification but these were not high-resolution in line with taxonomic changes over the John’s home, named Bongil Bongil, photos suitable for APII. last 30 years. at Korora Basin just outside Coffs Harbour, became a haven for both Over the course of 2020, I scanned and I would like to thank Marcia Wrigley exotic and native plants, many unusual databased a selection of about 2,800 and the Wrigley family for their generos- or rare, and for several years it was part of John’s photos and loaded them into ity in contributing John’s photos to the of the Open Garden Scheme giving the APII. They are now accessible via APII Australian Plant Image Index. This dona- public access on certain days. It was a on the internet. tion reinforces the strong connection great source of tropical plant photos. John had with the Australian National One unexpected result of the project Botanic Gardens over almost 60 years. John did a lot of botanical consultancy was that John had carefully recorded work and was largely responsible for on the slide-mounts Rosemary Purdie’s Thanks also to Murray Fagg & Cheryl Backhouse for sharing images from the the establishment of the North Coast collecting numbers for herbarium APIIs “Fifty Years Ago, from the Gardens' Regional Botanic Gardens developed in specimens from the Western Australian Image collection...” published in the Coffs Harbour in the early 1980s. This, December Fronds. too, provided a source for a wide range of native plant photos. John later became involved with the ©

cut-flower trade, especially plantation- Wrigley, J.W. a-40833 grown foliage of native , some rarely seen before in the florist industry. He sent these by plane to the Sydney markets and overseas to Europe. John and Marcia did extensive holiday trips, sometimes in a campervan, and he John's close-up photo of Eremaea violacea subsp. raphiophylla on the 1990 Myrtaceae field-trip to took many plant photos. Trips included WA. This taxon had not been named at the time. (photo is cropped). Voucher: Purdie, R.W. 3777 Tasmania in 1992, Western Australia in 1994 and 2003, and one when John led members of the International Dendrology Society from the Kimberley across northern Australia to the Daintree River in Queensland in 1999. John’s photos were accurately named, often by other experts, and he kept his up to date from the available floras and scientific journals, and later from web resources like the Australian Plant Census (APC). © John and Marcia moved from their hill- Wrigley, J.W. a-39899 side Bongil Bongil house with its exten- sive terrace gardens to a small block in Coffs Harbour in 2004, and he stopped taking 35mm photographs in 2006. One driving force for John’s plant photography, other than publications, John's habit photo of Melaleuca scabra on a WA field-trip in 1983. As a horticulturalist he was interested in the whole plant's appearance. Voucher: Purdie, R.W. 5195

Fronds 97 April 2021 5 William Baxter – ‘so excellent a collector’ of the ‘curious and rare’ Boronia Halstead rom mid-summer to autumn, London. This was a significant departure Baxter’s second trip to KGS was made visitors to the Banksia Garden from previous expeditions funded by the in the first half of 1824. After this trip, will be greeted by the bright Royal Kew Gardens as part of their colo- Baxter wrote to Robert Brown that: lemon-yellow torches of nial/scientific project. The tripcoincided I have been as far as Lucky Bay Banksia baxteri flower-heads, above with the peak of interest in the cultiva- F and even as far as the Sound …, distinctive rosettes of triangular lobed tion of Australian plants in Britain and but could not get into it owing to leaves. The name-sake for this spectacu- beyond between 1795 and 1835. a gale of wind coming when we lar plant is William Baxter. His remarka- On his first trip to the southern coast were between Mount gardener and ble skills as a collector in the early 1800s (1822/23), Baxter visited Kangaroo Bald head. I left the vessel at point in the new colony were recognised in Island and King George’s Sound (KGS). Malcolm [now in the Cape Arid Britain by William Hooker (Director of Robert Brown of the British Museum National Park] and walked along the the Glasgow Botanic Gardens), and by must have asked Baxter for specific coast to Thistles Cove [now in Cape Charles Fraser (Colonial Botanist at the specimens, having himself visited the Le Grand NP] with no one with me Sydney Botanic Garden). But thereby southern coast on his voyage with excepting a dog. hangs a tale. Matthew Flinders. However, Baxter was Picture Baxter walking at least 200 kms Baxter made one of the earliest privately disappointed to find few plants in flower through unknown rough virgin scrub, funded, commercially oriented plant- when he arrived at KGS, and was only alone with his dog, collecting plant mate- collecting trips to New Holland, arriv- able to spend four weeks there due to rial for propagation on the other side of ing at Port Jackson on the Royal George bad weather. Nevertheless, he did send the planet. Among the specimens he col- in November 1821. His sponsors were Brown specimens of Kingia australis and lected for Brown on this trip were nurserymen, Francis Henchman and some and dryandras. and , as well as . John Bain Mackay of Clapton Nursery in © Thiele K.R, 2013 (APII dig.53077) Pam Rooney

Banksia baxteri with distinctive rosettes of triangular lobed leaves, Banksia Garden, ANBG, Baxteria australis, Gull-Rock NP near Albany, February 2021 January 2013

6 April 2021 Fronds 97 William Baxter – ‘so excellent a collector’ of the ‘curious and rare’

At this point, juggling the competing I am engaged with a House [presum- far as Lucky Bay and also to visit the demands of his commercial nursery ably a commercial nursery] I am very mountains of the Land. sponsors in Britain and arrangements unwilling to injure.’ He left on this attempted third trip he had with others became precarious. Baxter was also ‘much mortified’ to on 4 April 1826. Having sent cases of Baxter understood the need to preserve learn that part of the collection supplied plant material to Henchman at the end the novelty value of his plants and to Fraser for Hooker had been given of 1825 and expecting his credit with control their distribution. He wrote to to the ‘Botanist’ of the French warship him to be sound, Baxter bought the Hooker from Sydney seeking an under- Thetis. cutter, the Brisbane, for the expedition. taking that ‘two specimens of unde- However, soon after departure the vessel scribed Banksia’s with a fruit attached to At the beginning of 1826, Baxter wrote was forced to return to port to repair each’ that Baxter had collected for Fraser to Robert Brown of his intention to damage. It set off again in May 1826. for supply to Hooker not be permit- travel to KGS once more and to remain In Tasmanian waters in the spring of ted to be grown in the [presumably there for 12 months, ‘for the purpose 1826, Baxter encountered another vessel Glasgow] Garden, saying: of examining the whole of the coast as apparently in distress and took on some of the crew (having already collected plants at Wilsons Promontory and islands in Bass Strait). However, in port in Launceston, Baxter’s vessel and its cargo were seized when proof of owner- ship of the Brisbane was not accepted by authorities. Henchman had returned Baxter’s Bill of Exchange, dishonoured. Baxter took passage back to Sydney but was arrested there and thrown into prison for ‘a paltry debt of Thirty pounds’ for his fare. With his engagement with Henchman over, Baxter sought to restore his finan- cial situation by again offering assis- tance to William Hooker. Meantime in January 1827, he had married Mary Jones, a convict, who received her Certificate of Freedom on the date of their marriage. She had been the benefi- ciary of the will of a wealthy baker and publican who had died just weeks before the wedding. In May 1827, Baxter purchased 25 acres of land at Petersham in Sydney with a promissory note to pay within two years. He intended the land ‘for a Botanical Garden’ where he could propagate plants for export to collectors in Britain. However, the mar- riage was short-lived, with each party posting notices at the end of 1828 that they would not honour the debts of the other. The land at Petersham was sold in August 1829 when Baxter was again

© Fagg M, 1987 (APII a.27982) © Fagg found to be insolvent while away col- Kunzea baxteri, this photo was taken for front cover of Wrigley & Fagg 'Australian Native Plants' lecting on his third and last, but most (ANP) 3rd edition, June 1987, ANBG, ACT successful, trip to KGS.

