FITZROY GARDENS CONSERVATORY

One of Melbourne's favourite tourist attractions, the Conservatory opened on the 13th of March 1930, and has a history of over 70 years of providing spectacular floral displays. The Building copies the Spanish mission architectural style, measuring 30 x 15 metres and originally costing 4,000 pounds. The Conservatory is a vital part of the City's commitment to excellence in horticulture.

There are five separate displays each year. It is used by tourists, schools, families and anyone who wants to capture a moment of floral beauty.
Display 1 - Hydrangea / Fuchsia: November - February
Display 2 - Tuberous Begonia / Gloxinia: February - April
Display 3 - Tropical / Poinsettia: April - July
Display 4 - Cineraria / Cyclamen: July - September
Display 5 - Schizanthus / Calceolaria: September - November

Also in the conservatory are two memorials. One dedicated to Mary Gilbert, the first migrant woman settler in the Port Phillip settlement that was to become Melbourne. A statue by Ailsa O'Connor adds to the tribute. However, for me even more poignant is a simple plaque that commemorates Wilma Saunders, Conservatory Attendant and Fitzroy Gardens Tour Guide between 1999 and 2009...

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme,
and also part of the Friday Greens meme.