A new edition of a book detailing the native orchids of the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is doing more than simply documenting what's on offer at the site - it is also fundraising for the not-for-profit eco attraction.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Botanic artist Lynda McPherson has released the second edition of her sold out 2019 book Native Terrestrial Orchids of the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens, which includes four new orchid varieties found at the Heatherbrae-based gardens.
All money raised through book sales goes back to the gardens, which is run on the goodwill of volunteers, fundraising, donations, sponsorship and grants.
"I spend a greater part of my weekly visits on the outer trails of the gardens with a magnifying glass looking for new species," Ms McPherson said.
"The discovery of four new native orchids is pretty special. The discovery was a great opportunity to do a new edition of the book with the new findings."
The new edition contains watercolour paintings of 24 different varieties of orchids that have been discovered on the grounds of the site of the gardens, which covers 130 hectares.
The watercolour paintings are done by Ms McPherson who is also the deputy chair gardens' of the board.
In addition to Ms McPherson's watercolour paintings and photographs of the species she has found at the gardens, the book contains information about each orchid, including detailed descriptions, flowering periods and where within the gardens they can be found.
Information about the Indigenous uses of several of the orchids is also included in the book, such as the Rock Orchid which can be used for a variety of things including as a treatment for burns and blisters.
Ms McPherson has been monitoring orchids within the gardens since 2013.
The book was originally created as part of a Honours project for the Natural History Illustration Degree Ms McPherson obtained from the University of Newcastle.
Many of the orchids detailed in the book can be safely viewed from the designated paths of the gardens.
The book is on sale now from the gardens for $29.95.
Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is seeking volunteers for gardening, grounds maintenance, building maintenance, cafe and catering services, administration and tour guides. Days and hours are negotiable.
The gardens is also calling on local tree loppers and landscapers to donate mulch. The gardens is a convenient drop-off point foe large quantities of mulch from tree work carried out in the community.
Contact the gardens on (02) 4987 1655 or admin@huntergardens.org.au.