Liffey Volunteer Weeding | TLC Liffey Reserve, Liffey

CAN YOU HELP US CONTINUE WEED CONTROL AT LIFFEY RESERVE?

TLC’s 14ha Liffey Reserve is nestled on the slopes of the Great Western Tiers, and was included in the Wilderness World Heritage Area in 2015. It is situated alongside several other properties managed for conservation by Bush Heritage Australia and the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service. Foxglove and blackberries have invaded the forest understorey and we are working in an ongoing partnership with our neighbours to control these threats to the reserve's conservation values.

We are heading back to beautiful Liffey Reserve on Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 December, to continue the tremendous work already undertaken by previous teams of volunteers to eradicate these weeds. Can you join us and help improve and maintain this special area's conservation values?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The activity
We will be strategically searching for and hand-pulling foxglove on a steep hill alongside the Liffey River. We may also cut-and-paint or dig out small blackberries and/or elderberries. 

Where
TLC Liffey Reserve is located along Bogan Rd, Liffey, near the Lower Liffey campground. A map showing the exact meeting point will be provided to registered volunteers closer to the date of the activity.

When
The working bee will be conducted Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 December. We will meet at 9am and will work until around 5pm. Ideally, you will be available to participate both days. 

Getting there
Liffey Reserve is approximately three hours by car from Hobart and one hour from Launceston. 

We will provide an exact meeting place to registered volunteers closer to the date of the activity. 

The TLC actively supports carpooling. If you can offer a lift or would like a lift to and from Liffey Reserve, please let us know when you register. The TLC will do its best to match up volunteers requesting lifts with volunteers offering lifts, however this isn't always possible.

Accommodation
You can can camp overnight at the Lower Liffey campground with TLC Staff. The beautiful campground has toilets and campfire facilities. Alternatively arrange your own accommodation nearby and drive to and from the reserve each day (Deloraine or Golden Valley are the closest options).

Skills and requirements

• You will need a moderate level of physical fitness and mobility. You will need to be comfortable with walking slowly across very steep, sometimes slippery slopes and also bending over regularly to negotiate obstacles and pull weeds. 
• Volunteers under 18 years of age are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• It will help if you can identify foxglove and blackberry however we can teach this skill to those who don’t know how to.
• Your safety is our first priority. You will be required to complete and sign a Volunteer Safety Form before the activity commences.

What to bring

• Sturdy walking or working boots with good grip.
• Enough clothing to be comfortable in hot, cold or wet weather over two days. Long sleeves and long trousers are good to keep warm and to prevent scratches and insect or leech bites.
• Your own clean gardening gloves and safety glasses, free from dirt and seeds. We can supply you these personal protective items if you don't have your own.
• You will also need to bring your own lunches, snacks and drinks.
• If you opt to camp at the Lower Liffey campground, you will need to bring your own food for breakfasts and dinners in addition to lunches, snacks and drinks. You will also need to bring all required camping equipment and personal items.
• The TLC will provide all required working and safety equipment.

Reimbursement of expenses
Volunteers are entitled to be reimbursed for reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering with the TLC. This includes fuel and food. You will be able to apply for reimbursement at the conclusion of the volunteer event. 

Register early
We need a great turnout so please join the team! Spaces are limited and registrations close Monday 25 November.

If you would prefer to register over the phone, please call Community Engagement Coordinator Phill Laroche on 0438 826 606, Monday to Thursday during business hours.

Thanks very much for your interest and valuable volunteer support. We look forward to working together with you!

Banner photo: Liffey Reserve - Phill Laroche