WHEN did you last visit the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens?

With 125 hectares and 25 themed gardens to explore, there is sure to be a garden to suit everyone.

The Eucalyptus Lawn is a great space for a picnic, while the Kookaburra Café is open every day for a snack or coffee.

As you walk around these beautiful Gardens feel free to marvel that there are no paid gardeners!

All the work is done entirely by dedicated teams of volunteers (over 180 of them!) and the Gardens are funded by entry fees and donations.

The following activities are coming to the Gardens during the January school holidays.

A ‘Bugs, Beautiful Bugs’ insect walk will take place on January 7.

‘Nuts About Nature’ craft workshops for kids will be held on January 10 and 17.

A ‘Bonsai for Kids’ workshop will follow on January 19, with a ‘Mosaics Workshop’ on January 21.

Bookings are essential, please phone the Gardens on 4987 1655.

A Treasure Trove Trail is held every day and is free with entry – find all of the hidden animals and win a prize!

Please note that the Gardens will be closed from 23 December to 2 January so the hard-working volunteers can spend time with their families.

Entry to the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens at Heatherbrae is $5 entry or $10 per family.

Stay all day – best value in town!