UNDER a dull sky of grey, the Tamworth Regional Botanic Garden became a hive of activity on Sunday for an inaugural celebration aimed at recruiting green thumbs.
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The first Australia and New Zealand Botanic Garden Open Day saw every such garden simultaneously open for free to the public to educate the public on plant conservation.
But the group behind Tamworth’s 28-hectare oasis, Friends of Tamworth Regional Botanic Garden, said the day was more about recruiting new members to help maintain one of the city’s major tourist attractions.
“Some people don't even know the gardens are up here,” Friends president Doreen Goddard said.
“We need the people of Tamworth to learn more (about the gardens).
“We always need help.”
The celebration aimed to highlight the vital work botanic gardens do for plant conservation.
“We have endangered species here and we can tell people what species grow in Tamworth,” Mrs Goddard said.
“(People should join), because it keeps you very healthy.”
Group treasurer Christine Reeves echoed calls for more people to lend their hands, stressing gardening was not just for older generations.
Tamworth Regional Council’s Steve McAlpine gave guided tours to visitors throughout the day, while the group was on hand to offer advice on all things plants.
Friends of Tamworth Regional Botanic Garden is calling for new members to assist with working bees, guiding visitors, collecting seed and testing, and fundraising.
Call the secretary on 6765 3118.