Cook Shire Council is once again joining gardens across Australia and New Zealand in celebrating Botanic Gardens Week 2025, with a vibrant, weeklong program from 19 to 25 May at the iconic Cooktown Botanic Gardens.
The celebration coincides with the 10th anniversary of Botanic Gardens Day, an initiative led by Botanic Gardens Australia and New Zealand (BGANZ) to raise national awareness about the vital role botanic gardens play in conservation, education, and community wellbeing.
“We’re proud to be part of this national celebration and to showcase the beauty and biodiversity of our very own Cooktown Botanic Gardens,” said Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes. “Botanic Gardens Week is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”
This year’s theme, “Guardians of the Green: Protecting our Future,” invites communities to reflect on their role in caring for the environment while enjoying a fun-filled week of discovery and connection.
Throughout the week, the Gardens will come alive with engaging, family-friendly activities including a Scavenger Hunt, Pot-a-Plant, Colouring-in Competition, guided tours, coffee with the Curator sessions, and the popular Banks and Solander Cruise. Each activity is designed to educate, entertain, and foster a deeper appreciation for our natural world.
The weeklong celebrations will culminate in the popular Botanic Gardens Open Day on Sunday 25 May, from 10am to 3pm—a free, all-ages event featuring giant games, a community cricket match, live music, face painting, kids’ activities, painting workshops, the Roaming Wild Animal Show, scarecrow-making competition, worm farming information stall, and the announcement of the colouring-in and scavenger hunt winners.
“The Open Day is the perfect way to wrap up a week of discovery and inspiration,” said Mayor Robyn Holmes. “It’s a chance for the whole community to come together, enjoy everything the Gardens have to offer, and celebrate the vital role they play in our environment and our lives.”
Whether you are a local resident or visiting the region, Botanic Gardens Week 2025 offers a unique chance to explore one of Queensland’s most treasured public gardens and celebrate its role as a living classroom, conservation sanctuary, and community space.
For a full schedule of events, visit www.cook.qld.gov.au/BGANZWEEK
For more information, interviews and media opportunities, please contact Cook Shire Council via email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au or by phoning 4082 0500.
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