Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Claim your free native plants! Photo supplied
As spring brings new life to gardens across the region, Mackay residents are being motivated to get their hands dirty and add a little more greenery to their backyards with free native plants.
The Mackay Natural Environment Centre (MNEC) and Sarina Native Community Garden are inviting residents to their upcoming open days, offering the chance to collect native plants, speak with gardening experts and learn more about local environmental initiatives.
Residents can claim up to four free plants each calendar year by bringing along their rates notice. Those wanting to add a few extra plants to their collection can purchase additional plants for $3 each, with EFTPOS the only payment option available.
Behind the giveaway is a year-round effort by MNEC staff and volunteers, who collect seeds, grow seedlings and care for young plants before making them available to the community.
That work has helped deliver thousands of plants for both residential gardens and environmental projects across the region.
In the last financial year, MNEC distributed more than 102,000 plants, with approximately 20,000 provided through open days and click-and-collect programs.
The centre’s work also supports larger conservation efforts, with Reef Catchments purchasing around 50,000 plants for projects focused on reducing sediment runoff and restoring koala habitat along the Sarina–Eton Range.
Among the plants enjoying success at MNEC this year is Philydrum lanuginosum, commonly known as Woolly Frogsmouth.
The aquatic native plant is a welcome addition to waterways and wet areas, providing habitat for frogs, attracting pollinators and contributing to healthy aquatic environments.
Whether residents are looking to brighten their backyard, support local wildlife or learn more about native gardening, the upcoming open days offer an opportunity to grow something beneficial for the region.
The MNEC Open Day will be held on Saturday 26th September, from 9am to 2pm.
Green Up Sarina will take place on Wednesday 30th September, from 9am to 1pm at the Sarina Community Native Gardens.
Residents unable to attend either event can visit MNEC for click and collect on Wednesdays between 9.30am and 11.30am, or arrange an appointment.
What? MNEC Open Day
When? Saturday 26th September, 9am-2pm
Where? Mackay Natural Environment Centre
What? Green Up Sarina
Where? Sarina Community Native Gardens.
When? Wednesday 30th September, 9am-1pm
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