The National Rose Gardens were developed at a time when flight was still in its infancy, yet were planted to resemble two roses when viewed from above. The idea was put forward in 1928 but no work was undertaken until 1933, when the Minister for the Interior, John Perkins, planted the first shrub and announced that 2000 of the planned 8000 roses would be planted within a week.
The beds are located on either side of the central lawn in front of Old Parliament House and are open for all to enjoy.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.
We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.