Being in nature is rejuvenating - fresh air, greenery, and birdsong can instantly calm us. But did you know that your sense of smell can further enhance these restorative experiences? Closely tied to emotions and memories, scent has the power to transport you, evoke feelings, and create meaningful connections to place.

Join the Uncommon Scents Summer Smell Workshop and discover how plant scents can transform our parks and gardens. This interactive event, part of an RMIT University research project, explores how scent influences wellbeing and how we can use this knowledge to design spaces that restore and inspire.

Through engaging presentations, hands-on activities, and guided scent evaluations, you’ll experience 10 unique plant scents and share your insights via smartphone-based questionnaires. No prior experience is needed—just your curiosity! You’ll also discover ways in which to consider planting species and design your own garden with scent in mind, creating spaces that evoke emotions and memories.

Be part of this exciting research and uncover the extraordinary world of scent. Spots are limited—sign up today and let your senses lead the way!

Please Note: This workshop is a collaborative event between the City of Stonnington and RMIT University. To register, you’ll need to complete three quick steps:

Start with registering here via the My Smart Garden registration process.
Upon registering you will receive a link to complete the RMIT registration - a short 3-minute survey about your favourite scents and activities in public parks and gardens.
Review and sign a participant information and consent form, which will be sent to you later on before the workshop and available on the day.

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Please note that this is an event for Naarm/Melbourne gardeners only. If you live outside this area, please contact your council to find out what free sustainable gardening events are available locally.

If you have any access or support questions or requirements in order to participate fully (eg. interpreter), please let us know at least two weeks prior to the event and we will be pleased to assist you. Photos will be taken at this event, but there is an option to opt out on the day.

This My Smart Garden event is proudly presented by City of Stonnington on the land of Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Bunurong people of the Kulin nation. My Smart Garden pays our respect to Elders past, present and emerging and acknowledges that First Nations peoples have cared for Country sustainably for tens of thousands of years.

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