The Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens was established in 1974. These beautiful gardens are situated on 6,000-year-old foreshore dunes spanning 26 hectares.
Today the gardens boast established plants of the Wide Bay and Great Sandy regions in a mixture of natural bushland, formal gardens, rain forest, and wetlands.
Walking tracks meander through the gardens, an attractive and educational environment – one in which the science of botany can be interpreted for the benefit and enjoyment of the community.
Botanic Gardens
The Gardens are open daily and admission is free.
Visitors can enjoy the rich, natural ecology of the Botanic Gardens which reflects our close proximity to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island.
Enjoy The Valley with its expansive lush lawns and large shady trees, a lagoon including a fountain in the background, viewing platforms, and the overwater bridge allows visitors a close up look at the vast lagoon wildlife.
You will also find an Australian bush tucker garden to represent the Butchulla people, the original owners of the land, the Bush Chapel is a rustic rainforest site with an adjoining arbor walk that connects to the ceremony set down area for ease of access.
A Chinese inspired formal garden with its tranquil reflective water features and moon gate leading to the secret Zen garden is a must-see and kids can explore the nature play garden.
Visit our Community Nursery on the first Thursday of each month from 9 am to 11 am, located behind the Community Centre.
Orchid House
Situated within the Botanic Gardens, Orchid House was built in 2000 and has vastly grown into an attraction for all ages.
Today the orchid collection has about 5,500 orchids.
The collection includes some of the most popular and unusual plants from the orchidaceous family.
There are two major seasonal displays:
• Late Summer (February, March and April); and
• Spring (August, September, and October).
Orchids and plants are offered for sale throughout the year when available.
Orchid House is ideal for small gatherings with its intimate federation style atrium filled with beautiful flowering orchids and foliage plants all year round. Relax on the deck overlooking the lagoon. Organise a tour or hire for your special occasion.
Entry is free and you are welcome to visit anytime from Mon-Fri 9am – 2.30pm.
Opening hours
Botanic Gardens – Daily 6.30am – 8.30pm – free admission
Orchid House – Monday – Friday 9.00am – 2.30pm – free admission
Community Nursery – Plant sales – open to the public on the first Thursday of each month from 9am to 11am.
Location: Elizabeth Street, Urangan
