Cabbage Tree Landcare Firewise garden Presentation

Firewise Garden Demonstration at Cabbage Tree Creek

A Cold August Saturday, the Cabbage Tree Creek Landcare Group hosted local plant expert Phillip Vaughan for a fascinating and practical demonstration. Phill gave an engaging presentation showing how different plant species respond when exposed to an intense flame of nearly 1500 degrees.

As expected, eucalyptus branches ignited readily, but more interestingly, Lilly Pilly and saltbush barely burned at all and even helped reduce flame intensity. Phill’s demonstration clearly illustrated how carefully chosen plants in a well-planned Firewise Garden can help reduce fire risk around homes and community buildings.

Far East Victoria Landcare has more information about designing Firewise gardens, though it’s always important to remember that in catastrophic fire conditions, the safest option is to follow emergency services advice and leave early. Firewise gardens, walls, and other property preparations are valuable tools to help communities as weather conditions become increasingly challenging.

After the demonstration, attendees inspected the new Firewise garden planted between the Hall and Men’s Shed. Nine months on, most plants were thriving—a promising sign for the project’s future. Some good news was also shared: funding from the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife has been secured to help maintain the garden for the next 12 months.

The day finished with a relaxed BBQ, conversation, and Firewise plant giveaways. The next Landcare meeting is planned to coincide with the upcoming Hall Committee meeting.

For more information about Firewise gardens or any Landcare projects, please contact Josh at Far East Victoria Landcare.