Strain wilts gardens

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
THE National Rhododendron Gardens in Olinda could become non-existent if it is not recognised for its horticultural value.
The gardens get limited maintenance under the current label as an urban park – and the Australian Rhododendron Society is struggling to keep it thriving.
Society president Michael Hammer is concerned over the future of the gardens if it cannot get the level of maintenance and publicity it needs.
“We want the gardens to be recognised for what it is. If it’s staffed appropriately and run as a garden – that’s great, no matter who runs it,” he said.
There are presently three full-time staff and a handful of society volunteers who help tend to the 40 hectare site.
But Mr Hammer said they feel undervalued when compared to the 35ha Melbourne Botanical Gardens, which has 30 full-time staff.
“These gardens have an international reputation as the largest – and Victoria’s only – cool climate gardens on the eastern seaboard,” he said.
“A lot of people don’t know they exist. They need to be promoted and seen as botanical gardens.”
Mr Hammer said more patronage would raise the pressure to provide better facilities.
He is hoping Parks Victoria’s free entry from 1 July will see more people venture through the gardens.
Yarra Ranges councillor Noel Cliff said the State Government should hang its head in shame.
“They always say the Dandenongs are the jewel in their crown, but the way they treat it is ridiculous,” he said.
“The gardens are supposed to be a centre of excellence with a worldwide reputation, but it seems to be a case of out of sight, out of mind.”
The land was originally offered by former Premier Sir Henry Bolte to develop into botanical gardens in 1959.
However, administration was handed over to Parks Victoria in 1995, instead of the Royal Botanical Garden Board.
A Department of Sustainability and Environment spokesperson said the National Rhododendron Gardens are reserved for the purpose of “ornamental gardens” under the Crown Lands (Reserves) Act 1978.