Royal Botanical Gardens celebrates the opening of David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden

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1 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Royal Botanical Gardens celebrates the opening of David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden Hamilton ON, April 29, 2016 Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) announced today, the official opening of the David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden. Following a $20 million Rock Garden Rejuvenation Project, the garden can now be enjoyed through registered tours between April 30 th and May 18 th and will open to the public on May 20 th. After more than 80 years, the time had come to bring the Rock Garden back to the forefront of our community, said RBG CEO Mark Runciman. The David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden retains the historic charm that generations of visitors have cherished, but has truly become a garden for the 21 st century, one that embraces environmentally friendly trends in garden design and management while respecting its heritage setting. We are grateful to the Federal and Provincial governments, along with lead donors David Braley and Nancy Gordon, for helping to make this dream a reality. The Rock Garden Rejuvenation Project began with a $14 million commitment from the Federal ($7 million) and Ontario ($7million) Governments and provided the garden with major upgrades in infrastructure, accessibility and landscape design. The three-year project allowed RBG to improve the garden s structural integrity, water and sewage systems, visitor accessibility, and architectural landscape. In addition, a new visitor centre will serve as a year round destination for business and private functions, new lighting and sound systems extend the garden s operating hours and new horticultural highlights will provide visitors with an experience throughout the entire growing season. Ontario s world-class attractions, like Royal Botanical Gardens, play a vital role in the province s economic and cultural prosperity, said Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. I m proud that our government supported the rejuvenation of this renowned attraction that will continue to boost economic activity and drive tourism in the region. RBG has a number of programs and events planned to celebrate the garden s opening. Luna, a grand opening gala taking place on May 19 will feature live cultural performances from local musicians and performance artists, cuisine featuring celebrated local chefs, and an inspiring light show. Completed in 1932, the Rock Garden is a gateway to the cities of Hamilton and Burlington, and considered by many to be the birthplace of Royal Botanical Gardens. RBG encompasses 1,090 hectares (2,700 acres) of horticultural, environmental and historical significance, is a National Historic Site and registered charitable organization with a mandate to bring people together with plants and nature. For more information, please contact: Nick Kondrat Manager, Communications Royal Botanical Gardens ext. 223 nkondrat@rbg.ca -30-

2 Backgrounder RBG and the New Rock Garden Royal Botanical Gardens mission is to dedicate our expertise in horticulture, conservation, science and education together with our unique gardens, facilities and natural lands to inspire and nurture society s commitment to the environment. Like other public gardens around the world, we are embracing the changes needed to respond to the challenges of climate change. The new Rock Garden reflects this forward-facing approach. It is truly a garden for the 21 st century, one that embraces sustainable trends in garden design and management while respecting the integrity of its heritage setting. It incorporates a best practices approach to plant selection, design and management, including pollinator-friendly plants, species native to Ontario, and a broad representation of drought-tolerant perennials that provide wide sweeps of colour and texture through the seasons. The new Rock Garden allows RBG to do more with less less water, less upheaval of the soil, and less humanpower, plant waste and carbon emissions spent on seasonal change-outs of over 150,000 bulbs and annuals. It also allows us to do more, with new infrastructure that allows people to experience this much-loved garden in a new way with new events, year-round, day and night. And, it provides ideas and inspiration for gardeners to take home and incorporate into their own gardens, at a time when everyone s garden can play a role in helping to make our communities more sustainable.

They come to be rejuvenated, they come to connect with nature, themselves and others, and they come to be inspired. One such place is the historic Rock Garden.

3 David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden The time has come! We are excited to present Canada s premier garden experience! For thousands of years people have been drawn to gardens and places of natural beauty. They come to be rejuvenated, they come to connect with nature, themselves and others, and they come to be inspired. One such place is the historic Rock Garden. An iconic fixture in your community, connecting the cities of Burlington and Hamilton and the birthplace of Royal Botanical Gardens, Rock Garden was the concept of RBG founder Thomas Baker McQuesten who envisioned a grand entranceway to City of Hamilton. From that vision, an unassuming, abandoned gravel pit was transformed into one of Canada s most cherished gardens. The Depression-era project began on November 3, 1929, under the direction of architect Carl Borgstrom. 10,000 tonnes of limestone quarried from Red Hill Valley and surrounding areas were brought, rock by rock, and used to construct a majestic bowl a landscape design that would make the garden one-of-a-kind. By the end of 1931, construction was complete, an enormous feat for a project of such magnitude. The beloved Rock Garden was born. The first spring plantings in 1932 included approximately 45,000 perennial plants the goal was to create an always memorable experience. And memories were made, over 80 years of them. For many, Rock Garden provided the first opportunity to connect with plants, gardens and the outdoors. It fostered a lifelong appreciation for nature that has spanned generations. Sunday outings, first dates, engagements, weddings, times of happiness, grief, silence and reflection this old garden had seen them all and been a home to countless beginnings, middles and ends. But along with this great history and these memories came age time was catching up with this treasured garden. The design of Rock Garden had not changed since Significant improvements were needed in infrastructure, features and accessibility. That opportunity finally arrived in 2012 and Royal Botanical Gardens embarked on the single largest capital project in its 80-year history, the rejuvenation of its famous Rock Garden. We are proud to present our new garden, respecting its heritage, look and feel while celebrating the beginning of a new era with a beautiful, modern renovation. It started with a commitment from the federal and provincial governments and it grew through the support of donors and the community. Through your support, the rejuvenated David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden features new paths with gentle grades making it more accessible to all guests, a visitor experience that extends throughout the entire growing season and beyond, upgraded lighting and sound allowing extended hours and enhancing special events, and more green space with which to further enrich RBG s programming.

