Sam Tonks

THE Bombala Preschool welcomed a keen bunch of helpers to the Ngulla Garden on Saturday, with its community native planting day proving a happy success.

“We had a lovely day and a great turnout,” Ngulla Garden project manager, Lynda Warild said.

“About 30 members of the community turned up, with all ages taking part.”

The group picked up some tips from Annie Platts of the Monaro Native Tree Nursery, learning how to successfully plant and care for natives on the Monaro.

Theresa Watts from the Straw Castle Collective also shared information on the importance of selecting a range of native plants that flower at different times to provide food for bees and other insects all year round.

Then it was time to don the gloves and roll up sleeves, with everyone pitching in to help plant over 70 native small trees, large and small shrubs, ground covers, wild flowers and edible native plants in the Ngulla Garden.

“We all shared a delicious lunch, conversation and laughs,” Lynda said.

“A big thank you to everyone for coming, and our lovely guest speakers, Annie and Theresa.”

The event was proudly supported by a Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal grant, with the planting day helping realise the Ngulla Garden’s ideal of being a shared space of education and enjoyment for both the preschool and wider community.