Entertainment
10 May, 2026
Paronella Park in focus
WITH more than 7500 tropical plants and trees, the beautiful Paronella Park will be the focus of the Friends of the Botanic Gardens’ talk on Wednesday 13 May.
Guest speaker Mark Evans, joint owner/operator of the park with wife Judy, will share the journey of acquiring and caring for the historic gardens created by José Paronella on 5ha beside Mena Creek Falls.
“He built his castle, picnic area by the falls, tennis courts, bridges, a tunnel and wrapped it up in an amazing range of 7500 tropical plants and trees, now a lush rainforest,” Mr Evans said.
“He opened to the public in 1935. Now we carry on his dream.”
Mr Evans will discuss the restoration challenges, sustainable management and the responsibility of “preserving a living legacy while honouring Jose’s vision for future generations”.
Paronella Park has received multiple tourism awards, is state and national heritage listed and is a National Trust-listed property.
The FOBG talks are held the second Wednesday of the month at the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, behind Tank sixty-four café.
No bookings are needed. Tickets are $5 for FOBG members and $10 for non-members. The evening starts with a light supper at 6pm before the 6.30pm talk, followed by a Q&A.
