Westernport Water and the Landcare Urban Garden Awards 2010

Ventnor gardener Leela Maki wins first prize in the Westernport Water sponsored annual Landcare Urban Garden Awards.

An innovative implementation of permaculture principles, featuring a variety of indigenous plants, a selection of art and an effective drip watering system are several of the features that helped Leela Maki of Ventnor win first Prize in the Landcare Urban Garden Awards.
Westernport Water sponsors the award and has been involved in the competition since 2003.
Managing Director, Murray Jackson, says the awards are a natural fit for Westernport Water.
“Westernport Water has a strong relationship with the Phillip Island Urban Landcare Group and our sponsorship of the award is part of our support for the work they do in our community.’’
With much emphasis placed on water conservation and awareness, these awards highlight in a practical way what can be achieved in water conservation and water reuse without compromising the environment or detracting from the pleasures of having an urban garden.”
Creatively working with the limitations of their environment and producing impressive results, these gardeners are judged upon a criteria comprising of five points:
  • Use of indigenous and native plants.
  • Weed removal and control efforts.
  • Water saving measures such as tanks, recycled water and mulch.
  • Creative design that provides habitat for wildlife.
  • Creative design and landscaping to overcome site problems.
Receiving second prize was Peter, Sophie and Tanya Maddigan, and Cameron Wyatt of Cowes for their work on a large swampy block. Third prize in the competition went to Pauline and Geoff Taylor, also of Cowes, whose garden included extensive use of a recycled water system.
Westernport Water, the Phillip Island Landcare group, and Bass Coast Landcare group have been working together on environmental initiatives since 1999.
Gone are the days of using water carelessly. For several years Westernport Water has been operating under a set of permanent water savings rules which remain in force for this region. You can check details atwww.westernportwater.com.au or phone 1300 720 711.