Para Native Garden is an interpretive native garden established in the suburban back yard of Olga Collis-McAnespie and her husband Alan.  It offers an exclusive andpersonal account of a Muruwari family’s journey and way of life during the pastcentury. It teaches about traditional uses of native, bush tucker and bushmedicine plants, while providing insight into Aboriginal culture, values and protocols. The garden also acts as a platform for cultural awareness training and Olga’s oral story.

In sharing her story, Olga embarks on a personal account of the trials and tribulations experienced by Aboriginal people as a direct result of governmental policies of past and present, and the effects of white settlement on Aboriginal people. Her story, like so many stories, is one of sadness and grief, strength and resilience, and provides people with the courage and inspiration to go forward and fulfill their dreams, regardless of where youcome from. Her story is about a way of life and understanding.

In the spiritual and calm atmosphere of the garden, visitors can listen to a reallife oral autobiography, learn about Aboriginal history, understand the full impact of past and present governmental policies and discuss bush tucker and native plants. Para Native Garden is a place of learning and sharing.  It is educational and enjoyable, uplifting and empowering.