Phillips Botanical Gardens is a beautiful little park in Maryborough, featuring an ornamental lake, scenic walking track, picnic tables, and shaded grassy lawns.
A walking track circles the little lake and features educational signs at various points along the way.
As you stroll around the lake you'll pass a wetland area, grassed areas, and many interesting tree species.
There are ducks as well as several other bird species, and growling grass frogs can often be heard.
Picnics at Phillips Gardens
There are several picnic tables set in picturesque locations throughout Phillips Botanical Gardens.
Other visitor facilities include bench seating, rubbish bins, drinking fountain and toilets.
History of Phillips Botanical Gardens
An information sign displays the following text, along with an early 20th century photograph:
Phillips (Botanical) Gardens
A mining dam on the main lead was bought by the Borough Council as a water supply for firemen and horses in 1860. A year later a reserve was added and in 1872 it became a botanical reserve, planned in 1875 and gazetted in 1879.
The name honours Henry Neville Phillips, Town Clerk 1888-1935.
The background of this early twentieth century photograph (south west corner) is Bernado Maffescioni's Bealiba Wood Yard depot established at his premises in 1905. The building dates from 1877.
Feeding the ducks at Phillips Botanical Gardens
Phillips Gardens is a great spot for feeding the ducks with children. Please note that feeding bread to ducks is detrimental to their health, try some of these more appropriate alternatives:
- Corn (canned, frozen or fresh)
- Duck pellets (sold online and at pet stores)
- Lettuce, other greens (torn into small pieces)
- Frozen peas (defrosted)
- Oats (rolled or instant)
- Seeds (including birdseed or other varieties)
GEOLOGICAL MAP OF THE MARYBOROUGH GOLD FIELD, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
Geological map of the Maryborough gold field which shows historical features in superb detail, including reefs, leads, gullies/flats, and old workings. Originally published by the Department of Crown Lands and Survey, early 20th century. High quality, durable A1 print in a satin finish. Large, 594 x 891 mm. Go to online shop.
BBQ
Maryborough
