Beautiful Botanic Gardens.

I would like to show you some of my favourite places in the Botanic Gardens here in Ballarat where I live.

The lake is now full after several years of severe drought that saw it dry up completely.

We wondered if we would ever see water in it again but it seemed to take no time at all to fill when we had some much needed rain

The swans and all the other birds that live nearby, miraculously appeared again when the lake filled,  I wonder where they went when there was no water and how do they know when to return!          

The Begonia House is a large glass building. I'm still not sure if I like it as it's very modern but when you venture inside, there is  always something interesting to look at.

 There are several different themed displays through the year apart from the famous begonia festival with the most breathtaking blooms you would wish to see. 

 The photo depicts an underwater theme with fish, seaweed and jelly fish. Very colourful.

Fairyland is a really pretty part of the gardens. A lot of work has been done recently to this area, new walkways and little bridges.

 You can always find many different birds there as it's quite a sheltered area.

The statue house is a lovely, old building. There are several beautiful marble statues inside but the best known is the large one in the centre called " Flight From Pompeii" It depicts a man and perhaps his wife and child fleeing from the eruption of the volcano.

  There are many statues throughout the gardens as well including the Prime-Ministers walk.

The gardens are a popular venue for weddings, held here in the statue house and in the gardens.

The Australian Prisoner of War Memorial is at one of the entrances to the gardens. The names of all servicemen who fought in every war that Australia was involved in and who were taken prisoner are recorded here.
  It's a moving place to visit. There are so many names carved there and each would have a story to tell.