Fronds 97 April 2021 7 William Baxter – contd

Prior to his departure to KGS, Baxter I have sent you Eight new Dryandras had made an arrangement with Fraser and Six new Banksias[.] [T]here is (as described in Fraser’s note to the one of the latter with a like gran- Colonial Secretary) to dis and a globe flower the discovery of which you will perhaps think should ... make a general collection of in some way kept in remembrance and plants … the Colonial of me. Government retaining one half … and the remaining half to be trans- Brown obliged, giving the plant the mitted to his [Baxter’s] constituents name Banksia baxteri. Brown also named in England: the Government furnish- a Dryandra baxteri, but this plant has ing him with a regular ration and now been renamed Banksia biterex. the necessary equipments … After his return home, Baxter sold his The Colonial Secretary wrote to Fraser collection to a very wealthy horticultur- requiring him to ensure that the whole alist, Joseph Knight, for 1,500 Pounds. of Baxter’s collection was sent in the first The last we know of him is from a legal instance to the Botanic Gardens before notice about alleged debts he owed to a Pam Rooney being divided. brothel keeper. Baxter arrived in KGS on March 1829 While Baxter’s precarious financial to findthe settlers nearly starving. His situation led him into some dubious Banksia media, first collected by William Baxter rations were not enough to support circumstances, his great diligence and on his second trip to King George’s Sound . ‘long journeys and carrying such loads skills as a plant collector were recognised as I do’. Nevertheless, he went to the by Robert Brown and William Hooker. Stirling Ranges and Porongurups (a In WA alone, he is credited with col- The ANBG Library is now round-trip of about 160 kms) and col- lecting around 370 species (including 1 open, with an online borrowing lected plant material, including Banksia 44 banksias), 135 new to science. He system available solandri, B baxteri, B goodii, B baueri is commemorated in the Baxteria and B brownii. He started sending (related to Lomandra), and in species Last year a new library computer material back to Fraser soon after his names, including Acacia baxteri, system was installed which allows arrival. But Baxter himself did not get baxteri, baxteri, Eucalyptus you to keep track of your loans and back to Sydney until September 1829, baxteri, Chrysocephalum baxteri, Kunzea renew items online. In line with accompanying 18 packages of plants baxteri and Prostanthera baxteri. social distancing guidelines, physi- and seeds. Fraser applied for an Order cal visits to the ANBG Library will not be resuming at present. The new for the whole collection to be landed 1 Lesley & Mike Brooker: Flowers and at the Botanic Gardens. Baxter, how- gatherers of the Albany to Eucla coastline service has been introduced to enable ever, had made orders for two sacks of https://lesmikebrooker.com.au/flowers-and- borrowing safely and easily via the banksia cones to be delivered to no-one gatherers.php Visitor Centre. Normal reference and but himself. Fraser reported that Baxter Endersby, J. 2000, A garden enclosed: botanical research assistance from the Librarian abused the Boarding Officer sum- barter in Sydney, 1818-39, British Journal for will continue for Friends, via email or the History of Science, 33(03):313 - 334 moned to ensure delivery, threatening phone. to knock him down and attempting to Nelson, E. Charles 1990, ‘… and flowers for our amusement’: the early collecting and Details on how to use the new service throw some of the most valuable plants cultivation of Australian plants in Europe may be found on the Friends website overboard. Constables were called, and the problems encountered by today’s (www.friendsanbg.org.au) on the and Baxter left the vessel when they taxonomists’, in History of systematic botany in Australasia: proceedings of a symposium Home Page, under LATEST NEWS: approached. He returned a couple of …, P. S. Short (ed), 285-296. Library borrowing for the Friends – days later to fetch his share. Soon after, Nelson, E. Charles 2018, William Baxter (fl new system. he booked his passage back to Britain, 1792-1832), botanical collector, Australasian accompanying his packages of plants, Sytematic Botany Society Newsl 175 (June For assistance contact the library including 4 cases for Robert Brown. He 2018). via email at [email protected]. wrote to Brown during another stint in Maiden, J.H. 1909, William Baxter [in au or phone 6250 9480, 9.30am – prison prior to departure: Records of Western Australian botanists], 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Journal of the West Australian Natural History Society 6: 6-10. 8 April 2021 Fronds 97 Discovering Butterflies

On a summer morning in February, a group of Friends members experienced a delight- ful morning discovering butter- flies in the Gardens. The group’s leader was butterfly expert, Dr Suzi Bond, who guided us up the western side of the rainforest gully, across and through the rainforest, up the other side, and into the rock garden. Along the way she urged us to look out for butterflies Richard Arculus of any type which might be found Australian Painted Lady Bill Hall in the grasses and lower plants, (Vanessa kershawi) in the middle height trees and Spotted Brown (Heteronympha paradelpha) This is one of the most common and This is a special butterfly of the ANBG, regularly found flying shrubs, or in the higher canopy. widespread of our butterflies. They during February at the top of the rainforest gully where they love to feed on the flowering plants at We were lucky enough to find 14 breed on soft grasses such as Weeping Grass (Microlaena the ANBG, and breed on plants such species of butterfly, ranging from stipoides). Be careful to look for them amongst the far more as Everlasting Daisies (Helichrysum a tiny Barred Skipper to the larger plentiful Common Browns (Heteronympha merope). and Chrysocephalum) and Capeweed (Arctotheca calendula). and stunning Imperial Jezebel (front cover), as well as a fluttering flock of Macleay’s Swallowtails. We thank Suzi for sharing her enthusiasm and knowledge and providing the captions for the photos, the photographers among us for their photos, and the organisers of this event. (Suzi’s book, Field Guide to the Butterflies of the Australian Capital Territory, is available at the Botanical Bookshop.) Dave Bassett Barbara Podger Dainty Swallowtail (Papilio anactus) Captions for photos supplied Dainty Swallowtails are well-known to those with citrus growing in their yard, as these are the plants this elegant Karouta Fanny by Suzi Bond species breeds on. They have a distinctive gliding flight, Macleay’s Swallowtail and the males are strong hilltoppers around the suburban Graphium macleayanum peaks of Canberra Nature Park such as the summits of Black ( ) Mountain and Red Hill. This is surely one of the most delightful butterflies to grace the Gardens. This butterfly, unusually, has bright green legs, but also has green eggs, caterpillars, pupae and of course the adults have the lovely green wings. Males are strong hilltoppers and they are easily attracted to flowers, making Barred Skipper (Dispar compacta) for perfect photo opportunities. In the (at right) ANBG Macleay’s Swallowtails breed on plants like Three-veined Cryptocarya The ANBG is a fantastic place to find (Cryptocarya triplinervis), Sassafras this little skipper. They can be found (Doryphora sassafras) and Southern from midsummer to early autumn on Sassafras (Atherospermum moschatum), daisy flowers; they breed on grasses and while in the Brindabella Ranges they mat-rushes, and the males and females breed on Mountain Pepper (Tasmannia are dimorphic. lanceolata). Bill Hall

