The Premier, Lara Giddings, today congratulated innovative
Tasmanian company, Plant Management Australia for its role in developing the
official plant of Canberra's Centenary.

I have written to all Premiers and chief ministers encouraging
them to plant"Canberra Bells" in their states and territories ahead of the
Capital's Centenary celebrations next year.

"Only a very special plant would be fit to commemorate an
occasion such as the Centenary of Canberra, and now, the release of the
beautiful correa "Canberra Bells" means every Australian has the opportunity to
share in the celebrations, with a little piece of the Centenary in their very
own garden," Ms Giddings said.

"Tasmania has a special connection to "Canberra Bells" through
local company Plants Management Australia, which has been heavily involved in
the development, marketing and distribution of the new
variety.

 

"Working from small offices at Dodges Ferry, PMA have carved out
a niche working with plant breeders around Australia on everything from
trialling new varieties of plants to providing advice on securing intellectual
property.

 

"PMA was named the 2011 Telstra Tasmanian Business of the
Year for their innovation in this growing market, where everyone is on the
look-out for the next big thing in backyard
gardening."

 

Ms Giddings said the new variety of correa was hybridised by
experienced native plant breeders, Peter and Jennifer Ollerenshaw of Bywong
Nursery near Canberra.

 

"Organisers originally considered the Centenary Rose but it was
agreed a native plant would be a more appropriate symbol for the 'Bush
Capital'.

 

"The hardy shrub features two-tone, red and cream bell-shaped
flowers that will attract nectar-feeding birds. Canberra Bells flowers
throughout autumn and will add a flourish of colour to gardens for Canberra's
official birthday in March each year.

 

"The correa's drought and frost tolerance make it perfect for
Tasmanian conditions and I look forward to seeing it in full flower at the Royal
Tasmanian Botanical Gardens."