How to Start?

It's simple, just turn up to one of our working bees!  There is no need to call beforehand, but if you would like further information please phone Shaun on 0448 221 210.

What skills are required?

No skills are necessary to start.  Experienced people are always available to help with identification of weeds and native plants and to demonstrate weeding techniques.

What to bring?

Tools are supplied. Bring personal protective clothing such as gardening gloves and a hat. For added protection wear sturdy shoes, long sleeved shirt and long pants.  It's also a good idea to bring some water and insect repellent.

What you will be doing?

Our main activities involve removing weeds and planting suitable local native species. All work is carried out according to vegetation management plans that have been prepared by Ballina Shire Council ro approved by NSW NPWS. We use plants that have been grown from local seed wherever possible.  Seeds are collected and propagated either by landcare members or council nursery staff.

Weeding Techniques

Hand Removal
  • Hand pulling or digging the weed from the ground or 'crowning', involves cutting the rhizome or base of the plant away from the root system with a knife. 
  • Climbing plants or those with runners are removed using a technique known as 'winding up'. Runners are gently rolled up toward the root system, which is then removed by hand pulling.
Using herbicides
  • Vines are often treated by the 'scrape and paint' method - involves scraping the runner with a knife and then painting the area with herbicide.
  • Woody weeds are treated by the 'cut and paint' method - plants are cut close to the stump and herbicide applied to the cut.
*Not everyone likes using herbicide - we understand if you choose to hand weed instead.

Training

From time to time it is possible to attend courses in plant identification and other aspects of bushland restoration.  Also we regularly have professional regenerators join us - we benefit from their experience and knowledge.

Safety
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Learn more about our dune weeds
Working in natural areas means that risks to safety may arise from sunburn, scratches caused by vegetation and insect bites. It is also necessary to be alert for snakes in some of our work areas.  Care must always be taken when using loppers, secateurs, knives and herbicides.  A first aid kit is always on hand.