Caring for community parks
A dedicated group of Brookvale Park volunteers has overcome everything from rainy days and storms to an actual cyclone, by rallying together to champion the restoration of their local bushland.
Despite the weather throwing plenty at them, the volunteers braved the elements to plant more than 400 native plants for a restorative project to give a boost to the native vegetation that borders Slacks Creek in Underwood.
Local resident Andrea Ebersohn says her community has a strong connection to nature and local wildlife, with the neighbourhood surrounded by 3 natural park areas.
Andrea is among the volunteers who rolled up their sleeves as a meaningful way to protect the local surroundings they love.
‘My walking buddies and I had noticed significant changes in the forests bordering our neighbourhood – particularly the spread of exotic species outcompeting native plants,’ Andrea says.
‘Since we genuinely value and enjoy our natural surroundings, we agreed that we had to do something to restore the habitat in these areas for our local wildlife and the long-term benefit of the community.’
So Andrea and her neighbours decided to become involved with ParkCare, which is one of the community volunteer programs run by Logan City Council for people interested in their local parks.
Under the ParkCare program, the planting of flora that is local to the region supports the creation of vital fauna habitat.
It also boosts biodiversity in the zone between the wet and dry area that borders Slacks Creek, and the surrounding urban parklands and pathways.
‘While the project was modest in scope, it still helped improve habitat for local wildlife and gave us a sense of ownership over an issue that matters,’ Andrea says.
‘It’s going to take time but every effort, no matter how small, adds up to a healthier, more resilient environment for everyone.’
Andrea says the group sees this collaborative effort as marking a significant first step in an ongoing project to restore native vegetation in Brookvale Park and improve Logan’s wildlife corridors.
‘I encourage anyone with an interest in making a difference by supporting the upkeep of our local parks, as well as the natural beauty and biodiversity of our region, to consider joining a ParkCare group,’ Andrea says.
‘Even if resources are limited or progress seems modest at first, there’s genuine value in coming together to make a difference.
‘Plus it’s a fun, social and rewarding thing to do.’
For information on Logan City Council volunteer programs including ParkCare, BushCare and TrailCare, visit: logan.qld.gov.au/parkvolunteers
PHOTO AT TOP: Volunteers working hard to improve their local native vegetation and wildlife corridors, including Andrea Ebersohn standing at the front, third from the right.
