Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville has congratulated the new board members of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, appointed by the Andrews Labor Government.
The seven board members include three new appointments and four women, meeting the Labor Government’s target for 50 per cent of all new board appointments to be female.
The board is responsible for the management of the Melbourne Gardens, the Cranbourne Gardens, the State Botanical Collection (housed within the National Herbarium of Victoria) and the Australian Research Centre for Urban Ecology (ARCUE).
Its key functions are to conserve, protect, manage and improve the botanic gardens, increase public awareness of plants and plant communities, provide for the conservation of biodiversity and manage the use of the botanic gardens for education, public enjoyment and tourism.
The appointees are:
- Kenneth Harrison, Chairperson
- Penelope Fowler, Deputy Chairperson
- Jennifer Wolcott
- Tony Bacic
- Robert Adams
- Jillian Riseley
- Susanne Williamson
The search for a new board began in December and sought candidates with knowledge or expertise in botany or horticulture, business management, financial management or public administration, recreation provision, education or tourism and nature conservation.
The new board’s term began on April 9 and all members will serve for a period of four years.
Ms Neville paid tribute to outgoing board members, thanking them for their service and expertise.
For further information on the gardens, visit .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville
“Our gardens contain thousands of plant species and are a natural treasure that have been enjoyed for more than 170 years. ”
“I’m confident this board will ensure the gardens remain a place for future generations to experience and enjoy.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020