CONSTRUCTION has begun on an upgrade to the caf\u00e9 in the Tea House building at the Geelong Botanic Gardens, aiming to offer customers a more enjoyable dining experience with a new covered verandah.<\/p>\n
Funded by the federal government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, the extension received planning approval from Heritage Victoria.<\/p>\n
The Geelong Botanic Gardens and Eastern Park are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register due to their state significance.<\/p>\n
Before plans were submitted, an X-ray survey of the ground was conducted to ensure the new structure would not disturb the tree root systems.<\/p>\n
The caf\u00e9, known as WYM (Where You Meet), is located centrally in the gardens, providing a pleasant spot for friends and family to gather over coffee and lunch.<\/p>\n
Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan encouraged residents to visit the gardens and the caf\u00e9. “The Geelong Botanic Gardens is one of the region’s most beautiful green spaces and I encourage everyone to explore the trails and enjoy a visit to the caf\u00e9,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Eastern Park and the Botanic Gardens have significant historical importance for the state of Victoria.”<\/p>\n
“The new caf\u00e9 verandah will provide covered outdoor seating for customers, making WYM an even more enjoyable place to meet and relax in the gardens.”<\/p>\n
Local firm TRAK Constructions is carrying out the project.<\/p>\n
The Geelong Botanic Gardens, spanning 3.6 hectares, feature a mix of mature 19th-century tree plantings, rare exotic species, and newer additions. As Australia’s fourth-oldest botanic garden, it houses some of the finest tree specimens in Victoria, many listed on the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Register of Significant Trees.<\/p>\n
Cr Eddy Kontelj, chair of the Active Spaces portfolio, highlighted the gardens’ evolution and their broad appeal.<\/p>\n
“The gardens have evolved and developed over time and offer something for everyone to enjoy,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Free guided tours from The Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens are available to take you through the gardens’ rich history, including original heritage buildings and significant tree collections.”<\/p>\n
“It serves as a vital green space for the community, offering a peaceful environment to explore and learn about botanical history and conservation.”<\/p>\n
The Geelong Botanic Gardens is open daily from 8am to 5pm (8am to 7pm during Daylight Savings hours) with free entry.<\/p>\n
The WYM caf\u00e9 will maintain regular hours throughout the construction.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CONSTRUCTION has begun on an upgrade to the caf\u00e9 in the Tea House building at the Geelong Botanic Gardens, aiming to offer customers a more enjoyable dining experience with a new covered verandah. Funded by the federal government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, the extension received planning approval from Heritage Victoria. The Geelong Botanic […]<\/p>\n