Agriculture, botany and biology have been part of Flora Deverall’s life and career since she graduated with a Science degree from Melbourne University. An area of special focus was Timber Mycology. Flora lectured in this in the USA after graduation.
In 1981 Flora became a pioneer member of the newly established Volunteer Guides Program at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Flora has been an active Guide for 40 years and only recently retired from teaching at the University of Sydney.
Flora has been a member of the Foundation and Friends of the Botanic Gardens for many years and was President from 1986 to 1989.
Flora continues to contribute to the training programs of new Volunteer Guides in basic flora botany, and over the years conducted training for some of the Garden’s horticultural apprentices.
Flora has engaged with thousands of local and international visitors on her guided walks, and she has also developed special walks including the History of the Domain and Grasses.
She is respected by both peers and staff because of her professionalism and dedication and in 2017 Flora was recognised for her contribution to the Royal Botanic Garden and the Volunteer Guide Program during the annual NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
Donna Osland (left) and Flora Deverall (right).