Shire of Mundaring, Western Australia (WA), has established a native plant demonstration garden that is both innovative and informative.
The garden, located at Sculpture Park, Mundaring, showcases waterwise native plants and incorporates firewise elements, such as gravel paths and smaller plants, which do not drop flammable material, making them more suitable for bushfire prone areas.
Local landscape architect Sue McDougall developed the design with input from the Shire’s environmental and bushfire safety staff, and members of the Eastern Hills Branch of the Wildflower Society of WA.
Environment & Sustainability officer, Briony Moran, said another benefit of the garden is that the use of native plants provides ecological benefits, such as habitat for local birds and wildlife.
Featuring the chainsaw skills of Matt Bonsack, the Shire’s Supervisor Tree Management, the garden was recently shortlisted in the Water Corporation’s Waterwise Council Community Choice Awards. The winner will be announced next month.
