Several hundred visitors, young and not so young, enjoyed their visit to the Community Environment Centre’s Open Day on Saturday August 13th.
Upon arrival, there was the opportunity to enjoy a sausage sandwich provided by members of the local Rural Fire Service. Beyond were rows of stalls and marquees containing a wide variety of information relating to environmental sustainability, organic gardening, native plants suitable for home gardens, bush care and Landcare, bushland art, along with a wildlife carer exhibition as well as promoting the discovery of platypus in locals streams.
The range of free environmentally focused brochures and topical booklet publications available for visitors to take home was considerable.
A local bush band, located in the rotunda, could be heard playing Australian bush ballads.The event was officially opened by The Hills Shire Council Mayor, Peter Gangemi.
A major aim was to alert visitors and local residents of the Hills District to the importance of climate change, and how to meet the challenges of global warming in both suburban and rural areas.
Another aim was to advise interested people in the community that the Centre will be open on both Thursdays and Saturdays into the future.
A wide range of workshops are planned, designed to encourage a more sustainable approach in the use of natural resources, growing you own food, caring for bushland areas and identifying invasive weeds and the importance of controlling feral pests.
Located in Currie Avenue, Annangrove, adjacent to the northern boundary of Langlands Oval in Annangrove Park Reserve, the Centre is inviting interested people to join the group of experienced and enthusiastic Volunteers in assisting with the Centre’s Workshop program, maintenance of the gardens along with providing advice and assistance to those who are keen explore a different but achievable lifestyle.
For further information and photographs go to the Community Environment Centre Facebook page or contact the newly appointed Environmental Education Officer, Jessica Styan, on 9843 0533. – LACHLAN TURNER (Volunteer)
