In November 2002, Mrs Tamie Fraser AO, patron of the Old Parliament House Gardens reconstruction project launched a campaign seeking public support through rose patronage. Around 2,400 people from around Australia became rose patrons, providing a contribution towards the reconstruction.
The reconstructed Old Parliament House Gardens were opened to the public on 4 December 2004. The National Capital Authority (NCA) manages the Gardens on behalf of the Australian Government.
In December 2014, the ten year rose patronage program came to an end.
Over the years, the Gardens have received thousands of visitors. Patrons often visit to check their sponsored rose which may celebrate a particular person or memorable occasion. It is hoped this special connection with the Gardens will continue into the future.
To acknowledge the contribution of patrons and to mark the conclusion of the program, the NCA commissioned a book written by Dr John Gray OAM, titled 'Roses, Tennis & Democracy'. The NCA contacted patrons in the lead up to the conclusion of the program to offer a copy of the book at the end of December 2014.
Should you have any queries about the patronage program, please contact the NCA on 02 6271 2888 or via email to info@nca.gov.au.