Fronds 97 April 2021 9 Redevelopment of the East Core Precinct Tony Kelly and Craig Cosgrove

isitors to the Gardens will new terraced steps, improved entry areas. The wonderful ferns and other have noticed over the last to Pollen Café and visitor orienta- wet forest plants in the build footprint few weeks that preliminary tion, modified main path and new have been relocated to other areas in work is starting on the rock retaining walls. Stage 1 works the ANBG. Once canopy plants have Vredevelopment of the East Core Precinct will include acknowledgement to matured there will be an opportunity (café and lawn area). the Friends of the Gardens by way to include other interesting and more of engraving ‘Friends Lawn’ into the delicate Tasmanian plant species. Fog The redevelopment of the East Core concrete terraces. will be added to provide more suitable Precinct landscape is part of the ANBG microclimate conditions for the Master Plan program. The successful contractor will work rainforest plants. closely with ANBG staff to reduce dis- This project will enhance the visitor’s ruption to the gardens and Pollen Café A new sweeping path, consistent with experience of the Gardens, provide during the construction works. the existing main path surface type, increased outdoor dining space for will connect to the Ian Potter National Pollen Café and add a quality entry way Construction is planned to start 10 May Conservatory. The new path will include to key attractions such as the Ian Potter 2021 with an expected completion date path lighting to match that planned National Conservatory. in August 2021. for the Conservatory path to cater The development will contribute to the Stage 2 works will start once funding for night-time events and safe access ongoing efforts to enhance the Gardens is available. This work will consist of a through the precinct at night. There through meaningful and high-quality new level lawn, the inclusion of some will be a space for quiet contemplation landscape design. durable Tasmanian plant species on the which includes a Ceremony Garden. Gully side of the new works, as well as Capital funding has been secured for A generous donation has already been showcasing some visually appealing and Stage 1 of the works which consists of pledged to contribute to the construc- ANBG unique species around the café extending the Pollen Café decking area, tion of this part of the garden.

Concept site plan defining stages 1 and 2

10 April 2021 Fronds 97 Report from the Friends’ President Neville Page

Here we are in April, 2021 already: half between members. The Thursday Talks The ANBG Management have called way into the Friends’ Year. How time Committee has changed. After a great for tenders to construct the new flies! At this time last year we were contribution, Jan Finley, Doug Laing Conservatory. When completed, the coming to terms with COVID-19 and and Rita Maclachlan have decided to Conservatory will be unlike anything what it meant to our day-to-day lives. hand over the reins. Their considerable else in Australia, and will be a major new Much has happened in the meantime, contribution is much appreciated by attraction for the Gardens. Tenders have and things are looking better going for- everyone. At their meeting in February, also been called to undertake works on ward. We still have quite a long way to the Friends Council expressed apprecia- the grounds in the vicinity of the Pollen go though, before we’re back to normal. tion for their efforts. We have a new Café, lawn and main path. This is the so- Thursday Talks Committee, comprising called East Core Precinct Development. I’m pleased to say that the Friends mem- Liz Truswell (Chair), Linda Beveridge, It is a major exercise and will take quite bership has held up very well during Anthony Whelan and Barbara some time to complete. The project will these difficult times. In January we had Hamburger. We thank them for step- be undertaken in three stages with a total 2,685 members. This compares with ping up, and we wish them all the very cost in excess of $1 million. 2,572 at the same time last year. The best in attracting interesting speakers. fact that we have been able to maintain Gardens Management is currently in our membership numbers, and in fact Growing Friends have been very active the process of preparing a new ten year increase them slightly is a great tribute under difficult conditions with COVID- Management Plan. Submissions from to our Membership Team, comprising 19 restrictions, but have managed to stakeholders, including the Friends, Lesley Harland and Pam Cooke. At achieve the successful sale of many plants, with suggestions of what should go into their February meeting, the Friends despite not being able to mount a public the plan were called for, with a closing Council resolved that I should write to plant sale. Other Friends special interest date in March. The Friends submis- Lesley and Pam, expressing our appre- groups including the Botanic Art Group sion was wide-ranging, and included ciation for the great work they do. and Photographic Group have continued topics such as visitation rate, indigenous to operate, including holding exhibitions culture, health and safety, risk manage- It is exciting to see Thursday Talks in spite of the difficulties. Flowers, Fruit ment, volunteer programs and quite a back, after an extended break due to and Foliage (previously In Flower This few other topics. We look forward to COVID-19 restrictions. Thursday Week) remains a popular Friends attrac- the stakeholder consultation and feed- Talks are one of the most important tion with visitors to the Gardens. The back processes. of the Friends’ many activities. These Plant Science Group is currently on hold weekly talks do perhaps more than Best wishes to everyone. pending appointment of a new convenor. anything else to foster communication

Ins_p_i_r_e_. _R_e__p_le_n__is_h_._ _C_o_n_n_ect Where friends can just 'Be'. 10% friends discount on all treatments & services* Groups and special events. *not redeemable on gift vouchers.

Ring: 6257 8777 www.jindii.com.au ____ Australian National Friends Council Members November 2020: (from left) Alan Henderson, Linda Beveridge (Vice Botanic Gardens President), Helen Elliot (Treasurer), Lynden Ayliffe (Secretary), Neville Page (President), Wendy Antoniak, Lesley King, Wanda Filsell, David More (insert).

Fronds 97 April 2021 11 Banksia Garden - pruning banksias Jane Keogh lmost a year has passed of Western Australia (WA). Sixty of planted on the large mounds on your since the cancellation of the species are in the Banksia Garden, left. WA banksias are notoriously diffi- the official opening of the including one from the Northern cult to grow outside their natural habitat. Banksia Garden (later held Territory (B.dentata) and several which Trial beds were established in Section Ain October), due to the pandemic. In are critically endangered (B. vincen- 335 (on the Main Path) a few years ago that time, much has been learnt, the tia) or endangered (B. brownii and B. where hardier WA species were planted banksias have another year’s growth cuneata or Matchstick Banksia). in sandstone rubble. Most of those plants on them and species which would not survived a severe hailstorm and then You will notice as you walk into the have been flowering in April 2020, now an exceptionally wet summer; the extra Banksia Garden that WA species are have their first flowers. TheBanksia genus is one of the best known genera of Australian plants. There are about 80 species of banksia, most of which are from the south west

Volunteer guides were fortunate enough to watch a pruning demonstration Images: Pam Rooney Images: Pam A grafted specimen of B. dentata from northern Australia is growing in a mobile container which will be moved undercover when frost (or hail) is forecast

