FUN AND RELAXATION HAD AT BOTANIC PARK FAMILY DAY

Garden Club of Grand Cayman committed to Children’s Garden Project

The Garden Club of Grand Cayman (GCGC) and the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park hosted a Family Fun Day on Sunday [24th January] garnering a large crowd of visitors offering their fundraising support of the Children Garden project currently under development.

Through this fundraising event, the Club has been able to contribute to two features of the planned Children’s Garden. “All the money that we have raised over the past few years is for the Children’s Garden. We are all looking forward to the development of the Maze and Sensory Garden, both sponsored by our Club,” said GCGC Botanic Park representative, Jill Wood.

Mrs. Wood stated the event was well received, after hearing from grandparents and parents of children who all wore big smiles while enjoying the activities of the day. “It was a long, hot day in the sun, but I believe it was a resounding success! Everyone absolutely loved it. The Children’s Garden will be an amazing addition to the Park,” she added.

The highlights of the day were the newly opened features which sparked interest with children and adults. “The Observation Tower, Cayman Islands Orchid Society Wild Banana Orchid sculpture created by Joseph Betty, the Greenlight Re Grow Zone, KRyS Global Discovery Pond, Cayman National Splashpad and giant Bird’s Nests created by Tansy Maki were all overwhelmingly enjoyed,” said Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park General Manager, John Lawrus.

“Just seeing the children’s faces as they discovered what a bird must feel like in their own nest was a hit on its own. The views overlooking the Pond, children cooling off in the Splashpad, and watching people explore the views over the treetops provided a positive experience for all,” added Mr. Lawrus.

The crowd also enjoyed the fun family atmosphere which resonated throughout the entire park with games, music, crafts, food and educational booths.

The GCGC has raised more than $30k through its annual Family Fun Day event and it appears the Club is not slowing down in its efforts with organizers stating approximately $9k was raised at Sunday’s event.

But Mr. Lawrus says there is still a lot to be done as the Park is still in need of approximately CI$400k to finish the majority of the Children’s Garden. “There are pathways to establish and shade trees and sails; along with many more details to be installed and we need help from the community to finish this important part of the Park.” he explained.

The plans also include the development of a Great Lawn, Butterfly Garden and Recycling Garden.

“The Children’s Garden is well on its way to becoming a permanent fixture in our community’s landscape. We could not be prouder to receive such an outpouring of support from all the families who came out [Sunday]. I can say that we too have had our challenges with the effects of the pandemic, and I say a big thank you to all who have contributed to the Children’s Garden over the years! We along with our sponsors, are so pleased to bring such an amazing garden to life,” he said.

The Tourism Attraction Board (TAB) which oversees the administration of the national attraction is equally as excited to see the progress of the Children’s Garden thus far. “The TAB is truly grateful to the Garden Club of Grand Cayman for their commitment and dedication to the Park and more specifically to the Children’s Garden project. Through quality partnerships like these as well as continued financial support from other private sector partners, we will achieve our goal of completing one of the best fun and playful learning environments which encourages our children to interact with nature,” said TAB Director, Patrick Thompson.

“The turnout for the event was tremendous and I join the general manager in expressing gratitude to the public for their support. It was another successful event for the entity and a commendable performance by the team at the Park and all its volunteers,” added Mr. Thompson.

For more information about the Children’s Garden project and how you or your company can donate, please contact Mr. John Lawrus on 947-9462 or email manager@botanic-park.ky.