What is the current name of the botanical gardens located on Alice Street in Brisbane, and what was its previous name?

The botanical gardens located on Alice Street in Brisbane are currently known as the City Botanic Gardens. Previously, they were referred to as the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.

In which specific area of Brisbane are the City Botanic Gardens situated, and what are the surrounding boundaries?

The City Botanic Gardens are situated on Gardens Point within the Brisbane central business district (CBD). They are bordered by the Brisbane River, Alice Street, George Street, Parliament House, and the Queensland University of Technology's Gardens Point campus.

When were the City Botanic Gardens established, and what was their original purpose?

The City Botanic Gardens were established in 1825. Their original purpose was to serve as a farm to supply food crops for the Moreton Bay penal settlement.

What notable collections of plant species can be found within the City Botanic Gardens?

The City Botanic Gardens are home to mature gardens featuring many rare and unusual botanic species. Notably, the Gardens include special collections of cycads, palms, figs, and bamboo.

When was the City Botanic Gardens officially recognized on the Queensland Heritage Register, and what is its historical significance according to this listing?

The City Botanic Gardens were added to the Queensland Heritage Register on February 3, 1997. The register identifies them as the most significant non-Aboriginal cultural landscape in Queensland, highlighting their continuous horticultural history since 1828 and their role as the premier public park and recreational facility for Brisbane since the early 1840s.

Who was responsible for surveying and selecting the site for the current Botanic Gardens in 1828, and in what context did this occur?

Charles Fraser, the NSW Colonial Botanist, surveyed and selected the site for the present-day Botanic Gardens in 1828. This occurred three years after the establishment of the Moreton Bay penal settlement.

What was the initial function of the gardens planted by convicts in 1825?

The gardens planted by convicts in 1825 were intended to grow food crops to sustain the prison colony.

In what year was a section of the land designated as a Botanic Reserve, and who was appointed as its first curator?

A portion of several acres was declared a Botanic Reserve in 1855. In the same year, Walter Hill was appointed as the curator of the Botanic Reserve, serving in this capacity until 1881.

Describe Walter Hill's contributions as curator, including the practical outcomes of his experimental planting program.

Walter Hill implemented an active planting and experimental program. His work involved acclimatizing plants and testing species for commercial value to determine their viability and potential for profit. This experimentation led to the introduction of many new plants to Australia.

Can you list some of the significant plant species introduced to Queensland through Walter Hill's efforts at the Gardens?

Walter Hill introduced numerous plants to Queensland, including mango, pawpaw, ginger, tamarind, mahogany, poinciana, and jacaranda trees. He also introduced plants for agricultural and textile purposes such as tobacco, sugar, grape vines, wheat, tropical fruits, tea, coffee, and spices.

What notable horticultural event took place in 1858 at the Botanic Gardens?

In 1858, Walter Hill planted the world's first cultivated macadamia nut tree at the Botanic Gardens.

How did the City Botanic Gardens play a role in the early development of Queensland's sugar industry?

The Gardens supported the work of sugar pioneer John Buhot, which resulted in the first production of granulated sugar in Queensland in April 1862. A cairn marks the site where the sugar cane was grown.

What was the relationship between the Botanic Gardens and the Queensland Acclimatisation Society?

The Botanic Gardens served as the central hub for propagation and distribution for the Queensland Acclimatisation Society, which was established in 1862.

What is the historical significance of the first jacaranda tree planted in Australia, and where was it planted?

The first jacaranda tree in Australia was planted at the Botanic Gardens in 1864, grown from seedlings brought from an international ship. This planting is credited with popularizing the jacaranda across Brisbane.

How did the size of the Botanic Gardens evolve by 1866, and what was the adjacent area known as Queen's Park used for?

By 1866, the Botanic Gardens had expanded to approximately 27 acres (11 hectares). The adjacent 10-acre (4.0-hectare) strip along Alice Street, known as Queen's Park, functioned as a public park and sporting field.

What significant structures were erected in the Gardens area during the 1860s?

During the 1860s, key structures built in the area included a Superintendent's cottage, a platform for a cannon battery, a stone and iron fence for Queen's Park (using stone from the old gaol), and a drinking fountain.

Describe the Walter Hill Fountain, including its materials and design.

