The announcement was made at the Association of Friends of Botanic Gardens Inc (AAFFB) Annual General Meeting in Melbourne, Victoria on Friday 5 May 2023.

The Handbury Award is named after the late Geoff Handbury AO, a major benefactor of the AAFBG, and recognises exceptional contributions to an Australian Botanic Garden, Arboretum or Park, by an AAFBG member group or individual from a member group.

Heather, Dianne, and Evelyn were announced as Category One winners – showing long-term dedication to fostering the cause of the Sale Botanic Gardens through volunteering, including writing, promotion, advocacy and education. 

Heather, as President of the Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens was acknowledged for showing outstanding leadership through education and establishment of tour programs and engaging with the community.

Evelyn as Secretary of the Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens was celebrated for maintaining effective administration, communication and correspondence for members and the public. 

Dianne was awarded for being the operational driving force behind promotion of the gardens via social media and networking, enabling the group to reach a wider audience and establish a steady growth of followers. 

The broader Friends of Sale Botanic Gardens volunteer group was awarded a Category Two award, for major contribution and creation of improvement by individuals in a collective volunteer effort.

The Friends was established in 2000 to assist Wellington Shire to re-awaken the Gardens. Two decades later, the group continues to play an active role in promoting the Gardens through monthly guided tours, events and activities and publishing quarterley newsletters.

With strong Council support, the Friends of Sale Botanic Gardens has been pivotal in supporting the revitalisation of the Gardens by replacing trees and restoring plant collections. 

Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye acknowledged the award recipients and the wonderful team working together at the Sale Botanic Gardens. 

“Council would like to congratulate Heather, Dianne, Evelyn and thank all members of the Friends of Sale Botanic Gardens volunteering group for continuing to enrich the lives of everyone who visit the Gardens each and every year," Cr Bye said.

For more information, follow the Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens on Facebook.