We all know creekside environments are special places.  Unlike the rest of the central Victorian landscape, they have deep and fertile soil and plenty of moisture.  Because of that, they are a very productive native animal habitat, but are also vulnerable to domination by introduced invasive plants that choke out the native vegetation and most of the wildlife.

In Castlemaine and district, introduced trees are a big problem.  We’ve been tackling them for years and have made a lot of progress, but there are still a few places that need some attention to prevent the problem getting out of hand. 

At this working bee we’ll show you how to employ low impact methods using hand tools and minimal, safe herbicide application directly to freshly cut stems.  We’ll be using glyphosate (often sold as Round Up®) which is less toxic to humans than vinegar.

Wear sturdy clothes suitable for the day.  Gumboots are advised.

Bring: rubber gloves, leather gloves, secatuers, bow saws, mattocks, empty and cleaned boot polish applicators (see picture below).

We’ll provide rubber gloves, herbicide applicators, hand tools.                                                                     

Meet at the confluence of Barkers and Forest Creeks, just off Gaulton Street, Castlemaine (Map here).

(Late) morning tea provided.

Here is a picture of the type of shoe polish applicator that make good herbicide 'dabbers'.  It would be great if you can bring some of these that still have their sponge tips and are empty and clean.

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