April Working Bee

Big clean up at Fords Road, Campbells Creek

As part of our platypus focused project, we plan to revegetate a section of Campbells Creek that few of us have ever visited.  The creek here is a wide and long pool, probably quite deep.  Used for farming for many decades, the adjoining parcel of public land is now becoming available for restoration work.

Today we’ll be clearing the creek bank of obstacles to future planting.  These obstructions are mainly branches of willows and other woody weeds.  We will cut the branches and carry them away from the creek.  Some we’ll burn on top of dead blackberries—removing both in one go!

There’s also some rubbish that we’ll move away from the creek.

A few woody weeds remain alive.  We’ll deal with as many of these as we can on the day by ‘drilling and filling’ or ‘cutting and painting’—both techniques for introducing herbicide into the sapwood and bark.

Arrive for a 10:00 a.m. start.  If arriving by car, the best place to park is near the big hay/machinery shed (on the left as you drive out along Fords Rd).  This link is to a Google Maps pin.  We have permission to park there.

Please wear clothing suitable for the weather, gloves and sturdy footwear.  The forecast is for a calm, partly cloudy day with temperatures ranging from 14 to 17°C.  Gloves will be essential, preferably heavy duty.  The ground is uneven and has hidden obstacles.

Given all the hazards, today’s working bee is not so suitable for young children, unless constantly and closely supervised and kept away from danger.

We’ll supply most tools, but if you are experienced and confident in their use, feel free to bring:

• Chainsaw and supplies
• Cordless drill and drill bit/s of about 10 mm diameter

Afterwards, we’ll have light refreshments (supplied).

Hope to see you there!