Library grounds for green wisdom

Visitors usually find plenty to think about after stepping inside the Moruya Library and Basil Sellers Exhibition Centre. Now there’s inspiration to be found outside the buildings too, with work on the new water-wise and wildlife-friendly garden well underway.

Eurobodalla Council’s manager of community development Kim Bush says schools, community groups and even passers-by are welcome to make themselves at home in the new outdoor spaces surrounding the Bas and Moruya Library.

“There will be plenty of spaces to sit and relax, and we’re encouraging anyone interested to take a more active role, helping to look after and develop the garden,” Ms Bush said.

“It’s also an opportunity for our community to learn more about the benefits of low-maintenance and water-wise native gardens as habitat for local animals, which are easy to maintain and can be beautiful and full of colour.”

Ms Bush said Council’s parks crew and sustainability team had been integral to the project; installing the paths and large rock features, and selecting and planting native flora to provide year-round colour.

“It was lovely to see Eurobodalla Landcare join in, with members spending a morning helping get plants in the ground earlier this week,” she said.

Council’s natural resources officer Courtney Fink-Downes said the garden was a model that people could draw from to make their own bush-friendly gardens at home.

“It’s been a tough year for local fauna and residents can take steps at home to give native animals a chance and reduce their environmental impact,’ Ms Fink-Downes said.

“That’s simple things like removing invasive weeds, mulching garden beds to retain water and nutrients, and keeping pets inside at night. Don’t forget Council runs regular plant swaps, where we give you locally-grown native plants in exchange for your invasive weeds, and we do free home visits where we can provide practical advice on creating a more sustainable garden.”