David Taylor pruning B. serrata to reveal the characteristic stems and trunk

12 April 2021 Fronds 97 Banksia Garden - pruning banksias

year’s experience, courtesy the pandemic, allowing the wrinkled trunk to be vis- Horticultural staff have identified new gave the horticultural staff confidence in ible as the matures. forms of other banksias which have the suitability of the soil mix. the potential for commercialisation. There are three different forms of B. With the grafting experience of Visitors may also notice that the name marginata (Silver Banksia), the only spe- ANBG staff, the day may come tags on some of the plants have red tape cies native to the ACT, in the Banksia when it will be possible to plant an on them. These are species which have Garden. Branches growing upwards on avenue of the WA species B. menziesii been grafted, usually on to B. integrifolia the low-growing form were removed to (Firewood Banksia) and B. coccinea (Coast Banksia), an eastern species. This maintain the appearance of a ground (Scarlet Banksia) which will rival the overcomes the problems associated with cover. Geoff West also demonstrated of New South Wales. drainage and watering. Grafting bank- pruning the small branches which sias is both difficult and slow. ANBG obscured the flowers onB. sphaerocarpa B. occidentalis horticultural staff have had several years and . The Friends would like to thank developing grafting skills and it is hoped During construction drainage was David Taylor for his generous sup- that, with time, all species which are dif- installed to direct moisture to the lower port, his enthusiasm, and knowledge ficult to grow in Canberra, will be grafted north-eastern corner of the Garden. The shared with the Guides and the on to compatible eastern species. banksia with large purple leaves grow- Friends over many years. We have Some banksias have lignotubers and/or ing there is a form of B. robur (Swamp heard that he intends to retire from epicormic shoots which will allow them Banksia) which has been growing at the ANBG in April, but we are sure to recover after fires and those species the ANBG for about thirty years. It he won’t be able to keep away from can be pruned very heavily. Those spe- has been named ‘Purple the place, and we will continue to cies that do not have a lignotuber and Paramour’ and is currently in the pro- see him around! depend on seed for recovery should not cess of being commercialised. be cut back too severely. Many plants in the Banksia Garden have been, and will continue to be, pruned regularly. Ten volunteer guides were fortunate enough to watch a pruning demonstra- tion by David Taylor and Geoff West. B. serrata (Old Man Banksia) has a very attractive ‘wrinkled’ trunk. The leaves and branches along the trunk can be removed while the plant is young,

B. sphaerocarpa B. occidentalis

Geoff West pruningB. occidentalis There are a number of specimens of B. robur 'Purple Paramour'

Fronds 97 April 2021 13 Friendly Chatter

Botanic Art Groups regions. All Friends are invited to a painting not subject to formal judging, The Botanic Art Groups are pleased to preview of the exhibition on Friday 2 the Artist’s Choice. Though this painting have resumed their regular meetings on April from 2pm to 4pm when paint- does have to be botanically recognisable. the second Thursday, second Saturday ings will be for sale before the exhibi- and fourth Wednesday of each month Commissions from sales raise funds for tion is open to the public. This is an in the beautiful, refurbished Banksia the Friends who support the Gardens in opportunity to have first choice of the Centre at the Gardens. At the suggestion so many ways. Please visit the exhibi- many outstanding works. of members, a class for beginners has tion. A complimentary bookmark is been included. Maria Boreham gener- Botanical art takes many hours of included in this edition showing a few ously offered to take the class in March. careful attention to detail, so members of the beautiful works. have been working for some months It was so popular that two were held. We are always pleased to welcome new now. All artworks are judged by a team This year we will hold our 14th Annual members so please contact us at of botanists from the Gardens to ensure Botanic Art Exhibition, From the [email protected] accuracy, and by two artists, Sharon Field Desert to the Sea from 3 April to 2 May if you want more information. and Margaret Saul, to ascertain artistic in the Visitor Centre Gallery. There will merit, before being hung in the exhibi- Kate Ramsey be a special feature on plants from arid tion. Each artist may also enter one other

Gossypium stuartianum, Nilavan Adams

Pink Wildflowers, Vivien Pinder

Swainsona formosa, Jann Ollerenshaw , Jacqui Gilleand

14 April 2021 Fronds 97 Friendly Chatter

Growing Friends Photographic Group Happily, Growing Friends can now and other plants providing food. Growing 2020 was a very different year for the host a full complement of members at Friends working in the igloo shade area Photographic Group but we worked their Tuesday working group – a wel- were recently delighted to host visitations around all the obstacles thrown our way. come change after the restrictions due from an Eastern Spinebill that was making We even held our Annual Exhibition to COVID-19. itself at home amongst the larger pots ‘Reflections’ and raised $2,162.60 for inside the igloo. What a pleasure to see the Friends. This year will still challenge Following generous rain in Canberra birds and plants together. us but we have planned a calendar of in December and January, many of the presentations and outings, some outside new plants in small pots are quickly the Gardens - refer to the Calendar on developing good roots and small estab- the Friends website. lished plants are becoming so large they are being re-potted into larger pots. The Our exhibition this year ‘Recovery’, will igloo is abuzz with ‘friendly chatter’ and include an Awards section. The Awards is returning to its old lively atmosphere. inclusion is to acknowledge photog- raphers who can support and raise Seed beds are a hive of activity, with awareness of the aims and values of the members experimenting with seeds Australian National Botanic Gardens never trialled before as well as seeds with through their photographs. different needs and pre-treatments. One Of course, there is always the local member planted new seeds after heat Eastern Water Dragon population often Awards and associated financial rewards treatment at 90 degrees for an hour and seen in the Gardens. The group hopes will be for categories of Plant Portrait, a half. We shall be interested to see how to identify specific plants that attract Wildlife in the Gardens, the Banksia they grow. the that are in the dragons’ diet. in recognition of Joseph Banks who visited Australia 250 years ago last year, Our February meeting had an exten- These plants will then be included in and rare and threatened species. The sive demonstration of all the databases propagation sessions. Exhibition and Awards challenge will used for plant identification. Old and showcase our photographers and their new members garnered information skill in capturing the Garden’s wide- about APRAAL (the list of plants that ranging diversity of flora and fauna are approved for propagation); IBIS through the medium of pictures. (ANBG’s living collection database); Find-a-Plant and; and the Growing Terms and conditions for the Exhibition/ Friends database. The Growing Friends Awards will be available soon. database contains all the information Exhibition and Awards will be open about the Growing Friends’ propagation Plants grown by Growing Friends are to all members of the Photographic sessions going back to 1993; with the offered for sale twice yearly and make Group which you can join for free as a more recent entries containing the suc- attractive additions to urban gardens, Friend of the ANBG. Please join us and cess rates for each plant. The databases particularly those with a bit more participate in our activities, you never form an integral part in the group’s space for the likes of Banksias and know who you may meet and what you preparation for each monthly propaga- smaller gums. can share. To join look on the Friends tion session. New members are welcome. More of the ANBG website, search for ‘get Often our propagation sessions have a experienced Growing Friends are most involved’ and send us an email at theme. This could be a plant type such as happy to help new members with [email protected] Banksias, or smaller species suited to the answers and solutions to plant propaga- Alternatively, you can collect a pocket size urban gardens of today. Plants tion. Talk to one of the Growing Friends Photographic Group brochure from the could be chosen for bee attracting quali- today. foyer of the Visitor Centre, fill it out and ties (usually by beekeepers in the group!). For more information, please email place it in the Friends mailbox located on Plants specific for the needs of birds are [email protected] the counter of the reception desk. the current theme. Plants in the Gardens Donna Growcock Hoping that 2021 is good for all of us. support many bird species with habitat such as sleep trees for Tawny Frogmouths, Helen Dawes

Fronds 97 April 2021 15 Friendly Chatter (contd.)

