Narara Ecovillage will hold a free Swift Parrot workshop on Saturday, October 29, from 8.30am-noon as it proceeds with plans to create a corridor of winter food plants along Narara Creek for the critically endangered species.
The Swift Parrot migrates from Southern Australia in the winter searching for food.
An Ecovillage spokesperson said the corridor will be created and maintained with the rehabilitation of threatened Swamp Sclerophyll and rainforest plant communities.
Attendees will learn more about the endangered Swift Parrot and how to regenerate habitat.
They will explore the corridor habitat along Narara Creek, and help create habitat to provide winter food for them as they migrate north, with support from bush regenerators from the Community environment Network.
“We are removing a forest of young privet, using the wonderful Tree Poppers, and planting up to 290 plants, including 80 Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta),” the spokesperson said.
“Swamp Mahoganies produce prolific nectar in the winter and help sustain mammals such as Sugar Gliders and flying-foxes as well as parrots and honeyeaters.
“On the day, we will have an introductory chat about the project, including why we are doing this here, what work has already been completed, and the expected outcomes of the day and in the future.
“We’ll walk across to the site for a weeding with Tree Poppers and tree planting demonstration and then get into the activity in groups.”
Morning tea will be supplied by the village’s organic coffee cart and the group will be supported by bush regenerators from the Community Environmental Network.
A Revegetation Guide and a Swift Parrot Guide will be provided by Local Land Services
Attendees have also have an opportunity to find out how Local Land Services can assist on individual properties.
The event has been made possible by grant funding from Local Land Services
Attendees should bring a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, sturdy shoes or gumboots, a wet weather jacket and a water bottle.
Although the event is free, only 30 spots are available.
Registrations are available at https://swiftparrot-oct2022.lilregie.com/booking/attendees/new.
The Ecovillage will also hold an open day on Sunday, October 30, from 10:30am-1pm at a cost of $15.
A talk and a tour will show what Narara Ecovillage is all about, and demonstrate how residents are putting ideas around ecological, social and economic potential into action.
These include shared food growing, natural retreats and permaculture spaces, shared community and workplaces and examples of highly efficient low-carbon homes now and in the next stage.
Closed shoes and all-weather clothing are recommended and pets are not welcome.
Bookings are available on the Ecovillage website.
Primary source: Media release, Oct 17, 2022, Narara Ecovillage