ANZAC TRIBUTE AT BOTANIC GARDEN

Environment Minister Mark Speakman today joined His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of New South Wales, and servicemen and women past and present at the official opening of the new Anzac Star Bed at Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden.

Mr Speakman said the commemorative flower bed is a replica of one created 100 years ago to honour Anzac soldiers.

“The Anzac Star Bed commemorates the Australians who fought in Gallipoli while two other garden beds pay tribute to many other brave servicemen and women.

“It’s humbling to see 10 Regimental Beds in colour themes to match regimental patches of 30 Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney and Centennial Parklands staff who fought in the Great War.

“In the First World War at least four Garden and Parkland staff were killed in action, while many others returned as invalids and some were awarded military honours.

“Here today are young scientists, horticulturists, volunteers, Garden and Parkland staff who 100 years ago could have also heeded the call to fight for our country.

“Another garden bed, the Victoria Cross Bed, honours all 100 Australians who have been awarded the Victoria Cross, and is designed in the form of the Maltese Cross,” he said.

Mr Speakman said nearly 5,500 plants were used to create the Star Bed and Victoria Cross Bed, while 13,000 plants were used for the Regimental Beds around the Choragic Monument at the Garden.

“The Star Bed was recreated using archival records which accurately detailed the exact types of plants used, the size of the original 1915 Star Bed and where it was in the Garden,” he said.

“Just like in 1915, the 2015 replica displays many cultivars of different pansies and includes Alternanthera and Alyssum.

“The tribute is a credit to all involved. Since the Garden’s Dr Dale Dixon first unearthed the original Star Bed plans in October 2014 he has worked tirelessly alongside horticultural staff, the Garden’s draftperson, painter, design, editorial staff and apprentices who all assisted with the planting.  A donation from Sydney Landscapes of edging around the Star Bed is also very much appreciated.”