Spring is here and our Australian native plants are blooming. York’s Bushland Garden on the corner of Grey and Ford Street’s has burst into a riot of colour, fragrance, birdsong, insect activity and ambience. With such a background setting, the Garden offers a reviving sense of wellbeing for those who wish to feel rejuvenated, calmed and at peace.
Members of the York Branch of the Wildflower Society WA volunteer many hours in the Garden propagating and growing out young plants, pruning, weeding, mulching and undertaking general maintenance. Busy Bees are held every Tuesday morning; everyone is welcome. It’s a great way to make new connections and learn about our unique native flora whilst lending a helping hand amidst a beautiful outdoor setting.
The Bushland Garden has been created to highlight the importance of retaining Australian native plants within our towns and landscapes, to showcase their many attributes and to increase knowledge and enjoyment in growing them. The Garden attracts an increasing number of visitors both local and from outside the district; with many groups of individuals volunteering their time and expertise to its creation.
A special partnership has been formed between York Branch and Curtin University whereby a group of international students visit twice a year to lend a helping hand in the Garden. Starting in 2012, the collaboration continues. In August a group of 10 students spent the day working alongside York Branch members to lay edging rocks to clearly demarcate the many pathways. The locally sourced moss-covered rocks greatly enhance the natural features and feeling within the garden. As well, young seedlings were planted and the area mulched and watered. Everyone worked really hard with enthusiasm and good will. Stories were shared and we all learnt a little about the homeland of the international students, their studies and their career aspirations. At the end of the day the students always depart from the garden with very positive attitudes towards protection of our unique native plants.
On another morning children from ‘York’s Education at Home’ (YEAH) group, together with their parents, happily helped plant and nurture young seedlings from the Garden’s nursery. Outdoor education and play help foster an enquiring mind for the natural world around us. Education brings understanding and understanding breeds’ respect. If we want our children and young people to grow up with a love and respect for the natural environment, then what better place to learn in than a bushland garden?
Liz Manning
President
York Branch of Wildflower Society WA (WSWA)
