Guided Tour of the Gardens – Griffith University 1

Meeting Point: The Jabreen Lawn, between G19 and G31 at Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus

What to Bring: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water
What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes

Parking: Public transport options are available nearby, though street parking is limited.
Guide: Professor Catherine Pickering

Discover a hidden biodiversity hotspot in the heart of the Gold Coast. Tucked away among lecture theatres and labs, the grounds of Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus now feature more than 10 hectares of native plant exhibition gardens — a living showcase of how native biodiversity can thrive within urban environments.

On this guided walk with Professor Catherine Pickering, you'll explore a remarkable transformation: from lawns and low-diversity plantings to a rich mosaic of more than 230 species of native plants, including over 20 of high conservation value. In fact, as the saying goes, “if it’s not grass, it’s native.”

This walk is not only a deep dive into local biodiversity, but also a hands-on exploration of how native plants can be used creatively in a range of settings—from homes and school gardens to public parks, residential developments, and civic spaces.

Whether you’re a gardener, teacher, student, urban designer, landscape architect, sustainability advocate—or simply someone who loves native flora—this walk will leave you inspired and equipped with practical ideas.

Each participant will receive a complimentary copy of Native Plants for School Gardens in South East Queensland, Griffith University’s illustrated biodiversity guide.