Nature Conservation Margaret River Region launches an exciting new initiative aimed at caring for the Margaret River, with a packed 12-month calendar of events to inspire and educate locals about the iconic waterway.

The Friends of Wooditjup Bilya (Margaret River) November program will feature a guided restoration walk by local river steward, Dr. Ann Ward who has worked for years alongside her river property to transform a degraded patch into a thriving biodiverse river foreshore. Joining Ann is weed warrior Rick Ensley, who has worked in revegetation and restoration along the Wooditjup Bilya for decades.

Starting at Ellen place, we'll tour the River Reserve and see the incredible restoration work done by local school students and volunteers. Alongside the reserve Dr Ann Ward has spent several years revegetating her bush block. See first-hand how she has put regeneration principles and techniques into practice as Ann shares her experience as a dedicated river steward, along with the successes and challenges involved in restoring riparian vegetation and ecosystems. Joining Ann is conservationist Rick Ensley, who will share his extensive knowledge of weeds and how to identify them, along with tips and techniques for various forms of weed control. As we complete the tour, we'll see the inspiring effect of restoration efforts alongside the devastating impact of invasive garden escapees.

After the walk, join us for the work! Friends of Wooditjup Bilya volunteers will have a chance to get their hands dirty and put some of their new-found knowledge to the test, by removing invasive garden escapees which threaten to invade the Wooditjup Bilya. Learn what they are and importantly, how to get them under control and protect this precious riparian zone. Be part of the restoration!

Want to join us?

Meet at the start of the walking track, alongside 10 Ellen Place at 9:30am Thursday 2nd November.

For more information contact: Lauren Scanlon, Friends of Wooditjup Bilya coordinator, at lauren.scanlon@natureconservation.org.au

Please note: Tickets are limited and there is a waiting list so please let us know if you can't make it!

This program is funded by the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River through the Environmental Management Fund.