Hillston Arid Zone Botanic Garden (HAZBG) is set to break ground, following funding approval.

In August 2024 Carrathool Shire Council allocated $190,000 from surplus funds on other projects to begin work on stage 1 of the HAZBG.

Clearing works began in September 2024 and were then put on hold pending the outcome of our funding application to the Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program.

In August Council was informed we have been successful in securing a further $568,959.00 which will enable initial completion of all 3 stages of the garden project and works will begin as soon as funding deeds are finalised.

In 2020 A master plan was developed for the Hillston Arid Zone Botanic Garden project. This plan consisted of 5 stages and had an estimated cost of just over $6 million.

A Council committee was formed relating to the project and Council attempted to source funding from various grant opportunities.

This project will be the only arid zone botanic garden in RAMJO region and Council hopes the community will see an increased tourism spend, increased visitor nights and development of significant tourism product along the Kidman Way Grey Nomad route.