Note to readers: The Sustainable Open Garden Trail is now on Sunday 6 November. It was previously scheduled for Sunday 23 October, as promoted in an earlier version of this article, but has been rescheduled due to forecast wet weather.
Four inspiring household gardens across Ipswich are set to open their gates to visitors as part of Sustainable Ipswich’s 2022 program.
Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Councillor Russell Milligan said people were encouraged register for the Sustainable Open Garden Trail on Sunday 6 November for ideas about using versatile native species and creating wildlife habitat in an urban environment.
“Your backyard is important in creating a more liveable and sustainable city. This event is full of ideas for using versatile native species and creating wildlife habitat in an urban environment.” Cr Milligan said.
“When you see what can be have achieved in a short time it can provide all the motivation you need to launch into your own project.
“There are many benefits to using native plants in your garden. They need minimal maintenance, and are more resilient to our climate, provide food and habitat to native animals, and can suit many garden styles.”
Councillor Milligan said the properties were part of council’s Habitat Gardens program and funded through the Enviroplan initiative.
“This free program is designed to support people with urban backyards to make a positive contribution to Ipswich’s natural environment,” Cr Milligan said.
“For a five-year commitment, you can have access to workshops, resources, free native plants and more.”
Habitat Gardens member Sandra Preston-Hatcher has one of the gardens that will be showcased during the Sustainable Open Garden Trail.
Ms Preston-Hatcher started with the program in October 2020 when her yard was just a lawn with a hills hoist.
“Now it is very different, with lots of habitat for lizards, small birds, frogs and insects. I have also spent a lot of time on soil improvement and water retention and getting more shade,” Ms Preston-Hatcher said.
“I have installed wicking beds for an edible garden and other sustainable garden improvements.
“Habitat Gardens has supported my projects with incentives such as free native plants, workshops and a network of like-minded people.”
Sustainable Ipswich is an annual celebration of everyday actions we can take as a community to create a more liveable city.
It is an opportunity for the community and local businesses to be involved in promoting and celebrating sustainability and our environment.
Sharing stories, knowledge and ideas helps us all live, eat and play the sustainable way!
By working together and making informed choices, we can create a liveable and resilient city for current and future generations.
For more information about the program and register for events and activities click here.
SUSTAINABLE IPSWICH PROGRAM SNAPSHOT:
Urban Heat Island Effect – Virtual Reality Simulation
Tulmur Place: 19 October
Faye Carr Park, Ripley: 29 October
With the use of VR goggles you can see how small changes in the environment, such as planting trees, can help reduce the impacts of heat on our homes and streets. For more information and to register visit Ipswichcitycouncil.eventbrite.com
Gardening with Native Plants: 22 October
Rosewood Library and Springfield Central Library
Join Chuwar’s Mountain Man to learn about using native plants in your garden. For more information and to register visit Ipswichlibraries.com.au/whats-on/adults
Youth Sustainability Summit: 19 October
Ipswich Civic Centre
The full day summit is for primary school students in Grades 4, 5 and 6 and focuses on helping to spark sustainability projects at home and at school. For more information visit the Youth Sustainability Summit page.
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>>> Sustainable Ipswich to fill October with inspiring environmental events