Why is a Masterplan needed?

    A Masterplan is required to identify long term improvements to guide the development and service delivery for this key regional facility. This masterplan maintains and enhances horticulture and plant conservation, environmental education, passive recreation and the heritage of the site.

    What is the vision for Botanic Gardens?

    VISION - The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a Regional Botanic Garden of Excellence meeting the diverse visitor experience expectations of the community at the local level, whilst making a valued contribution at a global level through our work in Horticulture, Plant Conservation and Environmental Education.

    MISSION - The Vision for the Garden will be realised through two commitments by Council and the Garden management and staff:

    • To deliver a beautifully presented contemporary landscape space for the people of the City of Wollongong that provides a diverse recreational benefit whilst respecting the site’s history and its role in supporting broader plant conservation objectives.

    • To continue to be innovative educators promoting an awareness and appreciation for the natural environment, and the greater role plants have in supporting our everyday lives.


    What are some of the projects detailed in the draft Masterplan?

    • Some of the possible future projects include:

    • A major new public entry to the site from Northfields Avenue, incorporating a remodeled operational and administration area to enrich the visitor arrival and orientation experience whilst also providing an active interface with the multiple activities of Botanic Garden (visitor services, administration, depot and nursery, education, The Friends).

    • New Café and toilet facility near the Duck Pond.

    • Café restaurant in refurbished Cratloe Cottage (Discovery Centre educational service to be relocated).

    • Options for increased parking and vehicular circulation along the Paulsgrove Street boundary.

    • Upgraded entry at Murphy’s Avenue carpark.

    • Refurbished Sir Joseph Banks Glasshouse facility as a 50 year anniversary project in 2021.

    • Completion of Stages 2 and 3 of the Rainforest Walk (Stage 1 completed 2018).

    • Gleniffer Brae Functions and parking upgrade.


    Does the Draft Wollongong Botanic Garden Masterplan 2018 provide for the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music's continuation at Gleniffer Brae?

    The Wollongong Conservatorium of Music has a lease at the Gleniffer Brae site until 2023. The draft Masterplan does not determine future lease arrangements on the site. The draft Masterplan includes the option of constructing a new purpose built, fully accessible function centre that would be open to the community for appropriate functions, cultural and artistic activities. This facility has the potential to accommodate the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music including teaching and performances. A new function centre would require the former SCEGGS buildings to be removed.

    There are no building works proposed during the Conservatorium’s current lease period.


    Is a Café proposed for the site?

    A new café and toilet facility is proposed near the Duck Pond, and a future café restaurant in a refurbished Cratloe Cottage (Discovery Centre educational service to be relocated).


    What are the issues, constraints and opportunities of the site?

    A range of issues, constraints and opportunities were identified in the Masterplan process, through site investigations and consultation with staff and key stakeholders. Details of these are presented on pages 11-19 of the draft Wollongong Botanic Garden Masterplan.

    How does the proposed University of Wollongong Voluntary Planning Agreement align with the draft Masterplan?

    The playing of sport is a permissible use on Kooloobong Oval and currently leased to the University of Wollongong. Continuing this use is indicated on the draft Masterplan, along with strengthening it’s botanic setting through additional tree planting and exploring multi-use options.

    How do I find out more about the draft University of Wollongong Voluntary Planning Agreement?

    The draft University of Wollongong Voluntary Planning Proposal is on exhibition until 10 August. More informaiton is available here


    The draft Masterplan shows 'proposed property aquisition', what does this mean?

    The draft Masterplan shows ‘potential acquisition opportunity’ of the properties along Paulsgrove Street which adjoin the Botanic Garden. The eastern edge of the Botanic Garden is the only one without a road frontage. The proposed acquisition of properties along Paulsgrove Street is a long term option being considered.  Another option being considered is an internal road along the eastern boundary. Both options seek to improve circulation and parking at this part of the site. Council is keen to receive feedback from the community on both options.