Volunteer Guides mark Canberra Tree Week, 1-9 May. Don’t be surprised if you hear squeals Themed walks are likely to be of of delight, or a buzz of excited voices particular interest to regular ANBG around the Gardens during future visitors and Friends, as they showcase school holidays – guides are offering a specific areas and provide a more new ‘Secrets of the Australian Bush’ tour specialised focus. Details of walks are for families. available on the ANBG website and social media. All free guided walks are This ‘Family Flora Explorer Bus Tour’ at 11am daily. takes advantage of features of the Alison Turner Gardens that children enjoy the most, Lesley King, Convenor such as riding the bus itself, walking in the rainforest and past the Thorny Devil Plant Science Group in the Red Centre Garden. The tour As stated in the President’s Report finishes just near the Tree house and (p12), the Plant Science Group is children’s trail. currently on hold pending appoint- The tour was developed by four guides, ment of a new convenor. The Group in consultation and rigorously tested was originally established in 2013 as with a group of primary aged children. an umbrella for volunteer activities Orchid Conservation Symposium Offered at multiple times over two of a technical, scientific and research The Australian Network for Plant days in the January school holidays, the nature. Emerging from plant iden- Conservation (ANPC) will be work- tours were fully booked and very much tification talks to Botanic Resource ing with project partners to organise enjoyed by the 53 passengers who joined. Centre facilitators, the main, regular an orchid conservation symposium in The children also liked the brochure activity became monthly technical 2021. This symposium to be held over with pictures and a check list of what talks and the occasional fascinating two days will provide an online forum they might see. These tours are offered excursion to other Gardens such as to increase awareness of the ecology during the Easter school holidays; and we Mt Annan and botanical institutions and conservation of orchids amongst anticipate they will be a regular feature such as herbaria and the National practitioners. It will also provide an of school holidays, exciting families and Collection (CSIRO). opportunity to share the project’s results the next generation about the wonderful Group members have also had the and promote networking among the world of Australian plants. opportunity to assist with the ANBG’s orchid conservation community. The stocktake of its living collection and symposium is scheduled for 22 & 23 to be involved in research projects June 2021. such as an Acacia pollination project; an ANU, ANBG and ANBG Friends Australian Research Council grant addressing alpine seed and seedling ecology; and the implementation of an ANBG conservation project deal- ing with the long-term survival of two populations of Fan Grevillea () on ANBG land led by Alison Turner Dr Rosemary Purdie (a Plant Science Meanwhile, guides have been learning Group Member). about the amazing array of Banksias COVID-19 restrictions have forced blossoming in the new Banksia Garden, For more information on the project a hiatus in the group’s activities and and preparing to offer a range of themed please head to the ANPC website. walks throughout the coming year. key organising members have been Themes are designed to be season- drawn elsewhere. Friends Council is Funding for this project was provided ally relevant: we ran Eucalypt walks currently looking at the way ahead for by the Australian Government's Wildlife during March, and Tree walks will the Plant Science Group. and Habitat Bushfire Recovery Program. Lesley Harland

16 April 2021 Fronds 97

Creating an Australian Garden, Always welcomes Friends! 2010, Angus Stewart, with a 10% discount on purchases cultivars, plus tips on growing Soft cover, 256 pages, Colour pho- over $10, including the purchase and maintenance. Author, Angus tographs, $35.00 of gift vouchers, on production of Stewart looks at some examples of the customer's membership card A great book to get you started on different established native gardens for the person whose name is on building your dream Australian that he has visited to provide garden! It contains everything inspiration and ideas, including this card. you need to know on planning the a peek at our lovely Australian No discount on redemption of gift garden including consideration of National Botanic Gardens here in vouchers. soil, rainfall, climate, paths, water, Canberra! An excellent guide to www.botanicalbookshop.com.au and garden art. There is a large creating a stunning native garden, more information on our Facebook section of beautiful native plant wherever you live. page at 'Botanical Bookshop'

The Sustainable House Handbook, 2020, Josh Byrne, Soft cover, 192 pages, Colour photographs, illus- trations, $40.00 The Sustainable House Handbook is a comprehensive guide to planning and building an affordable, energy- efficient and waterwise home for the future. Author Josh Byrne takes you through the process that he went through whilst building his own 10-star energy rated house, with helpful advice and tips on everything from choices of building materials and setup of solar systems through to landscaping, food production and composting. Packed with colour photographs and useful site plans, this book is inspiring and instructive.

Dyirri the Frog, 2003, Don Bell, Soft cover, 29 pages, Colour illustrations, $25.00 Dyirri the Frog - A Ngunawal Aboriginal Story as told by Ngunawal Elder Don Bell and illustrated by Holly Herring tells the story of a little frog who, along with the help of the bad spirit Gudba, became mischievous and naughty to the other frogs and at the billabong. Lessons are learnt, and Dyirri is given a second chance and a new transformation. A gorgeous book for children, and extra special that it is a local story by a local author!

Fronds 97 April 2021 17 Gardens Shorts

From the Executive Director It is proving to be a busy and productive year at the Gardens so far. We have been recording record visitation over spring and summer in comparison with the same periods over the last 5-10 years. With travel restrictions and milder weather, visitors have been keen to be outdoors in the Gardens setting. Sabrina Sonntag Interpretive signage in the Rainforest Gully The Gardens is in the process of devel- highlights the conservation plantings of jansennii. oping a new Management Plan that will set the direction for the future of The Gardens is now growing over 40 the Gardens and guide its management plants of this species in the Rainforest from 2022–2032. Now that the Have Gully. The plantings form one of four Your Say period is complete, a draft living conservation collections that can plan is being developed and will be be used to help restore trees in their made available for public comment in natural habitat if needed. The original November 2021. The final Management collection of trees was propagated at Plan will be in place in 2022. Tondoon Botanic Gardens from cuttings Look for ‘Little Rockstar’ under the Australian National Botanic Gardens label. An audit of the current Management Plan taken under strict licence conditions was positive, with 93% of the policies and from 43 wild trees. Additional collections a range of moisture levels from well- 82% of the actions implemented. are held at Brisbane Botanic Gardens and watered through to dry conditions. In the Maroochy Research Facility. its common name ‘Little Rockstar’. We are excited to be moving forward Little refers to its compact growing with plans for the new National Seed Traditional Owners of Macadamia habit, reaching 60 – 80 cm depending Bank. The design will be unveiled next jansenii’s threatened rainforest habitat on how much direct sun it receives. month while we will simultaneously be are involved in its management through Star is a typical common name often launching a fundraising campaign for the Port Curtis Coral Coast Trust and used for Croweas. donations for critical equipment for the the Gidarjil Development Corporation. facility. Although Macadamia jansenii is related Going virtual - adapting to a to commercially cultivated macadamia COVID world The construction of the Ian Potter species, its fruit has a bitter taste and is National Conservatory will start within not edible. ASBP Australasian Seed Science the next couple of months, so you will Conference see lots of activity once that begins. We Crowea ‘Rockstar’ The Australian Seed Bank Partnership will also begin expanding the Café deck Be on the lookout for a special new is pleased to advise that the Australasian and redevelop the surrounding area to release of Crowea ‘Little Rockstar’ to local Seed Science Conference, regrettably improve the visitor experience. nurseries under the Australian National postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19, Judy West Botanic Gardens label this autumn! will proceed via a new online forum on This plant has been cultivated from a the 6-10 September 2021. seedling variant that appeared in the The conference will focus on the impor- Working to save Australia’s Gardens with a distinctly compact form. rarest Macadamia tance of seed science for the future Our horticulturalists reproduced it to of plant conservation and food secu- Commonly known as Bulburin Nut, plant out in a trial last year to see how it rity with keynote presentations from Macadamia jansenii is the rarest of four would grow. threatened macadamia species native to Australia. It is known from only one We’re now planting them in a few small population in Queensland. more locations to test growing condi- tions in soils ranging from sandy and thin, to deep well-draining soils with

