Blooming back better: Historic rose garden gets a fresh start

More than 130 years after roses were first planted at Queens Gardens, Townsville City Council is helping the iconic garden flourish again after a significant pest infestation almost wiped out the treasured botanical display.

Eighty new rose bushes have recently been planted at Queens Gardens, replacing plants lost to a chilli thrip infestation that swept through the garden during last year's summer months.

The new plants, sourced from renowned Victorian grower Treloar Roses, have been specially selected for their ability to thrive in tropical conditions and will add a vibrant mix of colours to the historic garden, including reds, apricots, golds, lilacs, peaches and pastel pinks.

Mayor Nick Dametto said the restoration of the rose garden was an example of Council's commitment to maintaining and improving community assets residents value most.

“Queens Gardens is one of Townsville's most treasured public parks, and features like the rose garden are part of what makes it so special,” Mayor Dametto said.

“Growing roses in the tropics takes knowledge and hard work and our Open Spaces team does a fantastic job maintaining them, amid possum and insect attacks and intense weather.

“They’ve found a way to rebuild a stronger and more resilient rose display that will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Following last year’s devastating chilli thrip infestation, Council teams worked closely with local rose-growing enthusiasts to better understand how to manage the pest.

The replacement roses have already proven remarkably resilient, surviving three possum attacks while being grown in Council's nursery before eventually taking their place in the historic garden.

To prevent further possum attacks on the newly-planted juvenile bushes, which are particularly enticing to the brazen marsupials, Council tradesmen have created dozens of rose cages that will be temporarily installed as a protective barrier.

Cr Dametto said the community's enduring appreciation for the garden had helped inspire the restoration effort.

“Council’s Back to Basics focus on maintaining the parks, gardens and community facilities that locals enjoy every day helps foster community pride and lift the whole city,” he said.

“One of the great things about this project has been the support and advice provided by local rose growers and their willingness to work with Council’s team, who share a passion for keeping this beautiful feature flourishing in the tropics.

“We should always stop to smell the roses in life, and one place you can literally do that is down in our beautiful Queens Gardens.”

Council staff will continue to carefully maintain the display through regular pruning, fertilising, mulching and pest management to support healthy growth throughout the year.

Historical records indicate roses were first planted at Queens Gardens in the early 1890s, with the location of the rose garden evolving over the decades to make room for other uses and provide the sunlight needed for their healthy growth.

The rose garden was officially named in honour of Isabel Phillips, who was wife of Townsville Mayor Harold Phillips, in 1970 following a period of refurbishment.