A Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) and Sai Family Picnic Day was held in the ACT Region on Sunday, 6 April 2025 at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, a heritage listed botanical gardens located in Acton, Canberra in the ACT. Nature inspired activities and a picnic atmosphere made for a wonderful day.
The botanic garden displays the world’s largest collection of Australian native plants. Its living collection comprises more than 78,000 plants from all parts of the country – one third of all Australian species. A great place to introduce people to wonders of Australia’s diverse indigenous flora.
“Nature is your school, your laboratory, the gateway to liberation, and the panorama of God’s majesty. Seek to know lessons it is ready to teach” – Sathya Sai Baba, 4 October 1970
The concept of picnics has evolved over time, but its essence remains rooted in simplicity and enjoyment. Picnics offer a break from the fast-paced world, inviting individuals to slow down, savour the moment, and indulge in the beauty of nature.
This picnic day in the ACT Region was held to reconnect with nature, appreciate Canberra’ local environment and connect with SSE and other Sai families. The event enabled these families and children to be outdoors, enjoy nature and have some fun with outdoor activities.
About 30 people attended the activity with 14 children. During the picnic the children participated in a nature scavenger hunt activity that enabled them to explore diverse plants, insects and birds in the garden. They explored the children’s nature trail, an easy 330 m trail, which uses activity stations to get kids thinking about pollination, adaptation and biodiversity and climbed the tree house in the garden. Later, the families and children spread out a blanket and enjoyed snacks and fruits while savoring the scenic beauty.
The memories created – the laughter, the camaraderie, the simple joys of being together – will linger in the hearts of all those who participated long after the picnic ended.
