Interpretive Shelter, Queens Park Botanic Gardens

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For the town-proud, the Interpretive Shelter is a stroll down memory lane and it's the latest addition to the Queens Park Botanic Gardens. The structure is a reminder of the former site of the historic Queens Park Conservatory/Hothouse, 1909 to 1950s. Its original site was confirmed by an archaeological dig conducted by the University of Southern Queensland.



The Interpretive Shelter will provide information and shade for visitors. Its lightweight design includes features reminiscent of times past used in the old conservatory. Within is housed interpretive panels bearing photographs, text and artefacts describing the long and proud history of Queens Park. Visitors will tread upon the original footings of the conservatory. Plantings provide a sub-tropical feel.



A sampling of information inside the shelter includes a range of structures that have existed in the park including the conservatory, going back to the 1800s. With a picture of the old conservatory, the text explains how a historic hothouse was heated. Discover the story behind the Alfred Thomas Memorial of 1885 and the wrought-iron muzzle cannon that children love to climb on. Significant trees, avenues and gardens are listed, including the London plane tree, the English oak, the Cypress pine, hollyhock and the poisonous digitalis. There is a mention of the charming treed avenues of the park. Artefacts from the 2015 archaeological dig and botanical samples are housed in the shelter.

The Interpretive Shelter project began in March 2020 to form part of the upgrade to Queens Park. Toowoomba Regional Council has done a marvellous job preserving Queens Park's cultural heritage values in this attractive addition to Toowoomba's beautiful Botanic Gardens.



With the 71st Carnival of Flowers coming up, the Interpretive Shelter also provides an opportunity to find out events listings and how to purchase merchandise. From 18-27 September, the Toowoomba Regional Council's expert gardening team will be available to answer questions in the Gardens Lounge.

The Interpretive Shelter is a resting place with a relaxed atmosphere on the north side of the Queens Park Botanic Gardens. It's also wheelchair-friendly. Further information on the upgrades to the park.



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