Our speakers for August are the passionate volunteer founders of the Barton Park Giant Trees Arboretum, Mark Watchorn and Bruce Ryan.
The Barton Park Giant Trees Arboretum began as a grand vision inspired by a visit to a Sequoiadendron giganteum in New Zealand's Queenstown Botanic Gardens. Both lifelong tree enthusiasts, Mark and Bruce returned to Lithgow, Australia, with a dream of creating an arboretum.
After an extensive search for a suitable site, they partnered with Delta Electricity (now Energy Australia), securing a long-term lease that has enabled their dream to flourish.
The Arboretum has grown into a thriving project, with support from dedicated volunteers and leadership from President John Zeni, Vice President Peter Drinkall, Secretary Bruce Ryan, and Treasurer/Giant Trees Coordinator Mark Watchorn.
At our upcoming talk, Mark and Bruce will share the inspiring journey of Barton Park, including how they secured funding, the remarkable trees they've cultivated, and their exciting vision for the future. You'll also learn about the challenges they've faced and how you can visit or get involved.
Date: The fourth Thursday of each month
Venue: The Greens on William, 29 William Street, Bathurst, NSW, 2795
Start time: 5:30 pm for a 6pm talk, then a short Q&A session.
RSVP: Not required, but handy so that the venue knows how many people to expect. RSVP to greeningbathurst@gmail.com
Website: https://www.greendrinks.org/Bathurst
Cost: There will be a $5 entry fee for people who are waged or otherwise able to pay.
The fee covers the cost of the venue and nibbles. For students or those who are less able to pay, a gold coin donation would be appreciated. PLEASE BRING CASH as we do not have an EFTPOS terminal (although the venue does and you can withdraw cash when you buy a drink from the bar). Drinks are pay as you go - available at the bar. There will also be a donations jar for anyone who feels like donating. All donated funds will be used towards travel and accomodation for future speakers.
60 Second Soap Box:
If there is something going on that upsets you, and you want to "name and shame", you can have 60 seconds to jump on the soapbox and proclaim it loud and clear (but please keep it respectful and otherwise appropriate)! Likewise if there is something really good, or an event that you want to publicise - feel free to let everyone know. Just remember - you only have 60 seconds!