TRC signs exchange agreement
THE Toowoomba Regional Council will welcome staff members from one of the world’s most visited gardens in a new exchange program.
Mayor Paul Antonio said he was excited at the opportunities after signing a memorandum of understanding with the Gardens By The Bay in Singapore, which has been visited by 30 million people since it was started in 2011.
“We’ll be doing a six month exchange, and that officer will arrive in April and will be attached to our parks and recreation branch,” he said last week.
“We will, somewhere down the track, do the exchange.
“This partnership will open up tourism markets, and Singaincluded pore’s GBTB is regarded as one of the top tourism venues in the world.
“By having a partnership with them, we can get something happening.”
The Gardens By The Bay is home to more than a million plants from across the world, with seasonal attractions also offered.
The agreement, which also TAFE South-West, would benefit both parties.
“The visiting horticulturist will be involved in preparations for the Carnival of Flowers and will have a chance to attend relevant training at TAFE,” he said.
“They can help us be part of our planning for the future, and that does include the broader escarpment concept.
“I think they can help us promote Toowoomba – the two-way staff exchange will be a benefit for both parties.
Cr Antonio was lucky enough to visit the gardens last year with the Council of Mayors South-East Queensland.
“Its stunning glasshouses, displaying plants from different continents and climatic zones, offer an entertaining visit for green thumbs and curious novices,” he said.
Photo: Tom Gillespie