Event management opportunity awarded at The Gardens
Local business Gardens Catering has been awarded the commercial operation and management of the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Visitor Events Centre.
Designed by renowned Territory architect Hully Liveris, the Visitor and Event Centre was the first project completed through the NT Government’s $103 million Turbocharging Tourism initiative. It is located in the heart of The Gardens at the bottom of Frangipani Hill on Royal Palm Avenue.
Gardens Catering will manage and operate the Visitor Events Centre, retail area and the outdoor spaces.
The air-conditioned event space can seat up to 120 people. This space is also suitable for workshops and conferences. There is an external deck area that can cater for up to 80 people in a banquet-style setup, and a mini amphitheatre that seats 300.
The Gardens is a popular location for weddings, hosting around 50-60 each year. Other events that have taken place at The Gardens include Darwin Festival events, the Italian Festival and Why Not.
Most events are held during the Dry Season, but the addition of the air-conditioned Visitor and Event Centre means events can now take place year-round.
Quotes from Dr Aggie Wegner, Senior Director Commercial and Community Partnerships, Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security
“Gardens Catering are a well-known local business with an established interest in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.”
“The Gardens is already a popular venue, and offers a variety of outdoor and indoor spaces for functions and events, catering for everyone, from small, intimate groups to events attracting up to 18,000 people.
“We are thrilled to award this contract and look forward to seeing the number of events continue to grow in 2021.”
Quotes by Gardens Catering Director Jason Hanna
“Submitting an EOI was a natural progression for us and will complement our other Garden’s business, Eva’s Cafe.”
“The Gardens is a true community and tourism space with its location on the doorstep of the CBD. I’m excited we can now truly connect all areas to provide a holistic approach to event management at the Gardens and improve the incredible visitor experience.”
Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security Media Manager 0476 844 832