The Walter Hill Fountain, located north of Residence Hill, features a stepped octagonal base and a tapering body. Its drinking fountains and basins are crafted from white marble, contrasting with the freestone used for the main structure.

What major administrative change regarding the Botanic Gardens occurred in 1924?

The City of Brisbane Act in 1924 transferred the management and responsibility of the Botanic Gardens from government departments to the Brisbane City Council. However, the Herbarium remained under the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Stock.

How many times have the City Botanic Gardens been affected by flooding, and what was a significant consequence of these events?

The City Botanic Gardens have experienced flooding nine times between 1870 and 2011 due to their riverside location. As a result of the damage caused by these floods, a new botanic garden was established at Mount Coot-tha.

What has been the primary function of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens since the mid-1970s?

Since the opening of the Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens in the mid-1970s, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens has primarily transitioned into a recreational venue.

What is the historical significance of Harriet the tortoise in connection with the Gardens?

Harriet, a tortoise reportedly collected by Charles Darwin, resided at the Gardens for over a century after being donated in 1860 by John Clements Wickham. She was named in honor of Harry Oakman, a former curator.

What was the zoo located within the Botanic Gardens, and why was it eventually closed?

The zoo at the Botanic Gardens was established by curator Harry Oakman and housed over 400 animal species. It was closed in 1958 due to concerns about animal welfare conditions and unsustainable operational costs.

What is the total area of the City Botanic Gardens, and what are its three main constituent sections?

The City Botanic Gardens cover an area of 20 hectares (49 acres). They comprise three main sections: the former Queen's Park along Alice Street, the Botanic Gardens proper adjacent to the river, and the former Government Domain situated behind the Queensland University of Technology.

Approximately how many plant species are cultivated in the Gardens, and what is the general topography and planting style of the grounds?

The Gardens contain approximately 600 plant species. The grounds are characterized by undulating terrain, bordered by mature shade trees that form avenues and groves, with a mix of formal lawns and mass-planted gardens.

Which specific tree avenues are highlighted within the Gardens, and from what periods do they date?

Notable tree avenues include Bunya Pines planted in the 1850s, Weeping Figs planted in the 1870s, and an avenue of Cook Pines.

Describe the boundary fencing along Alice and George Streets.

The boundary along Alice Street and extending into George Street features a low stone wall constructed in the 1860s, which is topped with an iron railing fence.

Where are the primary entry points to the Gardens, and what architectural style is associated with the former curator's residence?

Large iron gates serve as the main entrances, located at George, Albert, and Edward Streets. The former curator's residence, built around the early 1900s, displays decorative elements characteristic of the Arts and Crafts movement.

What is the current function of the building that formerly served as the curator's residence?

The former curator's residence, which previously housed the City Gardens Cafe, was operating as The Garden Club in 2016.

What recreational facility, developed in the 1980s, is situated south of Residence Hill within the Gardens?

South of Residence Hill lies Riverstage, a grassed amphitheatre constructed in the 1980s, facing a stage positioned alongside the river.

What are the various methods of access available for visitors to reach the City Botanic Gardens?

Visitors can access the City Botanic Gardens by walking along Alice Street, crossing the Goodwill Bridge, or utilizing Brisbane City Council's ferry services and CityCats, which stop at the Gardens Point and Eagle Street wharves.

What are the operating hours for the City Botanic Gardens, and is there nighttime illumination?

The City Botanic Gardens are open 24 hours a day, and their pathways are illuminated at night.

Can you name two specific sculptures that are featured within the City Botanic Gardens?

Two sculptures found within the Gardens are 'Morning Star II' by Jon Barlow Hudson, originally from World Expo 88, and 'Plant form' by Robert Juniper.

According to the Queensland Heritage Register, why are the Gardens historically significant for Queensland's development?

The Gardens are historically significant as Queensland's most important non-Aboriginal cultural landscape, maintaining a continuous horticultural history since 1828 without significant land loss or change in use. They have served as the primary public park and recreational space for Brisbane since the early 1840s.

How do the plant collections in the Gardens represent rare or uncommon aspects of Queensland's heritage?

