Botanical Guardian testimonials

Meet some of our Botanical Guardians and discover ways your support could assist the Botanic Gardens of Sydney.

Susanne de Ferranti

For Susanne de Ferranti, the Botanic Gardens represents more than just a beautiful space, they symbolise her deep connection to family, nature and legacy. From a young age, her parents would take her bushwalking, often through the Blue Mountains, her mother an avid gardener and her father with a unique link to Mount Tomah. But it’s her brother who remains her biggest inspiration. A dedicated volunteer at the Botanic Gardens for 20 years.

“Including the Botanic Gardens in my bequest felt like a meaningful way to be a part of their future” Susanne says.

She hopes her gift will contribute to the efforts of supporting the Gardens’ vital role in conservation, scientific discovery and education so that future generations can continue to learn from and benefit from this work.

“When I visited the PlantBank at Mount Annan, I was amazed by the conservation efforts, cultural plant identification projects and groundbreaking genomics research - these initiatives are essential for protecting and preserving plant species for future generations.”

Suzanne hopes that the Botanic Gardens can give the same ‘wonder and inspiration’ she has felt, to future generations. “A place of beauty, peace and reflection – an oasis in the heart of an increasingly busy city.”

Jenny Crivelli

“ It’s wonderful to see people of all ages connect with nature in the heart of the city”

A long-time visitor to the Royal Botanic Garden, supporter Jenny Crivelli has chosen to leave a bequest to help protect the Gardens in the future. Over the years, the Gardens have become a place she returns to for their quiet beauty, connection to the city, and historical significance. One of her favourite areas is the Mare and Foal Lawn, a peaceful spot close to the water’s edge.

In leaving a bequest, she hopes to help maintain the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney as a beautiful and accessible space for everyone. Just as important to her, she hopes her gift will support the vital research of the Australian Institute of Botanical Science. Their work is essential for preserving plant life and deepening our understanding of biodiversity and conservation.

“As Sydney grows, these spaces will become even more valuable, providing a beautiful sanctuary for residents, city workers and tourists. My gift will help protect this legacy, ensuring the Gardens continue to inspire and educate future generations.”

Her gift will support the Gardens’ ongoing work and ensure they remain a place that everyone can discover and enjoy for many years to come.

Paul Trunoff

“Volunteering at the Botanic Gardens Sydney made me feel like I was helping sustain something truly valuable.”

After more than a decade of involvement with Foundation & Friends, Paul has seen the impact of community support firsthand. His experience as a volunteer at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney gave him a clear sense of purpose and connection.

“The Botanic Gardens are more than just a beautiful space - they’re a living legacy of knowledge, conservation and connection. Leaving a bequest felt like the right way to give back to something that has given me so much.”

Paul has seen firsthand how donations make a real, lasting impact. His gift will support a range of important initiatives.

“I know my gift will directly support vital projects, from conservation efforts to nurturing future horticulturists. It’s comforting to know that, even after I’m gone, I’ll help ensure the Gardens continue to thrive and inspire.”

By spending time in the Gardens, Paul recognises how much joy they can bring, and how truly special they are. By leaving a bequest he’s helping to make sure future generations can enjoy the same sense of wonder and purpose that he found there.

Rebecca Oyomopito

For Rebecca, plants have always been both fascinating and beautiful. But her appreciation goes beyond aesthetics. She recognises their essential role in the world, from medicine to the resources we rely on every day.

The Botanic Gardens holds a unique place in her heart. “While walking in the Gardens, I feel that I am among friends and experience a shared resonance. It truly cleanses my spirit and leaves me at peace.” She admires the incredible diversity and wonder of international species, maintained in pristine conditions, in symbiotic arrangement.

As a scientist and an educator, Rebecca values the Gardens’ high-quality research into plant sustainability and conservation. Her bequest is a way to help support important work and contribute to practices that may help maintain the natural world.

“The Botanic Gardens are a place where beauty, science, and conservation come together to inspire future generations. As a scientist, I wanted my contribution to support sustainability, plant research and education. My bequest is an investment in the Gardens’, and the planet’s, future - ensuring that young minds gain the knowledge to care for the environment and that these extraordinary spaces continue to thrive.”

For Rebecca, sustainability, innovation and environmental education are key. Through her gift, she hopes to empower the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the environmental challenges ahead.

“I hope future visitors take the time to truly connect with nature. Walking through the Botanic Gardens is a restorative experience that engages all the senses. There is something deeply uplifting about pausing, breathing in the fresh air and being present in the beauty of the natural world."