Community urged to roll up sleeves for Bendigo conservation weekend

Residents are encouraged to get involved in a hands-on conservation weekend as the Bendigo Conservancy and Rotary Club of Port Shepstone host two environmental action events.

The weekend kicks off with an Invasive Alien Plant (IAP) removal at Bendigo Nature Reserve on Saturday, February 7, from 08:00 to 11:00. Access to the reserve is via B-Cubed Guesthouse and Leka’s, on the corner of the R102 and Hazel Road in Southport.

Volunteers are asked to bring along tools such as a garden fork or spade, pick, secateurs or loppers. Be sure to wear strong gardening gloves, old closed shoes or gumboots, as well as long sleeves and long pants. Beverages and snacks are recommended.

The initiative is designed as a cheerful and informative community outing, offering participants the opportunity to learn about the safe removal of IAPs while contributing to healthier soil and ecosystems. The activity is also Grade 11 Life Orientation CAPS points certified, making it ideal for learners needing community service hours.

The conservation focus continues on Sunday, February 8, with a beach clean up from 15:00 to 17:00. The starting drop-off point is outside Le Shac, off Marine Drive in Shelly Beach. There will be no parking available at the starting point.

The finishing point and pick-up will be at Shelly Family Chiropractics, on the corner of Marlin Lane and Marine Drive. Refuse bags will be provided, but participants are asked to bring their own gloves.

At the end of the clean up, tea, coffee, cold drinks and freshly baked scones will be on sale at 835 Marlin Lane, with proceeds going towards fundraising for Bendigo Nature Reserve.

Those wishing to take part in either event are asked to RSVP to Dee on 071 8662129 by 16:00 on Friday, February 6, for the IAP removal, and by 12:00 on Saturday, February 7, for the beach clean up.

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