Residents can swap environmental weeds from their garden for free native plants this Sunday, March 17, at Council’s stall at the Batemans Bay Rotary Markets at Corrigans Reserve.

Council’s natural resource officer Courtney Fink-Downes said filling your garden with native plants – such as those available at the plant swap – would help attract local wildlife.

“Over half of Australia’s threatened animal species occur within the urban fringe,” Ms Fink-Downes said.

“We can all do our little bit to turn our gardens into wildlife-friendly stopovers or refuges for our local wildlife. The more places wildlife can find food, water and shelter, the easier it is for them to thrive. Variety is the spice of life, and the greater diversity of native plants in your garden, the more it will help our wildlife.”

To participate in the swap just bring along bagged environmental weeds from your garden, such as asparagus fern, African daisy and Turkey rhubarb, to name a few, and get free native plants in return.

“Come along to the plant swap to get inspired and your free native plants,” Ms Fink-Downes said.

“You can choose from a variety of plants that will grow to different heights and will provide a rainbow of flower colours throughout the year.

“While working in your garden, don’t forget the little guys like the bugs, butterflies, micro-bats and lizards. Making hiding places with shrubs, logs and rock piles give them some safe places.

“Finally, don’t forget water for the animals. Dishes on the ground will be refreshing places for frogs and lizards while birdbaths are up high for the birds.”

If you have a cat and enjoy watching birds visit your garden, you can also put a bib on your cat. Council’s CatBib program distributes free CatBibs that attach to cats’ collars, acting as a barrier between cats and their prey. 

“Hundreds of local cat owners have changed their practices to either keep their cats inside or put a bib on them so our wildlife is safe,” Ms Fink-Downes said.

If you’re interested in receiving a free CatBib visit  www.esc.nsw.gov.au, phone Ms Fink-Downes on 4474 7493 or email courtney.fink@esc.nsw.gov.au.