Retreat in the heart of the city
Development of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Garden began in 2003 following an extensive campaign by the Friends of Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens for a Botanic Garden on the Gold Coast. A master plan was completed in 2002, following extensive community consultation, with the central theme of a Mountains to Mangroves Trail, showcasing the unique and diverse ecosystems of South East Queensland.
Since 2003, the Friends and the community have planted over 20,000 plants along the Mountains to Mangroves Trail. In 2006, Rotary International sponsored the creation of a Sensory Garden for people with disabilities, and in 2009 the Friends Centre opened, becoming a hub for visitor information, educational workshops and activities.