New Plants Approximately 42,000 plants were installed during rejuvenation representing: 90+ plant families 240+ genera * 670+ taxa ** 700+ accessions *** Existing Plants Approximately 20,000 plants

* subdivisions within plant families ** unique types of plants *** plant records within RBG s collection By the Numbers Area of new Rock Garden visitor centre: 9,074 square feet Height: 7.

4 New Plants Approximately 42,000 plants were installed during rejuvenation representing: 90+ plant families 240+ genera * 670+ taxa ** 700+ accessions *** Existing Plants Approximately 20,000 plants remain from the original garden representing: 50+ plant families 200+ genera * 600+ taxa ** 700+ accessions *** 39 accessions remain from the first year of RBG records (1930). * subdivisions within plant families ** unique types of plants *** plant records within RBG s collection By the Numbers Area of new Rock Garden visitor centre: 9,074 square feet Height: 7.96 metres (26 feet) to top of leaf roof Multipurpose room capacity: Approximately 120 seats Cafe capacity: 48 seats and outside terrace Stone needed for building: 500 tons of limestone from Ebel Quarries, Wiarton, Ontario Timber used in roof: 26 individually sized ribs of glue laminated Douglas fir fabricated by Timber Systems in British Columbia Total number of individual plants in garden: 143,800 Species of plants in garden: 2,411

The centre also features a look-out deck and patio that provides guests with an optimal view of the garden s lower bowl.

5 Visitor Centre The garden finally has a state-of-the art facility to welcome its visitors. The centre operates as the new main entrance and houses a fully operational restaurant and conference facility that accommodates up to 130 people for weddings, corporate and private functions. The centre also features a look-out deck and patio that provides guests with an optimal view of the garden s lower bowl. Dalglish Family Foundation Courtyard Just outside the visitor centre, this elegant space serves as both a welcoming point for guests making their way outdoors and a venue for social occasions and gatherings. Alpine plants representing true rock garden vegetation grow from beautiful stone walls, and gentle waterfalls create an ideal atmosphere for cocktail receptions and special events. Water Features Always a popular feature of the garden s lower bowl, water features have been enhanced to create synergy with surrounding vegetation, meandering throughout the garden landscape and captivating the senses. Few people have experienced Rock Garden at night, and the addition of illuminated waterfalls and spigots make for a truly remarkable, purely tranquil experience. Garden Areas The gardens, designed by Janet Rosenberg & Studio Inc., uses bold drifts of herbaceous perennials and grasses, chosen as much for their structure and texture as they are for their flower colour. This sustainable design style has environmental benefits, requiring less replanting and soil disturbance. Garden House Construction of the 1962 Tea House was the only major renovation in the garden s 80-plus year history. Newly dubbed Garden House, it now serves as a multi-purpose facility featuring archival displays that celebrate Royal Botanical Gardens rich heritage. Drop by and experience Wish You Were Here a display of old Rock Garden postcards from our archives. Grand Opening Schedule Between April 30 and May 18, enjoy access to this stunning garden by registering for one of our guided walking tours or by purchasing a ticket to Luna, our grand opening gala. Guided Tours April 30 to May 18 Join us for a guided walking tour to coincide with the start of the spring bloom season and to celebrate this momentous occasion. Tour tickets must be purchased in advance online or on-site at RBG Centre. Luna Grand Opening Gala Thursday, May 19, 6 to 10 p.m. Spend an evening in the land of Luna celebrating spring s triumph at the new David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden. See back cover. Official Opening Day May 20 Regular admission applies

site, is noted for its ecological productivity.

Site for significance in the War of 1812 1929 Wilson, Bunnell and Borstrom win

week after the onset of the Great Depression 1931 December 19, construction

agency 1950 Rock Garden becomes known as Hamilton s Famous Rock Garden and a

1970 Early in the decade, York Boulevard was re-aligned which necessitated the

to the west side of the bowl 1988 Royal Botanical Gardens included in the inventory

