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Space People! The weekend’s election sure was a big wet palm frond to the face for anyone hoping for a greener future in Australia. But you know what? We have our own back gardens, our own streets, and our own green spaces - which are a far cry from the goings-on in Canberra, and are well within our charge. There’s a lot on offer via local councils - you just need to do a little bit of (non-garden) digging to find what’s happening and what’s available to help you green up your space. For example, this inspired us this week; adding to their recently approved plans to develop a massive ‘Skyfarm’ in a former city carpark, the City of Melbourne has now announced almost $20mill towards their Green Our City Strategic Action Plan, with an ambitious commitment to plant at least 3,400 trees in the next year and to help council care for more than 80,000 trees. The progressive council (which will also soon be entirely wind-powered) will also upgrade current public green spaces, plus commission vertical gardens and sustainable green-roof projects throughout the city. Bravo Melbourne. Back here in Freo (and in most Perth councils), the City has a whole heap of measures on hand for greening and tending to your own plots, and if you’ve got time this weekend maybe you’d like to jump on board with some of these grass-roots initiatives: + For the month of May, Fremantle residents can download this voucher which allows them to purchase up to 40 native plants for $1.50 each from APACE nursery in North Freo. Schools and commercial properties can apply for more at their discretion. This is a great, affordable opportunity to glam up your yard or verge while creating sanctuary for the surrounding bird and bee populations. + Each year between April and July the City of Freo allows residents to apply to have a tree planted on their verge (for free!). Following an inspection, the council will discuss what options might be most suitable for your plot. More info on that here. + The twice-annual local green waste collection picks up 321-tonnes of greenery to be turned into delicious free mulch for your garden! Drop past the Fremantle Recycling Centre with proof of residency to fill up on as much as you need. Lastly, why don’t you get your neighbours together, your school, or a group of friends and apply to start your own local community garden! Pieces of council land are awarded to successful applicants and grants of up to $20,000 are offered in support. Learn to grow your own food, eat that food, and get your hands dirty with your friends and family. This is just a focus on Fremantle (as they’re our local council) but do check what flora-loving initiatives your own council is offering, and let’s get as many of our green thumbs up as possible. Saving the environment might not fatten bank accounts, yield dividends or come back to you as tax-free credits, but it will contribute to a beautiful, breathable planet for all of us who live here. See you in the garden, SM x
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