18 April 2021 Fronds 97 Gardens Shorts

Australian and International experts. We The Gardens is partnering with propagated through the project will be encourage everyone interested in seed Booderee Botanic Gardens, Wollongong shared across botanic gardens within biology, seed sourcing, seed banking, Botanic Gardens, Local Land Services NSW and the ACT. and the role of seeds in culture and and the NSW government to secure ex- society to log on come September. To situ collections of this species. Bushfire recovery boost to alpine learn more visit seed collecting seedscience2021.com.au/ This past summer season, the National Seed Bank (NSB) gave a boost to its 2021 Volunteer Botanical long-time alpine collecting program Training Program goes virtual with extra support provided through Twelve enthusiastic participants from projects aimed at bushfire recovery. The across four states joined Australian NSB team collected a range of bushfire- National Herbarium botanists for their impacted alpine and subalpine species first ever online version of the annual where it was sustainable to do so. They Botanical Training Program. specifically targeted geographic areas with poor representation in ex situ col- Due to the uncertainty surrounding lections, such as Mt Jagungal, Bogong COVID-19, the usual 6-7 week in- Peaks and Namadgi National Park. person program was run as a three-week Their efforts also involved collecting online program of virtual workshops species from a greater number of popu- and presentations covering botani- lations to try and increase the genetic cal collections and research projects diversity currently held in the NSB. at the Centre for Australian National Sabrina Sonntag Biodiversity Research along with online Gardens Plant Records Officer, Tamera Beath, Additional collecting and staff sup- projects directly related to real-life work assesses seed set and development time of a port was made possible by Australian in the Herbarium. Magenta Lilly Pilly at Booderee National Park Government funding through Project in order to inform seed collecting planning. Conserving Syzygium panicula- Phoenix coordinated by Greening tum, Magenta Lilly Pilly A genomic study is underway that Australia, and the Office of Threatened will confirm the presence or absence Species Commissioner Tranche 2 Bushfire Syzygium paniculatum is a rainforest of hybrids and assess genetic diversity Recovery, both delivered through the tree from the New South Wales (NSW) across sub-populations. The outcomes of Australian Seed Bank Partnership. coast listed as vulnerable under the the genomic study will help inform pro- EPBC Act. ject design and collecting work. Plants Dave Albrecht Bronwyn Collins from the Australian National Herbarium (upper left), presents to Botanical Tom North, Curator National Seed Bank, Training participants with a virtual background ‘out in the field’. collecting in Clarke Gorge, Kosciuzsko National Park for Project Phoenix.

Fronds 97 April 2021 19 Making a bequest

We understand that planning your Will is a very Gardens Shorts (contd.) Friends Briefs personal and private matter. All conversations and details about your gift are strictly confidential and th you can remain anonymous should you wish. Secretive Slime Moulds – new A bequest to protect Australian The Friends 30 Birthday book launched plants Party: Bubbles, Birthdays and If you are considering a legacy bequest to the A new comprehensive description You can help shape the future of ANBG Everlasting Circle, we strongly recommend of Australia’s 330 known species of Gardens through a gift in your Will. you discuss your plans with your family and get Myxomycetes, Secretive Slime Moulds The Friends finally held our birthday Inspired by Australian Everlasting advice from your solicitor who will handle the features numerous fascinating illus- party, Bubbles, Birthdays and Banksias on Daisies, the Gardens Everlasting Circle legal requirements to ensure that your vision and trations where nature rivals Dr Seuss a balmy spring afternoon in November offers a secure, long-term impact for generosity thrive into the future. creations. Neither plants,A nor bequest animals, 2020. The party was postponed from National Parks Conservation Trust your gift, with bequeathed funds held nor fungi, the Myxomycetes are a sur- April, due to COVID-19 restrictions. While the Everlasting Fund is the preferred ANBG in a special Everlasting Fund. Only The NPCT is a registered charity with deductibleprisingly diverse and fascinatingto protect group bequest model to protect Australian plants, if you investment income in the fund is More than 80 Friends’ members gath- gift recipient status, that provides opportunitiesof organisms. do have a specific request, please get in touch spent on Gardens projects – so the ered on the Education Lawn, which was to support conservation in and around with us to discuss your wishes. This new book by StevenAustralian Stephenson Gardens benefit from your generosity decorated with balloons, fresh flowers Commonwealth National Parks and Gardens,and edited by Tony Orchard was in perpetuity. and foliage, and a display of historical including the ANBG. published by the Australian Biological photos and documents hung on clothes- plantsThe work of the Gardens is more Resources Study with CSIRO publish- lines around the lawn. All bequests to the ANBG are managed by the important than ever as together we seek ing and released in March this year. NPCT, governed by the Trustees and their finance to protect our native plants for future Guests enjoyed sparkling wine and committee, on behalf of the ANBG. The Executive generations.The brochure included individual boxes of delicious nibbles. Director of the ANBG is the Ex‑Officio board in this magazine provides further Anne Joyce, a driving force behind the member for the NPCT. information on the Gardens Everlasting establishment of the Friends, unveiled Circle should this be of interest to you. the birthday cake, a tower of individual birthday cupcakes. For more information National Seed Bank building Please contact our experienced design plans and Seed the Future Partnerships Team if you would like more online auction - coming soon information and a copy of the ANBG Everlasting Circle booklet, 02 6250 9426 or We are excited to report that the design email [email protected] plans for the new National Seed Bank will be released in May. www.parkstrust.org.au To coincide with the Gardens releasing the building plans, the Seed the Future [email protected] online auction will be launched by the

+61 2 6250 9426 Jim Gould National Parks Conservation Trust. The online auction will engage the All images in this document are credited to Parks Australia. EcoStar is an environmentally responsible paper made Carbon Neutral. community on the important work Anne Joyce unveiling the birthday cake Printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper. undertaken at the National Seed Bank to protect Australian plants. Funds raised will help to: purchase specialist equipment for the National Seed Bank; support scientific research to uncover nature's secrets on how to bank, germinate and grow species to enable rewilding; and enable the Gardens to give back to volunteers through enhanced learning and development opportunities. Helen Dawes Stay tuned for further details in the upcoming eBulletin and how to get involved – every donation makes a Arcyria denudata, a secretive slime mould real difference. Christianna Cobold, a member of 30th Anniversary sub-committee, with the birthday cake tower