The Gardens showcase rare heritage through plant collections dating back to the 1850s, many planted by Walter Hill. These specimens are often rare in cultivation or notably mature, and the Gardens have been instrumental in introducing many significant agricultural and ornamental plants to Queensland.

In what ways do the City Botanic Gardens exemplify the key characteristics of a mid-19th century public and botanical garden?

The Gardens exemplify mid-19th century botanical gardens by containing the most extensive mature gardens in Queensland. They feature numerous historic structures, such as the Walter Hill Drinking Fountain and the former curator's residence, alongside significant early engineering works like the drainage system and water supply infrastructure.

What elements contribute to the aesthetic value of the City Botanic Gardens?

The City Botanic Gardens possess aesthetic significance as a prominent Brisbane landmark, offering considerable visual amenity and supporting natural wildlife. They constitute a major green, landscaped area within the city's central business district.

How is the City Botanic Gardens associated with the local community?

The Gardens have hosted numerous important social events and are held in high regard by the local community. They are also a popular destination for tourists visiting Brisbane.

Which former curators are specifically recognized for their significant contributions and association with the Gardens?

The Gardens have a strong association with the pioneering work of curators Walter Hill (serving from 1855 to 1881), Philip John MacMahon (1889 to 1905), John Frederick Bailey (1905 to 1917), and Ernest Walter Bick (1917 to 1939).

What is the historical context and significance of the Walter Hill Drinking Fountain, erected in 1867?

The Walter Hill Drinking Fountain, erected in 1867, is significant as an early piece of public infrastructure, installed just one year after Brisbane received reticulated water supply from the Enoggera reservoir.

What are some of the notable early engineering projects that can be found within the Gardens?

The Gardens contain several historically significant early engineering projects, including the stormwater drainage system (initiated in 1865), the reticulated water supply from Enoggera Dam (1867), and the underground electricity supply for lighting purposes (installed in 1907).

What does the designation 'State Heritage Place' imply for the City Botanic Gardens?

The designation as a State Heritage Place signifies that the City Botanic Gardens are officially recognized for their importance in reflecting Queensland's history, showcasing unique heritage features, embodying the characteristics of historical gardens, possessing aesthetic appeal, holding strong community connections, and being linked to significant historical figures.

What role did John Clements Wickham play in the history of the Gardens, particularly concerning the tortoise Harriet?

John Clements Wickham, who had previously commanded HMS Beagle and served as Government Resident for Moreton Bay, donated Harriet the tortoise to the Gardens in 1860.

What is the purpose of the 'See also' section in the article about the Gardens?

The 'See also' section provides links to related topics, such as the Queensland portal, the Gardening portal, and other parks and gardens in Brisbane, enabling readers to explore further information on related subjects.

What information is typically found in the 'Sources' section of the article?

The 'Sources' section lists the references used to compile the article, including citations for information derived from official sources like the Queensland government heritage registers, books, and websites, ensuring transparency and verifiability.

What kind of resources are provided in the 'External links' section?

The 'External links' section offers direct links to related external resources, such as Wikimedia Commons for multimedia content and the official Brisbane City Council website for the Gardens, providing additional avenues for information.

Beyond the specifically mentioned cycads, palms, figs, and bamboo, what other types of plants are found in the Gardens?

The Gardens house approximately 600 plant species in total. This includes avenues of Bunya Pines and Cook Pines, along with various other rare palms and figs planted in formal arrangements and massed garden beds.

How does the Queensland Heritage Register characterize the continuous horticultural history of the Gardens?

The Queensland Heritage Register describes the Gardens' horticultural history as continuous since 1828, noting that it has occurred without significant loss of land area or alteration of use over that entire period.

What was the historical use of Queen's Park, the 10-acre strip along Alice Street?

Queen's Park, the 10-acre strip along Alice Street, served as a public park and sporting field where regular cricket and football matches were held.

What does the 'Design period: 1824–1841 Convict settlement' entry in the infobox signify for the Gardens?

This entry indicates that the period from 1824 to 1841, corresponding to the Convict settlement era, represents the earliest phase of land use and development associated with the area that would become the Botanic Gardens.

What does the classification 'State Heritage Place' signify for the Brisbane Botanic Gardens?

