THE HON STEPHEN JONES MP

ASSISTANT TREASURER

MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES

MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

Member for Whitlam, Stephen Jones has turned the first sod at the site of the new Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens Education Centre in Bowral, marking the beginning of construction.

The Albanese Government has committed $500,000 towards the local project. The commitment was not matched by the Liberals and Nationals.

At today’s sod turning celebration, Mr Jones inspected the site and met with local volunteers to discuss the benefits of the Centre, including increased tourism and visitation of the Botanic Gardens.

Once complete, the new $792,000 Education Centre will feature:

• An education room;
• Kitchenette.
• Clock tower.
• Landscaping.
• Accessible pathways.
• Solar panels.
• Air conditioning.
• AV equipment.
• NBN Co connection.
• Storerooms.

When built, the new Education Centre will serve as a learning centre for local school excursions and other groups. The premises will also be used to educate youth about native flora and fauna in the Southern Highlands, and how to care for Australia’s environment. 

Quotes attributable to Stephen Jones, Member for Whitlam:

“There’s been a lot of community support for this project, and I am pleased construction is now getting underway.”

“This new Education Centre will be a major tourist draw card for the Southern Highlands, and after speaking with local volunteers today, they are excited for an increased volume of tourists to the Botanic Gardens and surrounds.”