20 April 2021 Fronds 97 Friends Briefs

Special guests included 15 Friends Foundation members, 10 Life Members, Dr Judy West, Peter Byron, and David Taylor. The Friends immediate past President, Max Bourke, and Dr West spoke at the event, and David Taylor gave an inter- esting introductory talk about the new Banksia Garden. Guests had the opportunity to explore

the newly opened Banksia Garden Jim Gould where David Taylor, along with six Volunteer Guides, helped interpret aspects of the garden. Foundation members of the Friends of the ANBG (joined in 1990) at the 30th Anniversary Party Friends’ member Don Beer agreed to with current Friends President, Neville Page: Back row (L to R): Rosemary Purdie, Don Fletcher, Anthony Nicholls, Julia Nicholls, Murray Fagg, sign his recently released book on the (Neville Page), John FitzGerald, Kerry Moir history of the ANBG Miracle on Black Front row (L to R): Kath Holtzapffel, Jenny Hadlow, Barry Hadlow, Anne Joyce, Barbara Duus, Mountain. Lesley Harland Elaine Staples, a member of the Friends and an owner of Kerralee Wines, spon- sored the event by generously donating the wine. We are most grateful to Elaine for the donation. The 30th Anniversary sub-committee, who organised this celebration, would like to thank everyone who contributed to its success: those who assisted in the lead-up to the event, those who helped out on the day with set-up and manage- ment, our guest speakers, the Volunteer Guides, the photographers, Kerralee Wines, and the Gardens staff. In par-

ticular, we would like to acknowledge Jim Gould the help of David More with invitations and IT support and also, Helen Elliot

for her help with bookings and banking. Life Members of the Friends of the ANBG at the 30th Anniversary Party, with current Friends We would also like to thank Council for President, Neville Page: Back row (L to R): Kath Holtzapffel, John Connolly, Barbara Podger, (Neville Page) supporting and underwriting the event Front row (L to R): Marion Jones, Maureen Connolly, Anne Joyce, Warwick Wright, Pat Wright and, of course, we thank the Gardens for the wonderful location. Barbara Podger, Chair, 30th Anniversary sub-committee Helen Dawes Members of the Friends Photographic Group, Helen Dawes and Jim Gould, took these and many other photos A beautiful evening, celebrating our 30th anniversary with Friends

Fronds 97 April 2021 21 What’s on at the Gardens - April to August 2021 Details of events are correct at the time of printing. For changes and updates please check the Friends website at www.friendsanbg.org.au or the Gardens site at: www.anbg.gov.au Event bookings should be made on the Gardens website

Secrets of the Australian Bush - A Canberra Tree Week - Diversity in interdisciplinary artist Dr Tracey Benson Family Adventure Natives on a 'walkshop' around the Gardens, 12, 13 & 16 Apr, times vary. Suitable 1 – 9 May, 11.00 am – 12.00 pm, Free focusing on walking and connecting to for 4-10 years with accompanying the trees. Join a guided walk for Canberra Tree guardian. $8 adult, $5 child, Week to see and learn about the diversity MEGAfauna - once there were giants! bookings essential of Australian trees. 26 Jun – 25 Jul, 8.30 am – 5.00 pm Discover the secrets of plants that live Free in the Australian bush on this family- Canberra Tree Week - Haiku Walk friendly bus tour. Travel on the Flora 5 May, 12.30 pm – 2.00 pm Embark on an adventure trail filled with Explorer, walk through the Rainforest $5 per person, bookings essential nature, science and history. Come face to face with Australia’s prehistoric past Gully, visit the Red Centre Garden and Wander through the Eucalypts and write finish at the Paperbark Treehouse. by immersing yourself in the Gardens haiku with local poet, Sarah St Vincent newest Megafauna trail – the first of its Removing Woody Weeds from Black Welch, on a mid-week creative break kind in Australia. Mountain and/or within ANBG during Tree Week. Bring along papers, Check Friends website for meeting pen or pencils and something to lean on. place for each weeding work party and Canberra Tree Week - Talking with email your name and phone number to Trees, Artist Walk [email protected] or 8 May, 10.30 am - 12.30 pm phone Linda (0437 298 711) or Libby (02 $5 per person, bookings essential 6296 1936) so there is enough delicious morning tea. In conjunction with the Talking Saturday 3 April 2021, 8.30 to 11.30am with Trees exhibition, join Canberra Saturday 1 May 2021, 9.00am to 12.00 Saturday 5 June 2021, 9.00am to 12.00 Saturday 3 July 2021, 9.00am to 12.00 Exhibitions Saturday 7 Aug 2021, 9.00am to 12.00 Visitor Centre Gallery, Open Daily 9.30 am – 4.30 pm, Heritage Festival - Indigenous Plant FREE Use Walk 8 – 23 Apr, days and times vary, Please confirm dates on either the ANBG or Friends website $5 per person, bookings essential Enjoy a ranger-guided walk along the 3 April - 2 May, From the Desert to the Sea: Botanic Art Groups Exhibition Aboriginal Plant Use Trail and learn about The 14th annual Friends’ Botanic Art Group exhibition celebrating Australian the importance of plants to Aboriginal native flora, including plants from arid areas using watercolours, coloured peoples. Discover how they used plants pencil, graphite, pastels and acrylic paints. for food, medicine and more. Step back in time and see how the Gardens have 5 - 30 May, Talking with Trees transformed over the last 50 years. Artist Tracey Benson seeks to evoke the emotions of reverence, hope and empow- Magic Garden - Concert as part of the erment using photography, video and augmented reality. As part of Canberra Canberra International Music Festival Tree Week, the exhibition features historic and contemporary images showing the 30 Apr, 11.30 am – 1.00 pm evolution of our Gardens to a site of understanding of our native flora, as well as a $55 general admission, $50 place of reflection, discovery and species protection. Concession, bookings essential 2 – 20 June, Into the Wild Discover the magic of the Gardens with A collection of floral designs created by students in the Floristry Certificate 3 performances from some of Australia’s at Canberra Institute of Technology, dedicated to the diversity and range of renowned musicians. As part of the Canberra International Music Festival, Australian native wildflowers and foliage. this concert leads you through the 28 July – 15 August, Fruit, Flowers, Feathers & Fur Gardens’ Rainforest Gully, Rock Garden An exhibition of botanical and wildlife treasures by four local artists - Wendy and the new Banksia Garden with Antoniak, Maria Boreham, Cornelia Buchen-Osmond and Vivien Pinder. musicians at every corner. For more information visit www.cimf.org.au

