With ten per cent of Australia’s flora is already on the endangered species list it is so important for Australians to invest in initiatives like PlantBank, which will work to protect and preserve the nation’s flora and develop our understanding of this state treasure. This world-class research centre will also be part of an international conservation initiative, continuing and building upon the Gardens’ partnership with the global Millennium Seed Bank project, which as been described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘perhaps the most important conservation initiative ever.’

After a decade of planning and steering by the previous RBG Director, Dr Tim Entwisle and his staff at the Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan, including  John Siemon being appointed the PlantBank Project Manager, the PlantBank received NSW Government support and architects and designers were appointed.

John Siemon has continued to update the Garden Clinic on the progress of this internationally acclaimed project.

When Graham Ross officiated at the 21^st celebrations of the Mount Annan Botanic Garden, as it was then known, in 2009 he was greatly impressed at the projects size, architectural design and the planned location adjacent to the endangered Cumberland Plain woodland forest within Mt Annan Gardens.

At that time Graham promised John to “help in any way possible to bring Australia’s most important plant conservation project since settlement to fruition.”

To that end the Ross Family held a Garden Party on 18^th November, 2011 for friends and supporters in association with the dynamic team from the RBG & Trust Foundation to generate funds for the PlantBank. It was a wonderful evening and included a guest appearance and presentation from the recently appointed RBG Chief Executive, Prof. David Mabberley and John Siemon. It was a most successful event.

On Tuesday 10^th January 2012 the Minister for the Environment, the Hon. Robyn Parker joined with Prof. Mabberley, previous directors, current and previous RBG Trust members, RBG Friends, staff and supporters to celebrate the ‘Ground Breaking’ event to commence construction of the PlantBank.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to PlantBank should contact the Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation on (02) 9231 8087 or rbg.foundation@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

Environment Minister, Mrs Robyn Parker with Prof. David  Mabberley, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, Executive Director.