National Historic Site of Canada 2002 City of Hamilton designates Rock Garden as

6 Rock Garden, 1930s A brief History T.B. McQuesten Rock Garden, Cootes Paradise, which lies west of the Rock Garden site, is noted for its ecological productivity. Officially designated as a game sanctuary 1927 City of Hamilton s Board of Park Management under the leadership of T.B. McQuesten, acquires the property 1929 Burlington Heights named a National Historic Site for significance in the War of Wilson, Bunnell and Borstrom win contract to design grand entrance to Hamilton 1929 November 3, construction begins a week after the onset of the Great Depression 1931 December 19, construction completed 1941 Province of Ontario passes Act creating Royal Botanical Gardens as an agency 1950 Rock Garden becomes known as Hamilton s Famous Rock Garden and a favourite among visitors 1962 July 5, official opening of Rock Garden s Tea House 1970 Early in the decade, York Boulevard was re-aligned which necessitated the creation of a new pedestrian link to access the garden 1976 Lookout area was added to the west side of the bowl 1988 Royal Botanical Gardens included in the inventory of Cultural Heritage Landscapes 1993 Royal Botanical Gardens designated as a National Historic Site of Canada 2002 City of Hamilton designates Rock Garden as property of historical and architectural value 2005 Royal Botanical Gardens identified as a scheduled agency under the Ontario Heritage Act 2013 Rock Garden officially closes for rejuvenation project 2016 With your support, the new Rock Garden is unveiled

winemakers and chefs: dan Megna Twisted Lemon Restaurant, Lake Road Restaurant Jonny Blonde Jonny Blonde Kitchen Matt Johnny The Mule Paddy Townsend Rapscallion Rogue Eatery

7 David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden Grand Opening Gala Thursday, May 19 6 to 10 p.m. presented by Live cultural performances by local musicians, fire artists, magicians and acrobats An inspiring light show Gastronomic delight by local artisans, brewers, winemakers and chefs: dan Megna Twisted Lemon Restaurant, Lake Road Restaurant Jonny Blonde Jonny Blonde Kitchen Matt Johnny The Mule Paddy Townsend Rapscallion Rogue Eatery Brandon Ashby West Plains Bistro Ken LeFebour Nellie James Too and introducing RBG s new executive chef, Stephanie Brewster Tickets: Light Show Presented by Graham Munro Charitable Foundation Culinary Sponsor Entertainment Sponsors Event Sponsors

8 Luna Grand Opening Gala Thursday, May 19; 6 to 10 p.m.; Rock Garden Gala celebrating the grand opening of Rock Garden. Visit Garden Clubs of Ontario Triennial Flower Show June 15 and 16; RBG Centre the gardens For more information, updates and details, visit Biodiversity Celebration May 21 and 22; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Arboretum There is no better place to celebrate the diversity of life than Royal Botanical Gardens, Canada s Biodiversity Hotspot! Join us for two days of exploration and hands-on fun with local animals, plants, and ecosystems. Moonlight Series May 7, 28, June 11, July 9 Visit History of RBG s Rock Garden Thursday, May 26; 7 to 8:30 p.m.; RBG Centre Visit Celebrate Lilacs! May/June; Arboretum Your senses will be overwhelmed by the spectacle of 800 varieties of these scented shrubs. Stroll along the beautiful Lilac Walk and spread out a picnic blanket at the bottom of Lilac Dell for total relaxation. Learn about everything in bloom at the Discovery Cart each day. Celebrate Iris and Peonies! Early June; Laking Garden Take in the mesmerizing colour combinations. Explore the peony collection, perennial borders and the hosta walk. Celebrate Roses! June/July; Hendrie Park Enjoy RBG s two acres of fragrant roses in bloom in colours ranging from pure white, cream, buff, yellows, apricots, oranges, pinks, corals and reds. Activities for kids, garden tours and more. Art Blooms Friday to Sunday, June 17 to 19; Hendrie Park New installations in The International Sculpture Collection. Considered the best floral design exhibition in Canada, the Triennial Flower Show, hosted by Garden Clubs of Ontario must not be missed. This year s title Art Through the Ages: a Floral Journey. Garden Music Nights 6 to 8:30 p.m.; Hendrie Park Country and Roots Tuesdays, June 28 to August 16 Red-Hot Jazz and Cool Blues Wednesdays, June 15 to September 7 Rain or shine. Visit for schedule updates, lineups and online ticket purchases. The Royal Quest July 9 and 10; Arboretum The Royal Couple needs your help! Grab your map and embark on a quest of epic proportions. This quest is full of family-fun physical obstacles and problem-solving challenges created to test mental and physical skills. Are you up for the challenge? The Quest is fun for all ages. Children under 8 years must be accompanied by an adult. The Enchanted Garden July 30 to August 1; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Hendrie Park Calling all gnomes, fairies, pixies and sprites. Make your way to Royal Botanical Gardens where a touch of magic awaits you... Shakespeare at Rock Garden August 10 to August 21; Rock Garden A Midsummer Night s Dream, Shakespeare s most famous comedy, fast asleep. Spurred on by their amorous and ambitious dreams, aspiring actors, lovers, and fairies meet in the woods of their sleeping minds in this highly physical adaptation of the classic play. Presented by Tottering Biped Theatre.

1 km drive along Plains Rd. West or Spring Garden Rd.

1 km drive along Plains Rd. West or Spring Garden Rd. visitor Guide Location address travel distance from rbg centre rbg centre 80 Plains Rd. W. Burlington, ON RBG Centre is the main entrance Plains Rd. W. Burlington, ON Across Plains Road, walking access