22 April 2021 Fronds 97 Thursday Talks - April to August 2021

Lunchtime talks are held at 12.30 pm every Thursday from February to November in the Gardens’ Theatrette. Talks last for 1 hour. Admission is by gold coin/s donation. The talks are held in line with COVID-19 guidelines which can change rapidly. Bookings are essential, and the booking link for each talk is on the www.friendsanbg.org.au/calendar entry for the talk. Bookings can be made from the Friday before the talk until the Wednesday night before the talk. The Friends of the ANBG thank the speakers who volunteer their time and talents to further the knowledge of all attending events in the Gardens. The Friends use the donations received at each activity to support Gardens programs and development and thank all those who have donated. Please note: unless otherwise indicated, talks are in the ANBG Theatrette. Some summaries or PowerPoint presentations of Thursday talks are available to Friends from the ANBG library. A donation to the Friends for the use of this material will be gratefully accepted. Please direct queries about the talks to the Thursday Talks Team: email [email protected] April Thursday 1 April Thursday 13 May Dr Heidi Zimmer ‘The iconic Wollemi Dr Anna Howe ‘Planting Democracy: Pine’ Plantings, Places and People in the Heidi, from the Centre for Australian Parliamentary Triangle’ National Biodiversity Research, will talk Anna, with a keen interest in urban about her thesis which began with the geography, will ask how the landscape question: why are there so few medium- of the Parliamentary Triangle, that sized Wollemia nobilis individuals expresses our democracy and changing between the seedling and canopy tree national identity, will evolve when facing size classes (i.e. between 2-20 m in increasing and diverse demands. height)? Thursday 20 May Thursday 8 April Dr Alicia Grealey ‘Eggshell Collection Dr Francisco Sanchez-Bayo ‘The Genomics: Approaches and decline of the entomofauna and its Applications to the Study of Australian drivers’ Birds’ Francisco, from the University of From her experience as a post-doctoral David Coutts Sydney, will talk about the ecological Murrumbidgee River fellow at ANU, Alicia will talk about implications of world-wide decline in the developing techniques that offer biodiversity of insects and the priority currently being put into place by the opportunities to examine how diversity actions needed to stem the decline Trust to preserve and restore the natural has changed across time. As a post- Thursday 15 April environment and cultural values as far as doctoral fellow at ANU she found Professor Adrienne Nicotra & Dr possible in the context of nearby major that the study of museum eggshells Veronica Briceno ‘Living on the urban development. is an untapped resource of genomic Edge: How do Plants of Threatened Thursday 29 April information for thousands of avian Ecological Communities Cope with David Taylor ‘Banksia Garden’ species including rare and extinct taxa. Extreme Temperature?' David will talk about some of the Thursday 27 May Adrienne, from the Research School of challenges, thinking, planning and Doug Laing ‘Fall of the Warbler’ Biology, ANU, will talk on a research collaboration that has gone into bringing Doug, a retired diplomat, will talk about partnership between the ANU, ANBG and this garden to reality, and why all the the long migration of the sparrow-size Friends, the University of Technology effort is worth it. wood warblers, many of which make Sydney, the Sydney Botanical Gardens, a brief pit-stop to refuel in New York’s and Save the Species Program, which May Central Park before continuing north. seeks to provide critical data on the Thursday 6 May In May 2018 Doug was witness to this physiological tolerances of Australian Dr Chris Cargill ‘The 3 R’s: Riccia, Riella truly great spectacle. He will describe the native species from alpine, desert and and Research’ experience, wonder at the drivers behind threatened ecological communities. Chris, curator of the cryptogam this migration, and look at some of the Thursday 22 April collections at the Australian National technology that is helping science better David Coutts & David Maxwell Herbarium, will talk about her latest understand it. ‘Ginninderry Conservation Park’ research on the fascinating and beautiful The talk will cover the background thalloid liverwort Riccia, and her to the Park and the plans that are collaborative projects with colleagues from Victoria to Valencia.

Fronds 97 April 2021 23 June and landscapes, particularly the 1895- the evolution of mating systems in 1903 Federation Drought. Lessons learnt birds. DNA fingerprinting of fairy wrens Thursday 3 June give key insights into the likely future of debunked the myth that these birds lived Dr Natasha Robinson ‘Reintroducing the Australian landscapes and society in in faithful monogamous pairs. But why Bandicoots and Quolls to Booderee coming decades of climate change. are the birds in declining numbers? National Park’ Thursday 8 July Natasha is a Research Fellow with Peter Taylor ‘A re-examination of the the National Environmental Science 1872 Cape York Expedition’ Program, Threatened Species Recovery Peter’s presentation will describe Hub. Natasha will talk about mammal William Hanns’ Northern Expedition species that have been reintroduced to that set out to determine the mineral Booderee National Park and what has and agricultural potential of Cape York been learnt so far regarding their ecology Peninsula and the critical role played by and threats to their survival. the indigenous guide. Thursday 10 June Thursday 15 July Dr Alexander Schmidt-Lebuhn ‘How Dr Liz Truswell ‘One small tract of phylogenies inform biocontrol bushland in southwest WA and the research’ fight for its preservation’ Alexander, from CSIRO, will talk about In this talk Liz will outline something evolutionary relationships between of the flora she saw in the region of a Horse-threatened Ranunculus anemoneus - native flora and invasive weed species Karri forest in 2018-2019, and describe the Anenome buttercup. to ensure the safety of biological control Augusta community’s ongoing attempts measures, particularly of daisies, and an to preserve a tract of near-pristine unexpected outcome. Friends Benefits bushland. Thursday 17 June As a Friend you are entitled to: Thursday 22 July Member of Orchid Society. ‘Australia’s Three issues of Fronds a year Check www.friendsanbg.org.au/ Amazing Orchids’ Three hour free parking pass calendar for details The talk will be about what makes Discount at: orchids so exceptional, our local orchids Botanical Bookshop (most items) and growing orchids in Canberra. Thursday 29 July Pollen Linda Groom ‘Threatened alpine spe- Thursday 24 June Jindii Eco Spa cies: an update on the campaign to Leanne Wilkinson ‘Watery Goals and Cool Country Natives in Pialligo save them from feral horses’ Our Way of Life’ Australian Choice, Canberra. Linda, a volunteer with Invasive Species Leanne from the Department of Centre Council’s Reclaim Kosci campaign, will Agriculture, Water and the Environment You also receive: talk about some of the Australian alpine will discuss how the UN Sustainable Advance details of lectures plants threatened by feral horses and development goals affect us and why the Advance bookings for some events how those plants function as natural protection of wetlands is essential to our Discounts on some events water managers. She will also provide an continued well-being. update on recent developments in the ANBG library membership – borrow ‘Reclaim Kosci’ campaign. books, serials, videos, DVDs plus use July of computers and interactive CD Thursday 1 July August ROMs Dr Bob Godfree ‘How Great Historical Thursday 5 August Function facilities – special rates for Droughts have Shaped Australia’ Professor Andrew Cockburn ‘Love Life functions at ANBG Bob, a Senior Research Scientist at CSIRO, of Blue Wrens’ And opportunities to: will talk about his research on the impact Andrew, is an Emeritus Professor at Join Botanical Art Groups of great droughts on Australian people ANU where his research centres on Growing Friends Photographic Group Plant Science Group Assist with Gardens' research projects Become a Guide Relax in the Friends Lounge, Ellis Rowan Building, open to members 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. and with tea & coffee and lots of interesting reading. Tony Brown Tony North Ramshead 24 April 2021 Fronds 97