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The Palmetum is a botanical garden featuring one
family of plants, the palms. The collection contain all six subfamilies
within the family Arecaceae. Approximately 60 species of palms
are native to Australia; most are represented. The collection
contains about 300 species; many rare and threatened in their
natural habitat.
A visit to the Townsville Palmetum is proof of community
energy. A Bicentennial Project, this internationally recognised
attraction was supported and planned by the Townsville community
and organised through the Townsville City Council Parks Services.
Opened in September 1988, the Palmetum has continually
expanded as new palm varieties and scenic walks are added. Tumbetin
Lodge is an example of local heritage architecture. Any visitor
would agree that the Palmetum is an exotic and attractive feature
of our city, and a significant botanic achievement.
Palmetum Aerial View
Click to enlarge |
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The Palmetum covers almost 17 hectares. It has a
range of habitats to suit flora originating from the dry topics
through to the wet tropical lowlands. In addition to the recreated
habitat types, there are expansive lawns and water features frequented
by numerous bird species. The changing face of the developing
Palmetum allows visitors to return year after year and still be
delighted with the seasonal changes that continue to occur.
 THE
HISTORY
Townsville Palmetum, situated on 25 hectares of land
bequeathed to the Townsville City Council, is an attractive
botanical garden featuring the palm family.
Large mango trees that shade the rainforest walk
are remnants of the areas earlier use as a mango orchard and dairy
farm.
The garden’s design utilises the areas existing
habitats and landforms to create distinct climatic habitats to
suit plants from the dry tropics through to wet tropical lowlands.
The Palmetum was officially opened in September
1988 as a Bicentennial project. Today the collection contains
300 species; many rare and threatened and includes most Australian
palms. A Birds of the Palmetum brochure is available in the foyer
of Tumbetin Lodge.
- Townsville’s Japanese sister city Tokuyama funded
the initial development of the Licuala Walk and Tokuyama Garden,
completed in 1996.
- The Blackhawk Memorial, completed in 1997, is dedicated
to the soldiers who lost their lives in a training exercise
accident at High Range Training Area.
- Tumbetin Lodge was built in 1934 in Railway Estate for the
Roman Catholic Church. It was, until 1975, used as the St
Francis Xavier School. In 1993 it was relocated to its current
site. It is constructed predominately of Australian silky
oak. Public facilities include public conveniences, information,
selected art exhibitions, meeting rooms and The Palmetum Restaurant
and Tea Rooms.
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Map of the PALMETUM
Palmetum Map
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FACILITIES
| Shade Shelters |
3 |
| Rubbish Bins |
4 |
| Seating |
15 |
| Picnic Tables |
4 |
| Drinking Fountain |
1 |
| Water Taps |
1 |
| Picnic facilities |
Yes |
| Caravan parking area |
Yes |
| Tumbetin Lodge – café, public
toilet and telephone |
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How
to Get There
Travelling South along Nathan Street cross the Ross
River. The entrance is located 300m on the left. Located in the
suburb of Douglas.
Open
Hours
The gardens are open seven days a week from sunrise
to sunset.
For more information
about the Palmetum contact Parks Services, Townsville City Council.
PARK BOOKINGS FOR PRIVATE EVENTS, CEREMONIES
AND/OR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION MUST BE MADE THROUGH THE TOWNSVILLE
CITY COUNCIL’S PARKS SERVICES DEPARTMENT:
https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities-and-recreation/parks-beaches-and-community-venues/venues-and-open-space-bookings/open-space-bookings
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