UPDATE: The working bee scheduled for Saturday 17 March has been cancelled as that day has been declared a day of Total Fire Ban.

Sunday was a warm and sunny day, and our first bushland restoration morning for 2018. We spent it in Area 9, where only years ago it was covered in pittos. But thanks to the chopping and chipping of those Pittos – and the subsequent plantings – it has been returned to a wonderful grassy slope.

At morning tea Linda spoke about the native (non-psychedlic) hemp plant, pictured below.

Thanks to everyone who came along to help, and welcome to some new faces. 
Please check our yearly planner (the pinned post on this page) to see when you can come along and join us for a morning in the bushlands.

We hope you have had a wonderful summer break and are refreshed for the new year.

Our first bush restoration morning for the year is on Sunday February 18, 9.30 onwards.  

At this bush restoration morning will be working in Area 9 which is between Wallaby Walk and Ferny Creek so it should be quite pleasant. This area was once densely covered in Sweet Pittosporum that inhibited the growth of indigenous plants so there was virtually no understory. Since 2009 they have all been progressively removed by contractors that were funded through a series of Melbourne Water grants. The Friends group each year walk through this area removing any weed seedlings that are popping up. You will be amazed to see the regeneration of the indigenous species including the beautiful Copper Bearded Orchid which had not been recorded at Glenfern before.

Meet at the main, central entrance and we will walk to the site. The gate will be open so you can park inside. There will be a break at 11am when there will be an informative talk and morning tea. Please wear sensible clothing and footwear and bring gloves and a water bottle. Morning tea and tools are provided.

Don't worry if you are not confident in identifying weeds versus indigenous plants as we will show you the difference as well as weed removal techniques. New members welcome.

Hope to see you there!

PS: If it's a total fire ban or teeming with rain the working bee will be cancelled.