National Arboretum Canberra
Devastating bushfires in 2001 and 2003, burnt huge areas around Canberra. A recovery project to heal some of the damage included The National Arboretum, which now covers 250 hectares(618 acres in the old measurement). Although very much in its infancy, with plantings still taking pace, it’s a great place to visit.
The trees selected for inclusion are either of national significance, or endangered. Not only Australian trees, but species from overseas, such as the giant sequoia are included, although these are still saplings. One species in particular caught our attention – the Wollemi Pine which, up until 1994 was only known from fossils. A small stand was discovered in the Wollemi National Park and extensive efforts have ensured its survival. A planting of seedlings at the arboretum is part of that effort.
A large carpark caters to a large number of visitors. However, parking is not free and you pay for a ticket at the machines in the carpark. On arrival, our first stop was the information desk, where we received a map and some ideas of what to see. Within this same area is a café and restaurant where you can look over the trees while you eat.
National Bonsai and Penjing Collection
Located next to the entrance is the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection containing over 100 miniature trees. The quality of the collection and the time that must have been spent growing them is amazing. We walked around admiring the collection and taking photos.
The Discovery Garden
Situated next to the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection, the Discovery Garden explains how to maintain a garden in Canberra’s dry climate.
Margaret Whitlam Pavilion
Overlooking the National Arboretum, the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion offers magnificent views over Canberra. Because it’s only open for functions, we were only able to view it from the outside.
Himalayan Cedar Forest
One of the few areas to avoid devastation in the 2001 and 2003 bushfires was the Himalayan Cedar forest. Originally planted from 1911 to 1930 it has since been extended with additional plantings in 2010. Walking through the mature trees is a relaxing experience, giving an idea of how the remainder of the Arboretum will look as it grows.
Hidden away in the trees just off the path is a metal sculpture of a tree stump.
Forests and Trees
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What a wonderful place to visit. So much to see and do.
Anita
Lot’s to see and do. It will look amazing once the trees grow. Thankyou for reading!
Beautiful Bonsai trees!!
We loved the bonsai and weren’t expecting to see them there, so it was a great surprise
Beautiful!
Yes it was beautiful and will be amazing once the tree grow to maturity
I thought I posted a comment but now I don’t see it! Anyways, I think that the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion is really unique and I love the Backwards man sculpture!
Not a problem. Thanks for reading. The pavilion and statue really are unique.
What a great place to visit. I didn’t know it existed. It is certainly now on the bucket list.
I love the sculptures! They brought a smile to my face. So good.
Pleased that you like it. Certainly worth visiting and the sculptures add that something extra Thankyou for reading
That looks like a cracker of a destination. I must add it to the list when we head south again. Thanks for the inspiration. Mel
It’s a great place to visit and will only get better with time. Thankyou for reading!