ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources, both in our Parks and through our partners for the benefit of the people. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Kim Stone at (520) 689-2811, Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov

Take a "Walkabout" through Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Parks' Australian Exhibit

(Phoenix, AZ - April 1, 2009) - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park showcases "the land down under" by featuring 340 species of Australian plants in the Arboretum's Australian exhibit. The newly completed Australian Interpretive Pavilion has been enhanced and will be officially open to the public April 24, in celebration of Earth Day activities.

New displays include an interactive display of Aboriginal Australians' ceremonial instruments, including a display about their food-gathering tools. The interpretive signage has information about how the Aboriginal Australians collect food and make ceremonial instruments from native materials, their relation to Aboriginal culture, and the importance of the "Dreamtime" in their spiritual life.

Aboriginal people believe that in the "Dreamtime" the traditional way of life was established by their spirit ancestors, which often takes the form of an animal like the Rainbow Spirit.

An ethno botanical trail nearby interprets the use of Native Australian plants for food, fiber and medicine.

Arboretum visitors are invited to take a "walkabout" through the Arboretum's Australian Exhibit, now expanded to 7.5 acres, and enjoy the Eucalyptus Forest, the Pearl Bush community, the Drover's Woodshed, and the new Aboriginal Water Seep Exhibit that includes a ceremonial labyrinth, waterfall rock art, engravings and native Australian plants.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located three miles west of historic Superior on U.S. Highway 60, just a short drive from the state's metropolitan areas. Phone (520) 689-2723.

For more information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit azstateparks.com.

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