The classification 'State Heritage Place' signifies that the Brisbane Botanic Gardens are recognized and protected for their significant historical, cultural, aesthetic, and social value to the state of Queensland, based on specific heritage criteria.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Wiki: Brisbane's Living Legacy: An Academic Exploration of the City Botanic Gardens

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Overview

Botanical Significance

The City Botanic Gardens, situated on Alice Street in Brisbane's central business district, stands as a testament to Queensland's rich horticultural history. Established initially as a convict farm in 1825 and formally declared a Botanic Reserve in 1855, it represents the most significant non-Aboriginal cultural landscape in the state. Its continuous horticultural use since 1828, without substantial loss of area or change in function, underscores its enduring importance as Brisbane's premier public park and recreational space.

Strategic Location

Nestled on Gardens Point, the Gardens are strategically bordered by the Brisbane River, Alice Street, George Street, Parliament House, and the Queensland University of Technology's Gardens Point campus. This prime location within the CBD offers a vital green lung and a place of respite amidst the urban environment.

Heritage Designation

Recognizing its profound historical and cultural value, the City Botanic Gardens were inscribed on the Queensland Heritage Register on 3 February 1997. This designation acknowledges its role in demonstrating Queensland's history, preserving rare botanical specimens, showcasing key characteristics of 19th-century gardens, and its strong association with the community and influential figures in horticulture.

Historical Evolution

Early Convict Settlement and Survey

The genesis of the Gardens dates back to 1825 when convicts established a food farm to sustain the Moreton Bay penal settlement. By 1828, Charles Fraser, the NSW Colonial Botanist, surveyed and designated the area for a public garden, laying the groundwork for its future development. The formal declaration as a Botanic Reserve occurred in 1855.

Walter Hill's Pioneering Tenure

Walter Hill's appointment as curator in 1855 marked a transformative era. His active planting and acclimatisation programs introduced numerous species to Australia, including mangoes, pawpaws, and the first cultivated macadamia nut tree. He also fostered the Queensland Acclimatisation Society, making the Gardens a hub for botanical experimentation and introduction, significantly shaping Queensland's flora.

During his tenure until 1881, Walter Hill's experimental approach yielded significant results. Plants with potential commercial value were rigorously tested for viability and growth requirements. His introductions included:

Fruits & Spices: Mango, pawpaw, ginger, tamarind, tropical fruits, spices.
Timber: Mahogany.
Ornamentals: Poinciana, jacaranda (the first in Australia, planted in 1864).
Agricultural: Tobacco, sugar (leading to Queensland's first granulated sugar production in 1862), grape vines, wheat, tea, coffee, textile plants.

The Gardens also served as a propagation and distribution center for the Queensland Acclimatisation Society.

Expansion and Amalgamation

The Gardens underwent significant expansion, reaching approximately 27 acres by 1866. Queen's Park, a 10-acre strip along Alice Street, initially served as a park and sporting field. In 1916, the amalgamation of the original Botanic Gardens, the Domain, and Queen's Park consolidated the area into the present-day Gardens, covering approximately 20 hectares (49 acres).

Transition and Modern Role

Responsibility for the Gardens transferred to the Brisbane City Council in 1924. Following the establishment of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha, in the mid-1970s, the City Botanic Gardens evolved primarily into a recreational venue. Redevelopment in the late 1980s introduced new recreational facilities and restoration efforts, preserving its historical integrity while enhancing its public utility.

Botanical Collections

Mature Specimens and Avenues

The Gardens boast some of Brisbane's most mature trees, including a notable avenue of Bunya Pines (Araucaria bidwillii) planted in the 1850s and an avenue of Weeping Figs (Ficus benjamina) established in the 1870s. These venerable specimens contribute significantly to the landscape's character and historical depth.

Diverse Species

Housing approximately 600 plant species, the Gardens feature specialized collections of cycads, palms, and bamboo. These curated displays highlight botanical diversity and provide educational value, showcasing species that thrive in the subtropical climate.

The early work of curators like Walter Hill was instrumental in introducing a wide array of plants to Queensland, many of which are now common horticultural or agricultural species. These include:

Economic Plants: Mango, pawpaw, ginger, tamarind, tobacco, sugar cane, tea, coffee, and various spices.
Timber Species: Mahogany.
Ornamental Trees: Poinciana and Jacaranda.
Other Notable Flora: The first cultivated Macadamia nut tree in Australia was planted here in 1858.

