Community
11 June, 2026
Botany? Let me do the maths on that
Growing up, Tim Entwisle had no intention of becoming a botanist. No intention at all.
Growing up, Tim Entwisle had no intention of becoming a botanist.
No intention at all.
He enrolled at university to study mathematics, by chance took a unit on botany and life thereafter took a dramatic turn.
Obviously, for the best.
The (now) Professor Entwisle, 65, has held some of the most prestigious positions at the Sydney Botanic Gardens and at the Melbourne Botanic Gardens.
His knowledge is respected around the world.
He moved to Bowral 18 months ago to be closer to family, but retirement (or semi-retirement) hasn’t stopped him from doing what he loves.
He has only just returned from trips to Morocco and China, taking people on guided tours of botanic gardens and speaking with them about natural landscapes.
It’s a part of the ‘job’ that he now loves.
Professor Entwisle said the botanic gardens in East Bowral needed a long-term vision and a strong volunteer base.
He said the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens appeared to have both, and he would continue to offer his support as it continues to take shape.
He said the local garden was very young but full of potential and local residents would have to wait another 50 years before it starts reaching potential.
He assures local residents it will be worth the wait.
Professor Entwisle said his AO was recognition that his work was appreciated – particularly when people looked at it wholistically and took into consideration his media work through Radio ABC and other outlets.
· Professor Entwisle was named an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division in The King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List.
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