New entrance signs now flag the Gardens' main entries and exits. The signs welcome visitors to the Gardens and outline their historical significance as a major pillar on which Sale sought to establish itself as Gippsland's "capital" town.
The signs' reverse detail the Gardens' history, including their beginnings in 1860, the original curator's cottage, early plantings, famous advisors, an acknowledgement the Gardens' were built on Gunaikurnai land, and the history of the gates and Lake Guthridge. The sign also explains the decline of the gardens, and their recent revitalisation.
As well as the new signs, the main entry has also had a facelift to match in with the recently completed Summer Walk entrances. A crazy paving threshold was installed by Liz Filmer Landscaping, and new 'Sale Botanic Gardens' signage was also hung on the Guthridge Parade main entrance gate. The yellow of the lettering ties in with the popular Garden for Life spinning chairs.
The ornate brick gateposts found at the entrances were designed to replicate the chimney of the now demolished curator's cottage. The striking metal fence, designed by Vic Catenacci, is enhanced by the Eucalyptus Sculpture was designed by Annemieke Mein and sculpted by Jim Lawrence.
Liz Filmer Landscaping will be back soon to complete the second entrance, then there will be some follow up work on the gravel paths to bring the paths back up to life.