Key Features & Structures

Walter Hill Fountain

Erected in 1867, this ornate fountain, designed by Colonial Architect Charles Tiffin, stands as a significant historical structure. Crafted from freestone with marble accents, it features lion-head spouts and tiered basins, symbolizing the introduction of reticulated water to Brisbane.

Curator's Residence

The former curator's residence, built around the turn of the 20th century with Arts and Crafts influences, now houses "The Garden Club" cafe. This building, situated on Residence Hill, is surrounded by mature plantings dating back to the Gardens' early days.

Riverstage and Amphitheatre

Located south of Residence Hill, the modern grassed amphitheatre known as Riverstage faces a stage adjacent to the river. This venue, developed in the 1980s, hosts numerous public events and performances, integrating contemporary recreational use with the historic landscape.

Sculptural Elements

The Gardens feature notable sculptures, including Jon Barlow Hudson's *Morning Star II*, originally part of World Expo 88, and Robert Juniper's *Plant form*. These artistic installations enhance the aesthetic appeal and cultural narrative of the space.

Heritage Significance

Queensland Heritage Register Criteria

The City Botanic Gardens is recognized under multiple criteria by the Queensland Heritage Register:

Evolution of History: It is the most significant non-Aboriginal cultural landscape in Queensland, with a continuous horticultural history since 1828, serving as the capital's premier public park.
Rare Aspects: Contains mature plant collections dating to the 1850s and represents important early plant introductions to Queensland.
Principal Characteristics: Exemplifies a mid-19th-century evolving public and botanical garden, featuring extensive mature plantings, historic structures (e.g., Walter Hill Fountain, Curator's residence), and early engineering works (drainage, water supply).
Aesthetic Significance: Serves as a vital Brisbane landmark, offering visual amenity and natural beauty within the central business district.
Social Association: Holds strong community value, having hosted significant social events and remaining a popular destination.
Association with Individuals: Deeply connected to the pioneering work of curators Walter Hill, Philip John MacMahon, John Frederick Bailey, and Ernest Walter Bick.

Access and Facilities

Accessibility

The Gardens are readily accessible via Alice Street and the Goodwill Bridge. Public transport options include Brisbane City Council's ferries and CityCats, with convenient stops at the Gardens Point and Eagle Street wharves. The Gardens are open 24 hours, with pathways illuminated for evening access.

Amenities

Visitors can utilize the Gardens Cycle Hire station located at the Albert Street entrance. Various structures and pathways are dispersed throughout the grounds, facilitating passive recreation and exploration.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not represent the most current or complete information available.

This is not professional advice. The information presented herein should not be considered a substitute for expert consultation regarding history, horticulture, urban planning, or heritage management. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for specific inquiries or applications.

The creators of this content assume no liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

Brisbane's Living Legacy

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🌿 Botanical Significance

📍 Strategic Location

🏛️ Heritage Designation

Historical Evolution 📜

👨‍🌾 Early Convict Settlement and Survey

🔬 Walter Hill's Pioneering Tenure

🏗️ Expansion and Amalgamation

🏛️ Transition and Modern Role

Botanical Collections 🌸

🌳 Mature Specimens and Avenues

🌴 Diverse Species

Key Features & Structures 🏛️

⛲ Walter Hill Fountain

🏡 Curator's Residence

🎭 Riverstage and Amphitheatre

🖼️ Sculptural Elements

Heritage Significance ⭐

📜 Queensland Heritage Register Criteria

Access and Facilities ➡️

🚶 Accessibility

🚲 Amenities

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Botanical Significance

Strategic Location

Heritage Designation

Historical Evolution

Early Convict Settlement and Survey

Walter Hill's Pioneering Tenure

Expansion and Amalgamation

Transition and Modern Role

Botanical Collections

Mature Specimens and Avenues

Diverse Species

Key Features & Structures

Walter Hill Fountain

Curator's Residence

Riverstage and Amphitheatre

Sculptural Elements

Heritage Significance

Queensland Heritage Register Criteria

Access and Facilities

Accessibility

Amenities

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice