Cr Bernadette Thomas
Living in a city can make it hard to connect with people and nature. If you want to reap the benefits of spending time outdoors, consider writing yourself a green prescription.
Explore one of 150 open spaces in Maribyrnong – go for a walk or commute by bike along the Maribyrnong River, climb the trees in Cruikshank Park, or get lost among the trees in Newells Paddock.
For something a little closer to home, try creating an urban oasis in your backyard. A smart garden can grow food, provide shade, use water wisely, and create homes for native animals.
Council’s My Smart Garden program offers free workshops and online resources, for more information, visit: mysmartgarden.org.au
Council is currently seeking feedback on our draft Nature Strip Policy and Guidelines, which will allow residents to create a native landscape on the nature strip in front of their house.
Small native shrubs and ground covers can create the perfect habitat for small birds, insects, and other critters, and provide the perfect opportunity to add greenery to your street. You can share your feedback on the draft Nature Strip Policy and Guidelines at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/nature-strips
You can also connect with like-minded locals and join one of our nature-based groups, like the Friends of Stony Creek, Friends of Newells Paddock, Friends of Cruikshank Park, Friends of Maribyrnong Valley, Friends of Footscray Park, or the newly formed Westside Queermates, to help restore our precious natural sites in and around our municipality.
Roll up your sleeves and get involved with a community garden or a composting hub, like the one in Yarraville. You’ll be exercising your body and your mind while connecting to nature and people. Just what the doctor ordered!
