As part of Botanic Gardens Week 2026 and the “Grow Well” Series, in Episode 2 BGANZ brought together an inspiring panel of speakers to explore the powerful connection between volunteering, nature and wellbeing.
From reducing loneliness and stress to strengthening social connection and purpose, volunteering has long been recognised as a meaningful way to contribute to community. Increasingly, research is also showing that volunteering can play an important role in supporting mental health and overall wellbeing.
In this special webinar, Grow Well Together: Benefits of Volunteering, audiences heard from some of Australia’s passionate voices in gardening, community and volunteering about why giving your time may also be one of the healthiest things you can do.
The conversation featured beloved gardening personality Costa Georgiadis alongside Mark Pearce (CEO of Volunteering Australia), who shared insights into the growing evidence linking volunteering with improved life satisfaction, resilience and social connection.
The webinar also explored the emerging concept of “social prescribing”, where healthcare professionals connect people with community activities to support wellbeing and recovery. As communities continue to seek preventative approaches to health, volunteering is increasingly being recognised as a valuable pathway to connection, purpose and belonging.
Audiences also heard firsthand stories from volunteers at Kings Park and Botanic Garden, including Katherine Choules, Tony Dickinson and Gillian Marshall. Their experiences highlighted the unique role botanic gardens play as spaces where people can connect with nature, contribute to conservation and education, and build meaningful relationships with others.
Combining time outdoors, shared purpose and community participation, botanic gardens offer more than beautiful landscapes — they create opportunities for people to grow well together.
Missed Episode 1 all about Youth and Gardens? You can watch it here.
Find out more about Botanic Gardens week here.
