EDUCATE ME
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EDUCATE ME
Growing food for
by Lachlan Turner
wildlife project
The Growing Food for Wildlife Project began when local wildlife carers approached The Hills Shire Council to request access to land where they could cultivate specific native plant species to meet the specialised dietary needs of rescued wildlife in care.
The Community Environment Centre on Currie Avenue, Annangrove, was identified as an ideal site. It already featured a well-established native garden from which carers could source suitable food. In addition, an adjacent parcel of underutilised land was available and has since been developed to expand the cultivation of appropriate native species. The project has benefited greatly from a passionate and active volunteer community that not only offers guidance but also assists in maintaining the plantings.
Some rescued animals, such as possums, can consume up to two kilograms of native foliage per day— though they often only nibble on the fresh outer tips. Nectarivorous birds also require access to flowering native plants while in care, enabling them to recognise their natural food sources once released back into the wild. For busy wildlife carers, gathering enough suitable foliage is a significant task.
The planting plots at the Community Environment Centre now feature carefully chosen local native species most needed by carers to support the feeding and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned animals. A dedicated group of volunteers tends these plots during monthly working bees and regularly harvests native foliage, which is then donated to wildlife carers. This ongoing effort not only supports the recovery of local wildlife but also fosters a strong sense of community among likeminded individuals.
For more information, visit: growingfoodforwildlifeproject. org
This vital, volunteer-driven initiative was recently showcased on ABC’ s Gardening Australia programme.
A Child’ s Learning Centre
Care hours 6.30am to 6.30pm Open 49 weeks of the year Care from birth to 6 years Nutritious meals prepared daily Pre school transition programs Qualified and experienced staff Special needs catered for All daily needs supplied Community based non-profit centre Established in 1989
69 Andrew Thompson Drive, McGraths Hill Phone 4587 7141 admin @ mcgrathshillchildrenscentre. com. au
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25 Riverview Street North Richmond NSW 2754 02 4508 4249
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7 Elizabeth Street North Richmond NSW 2754 02 4508 4228
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www. caring4kids. com. au
In-house Wellbeing Facilitator, Family Support, Counselling
Accredited EMDR Therapist, Wellbeing & Early Childhood Consultant
Tiffany Shipard Bassett Phone 0431 678 733 Email: info @ roadmaptolife. com. au
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North Richmond Redbank
21 Arthur Phillip Drive Access via 42 Yobarnie Ave Ph: 02 4508 4229
northrichmond @ caring4kids. com. au
THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 180 // MAY 2025 23