Westernport Water and the Landcare Urban Garden Awards

/in , /by

Clever use of microclimates and wildlife habitats created from reclaimed materials were a feature of the prize winning urban garden at the Phillip Island Landcare Urban Awards, presented on Saturday, 14 November.

Westernport Water sponsored the award with first prize going to Berni Murphy of Sunderland Bay.

The winning garden includes a mix of native and indigenous plants as well as bird baths, rocks, logs and reclaimed Kilcunda pylons.

On view to the neighbourhood, the garden shows what can be achieved in a harsh coastal environment.

Managing Director, Murray Jackson, says the awards are a natural fit for Westernport Water.

“Westernport Water has been a long-time supporter of the Phillip Island Urban Landcare Group and has been involved in the competition since it began in 2003.

“These awards highlight in a practical way what can be achieved in water conservation and water reuse without compromising the environment or the detracting from the pleasures of having an urban garden.”

Gardens were judged on 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.

Runner-up was the garden of Sian Adnam and Michael Fletcher at Cape Woolamai. Matthew Stephenson of Cowes was highly commended.

Sue and Hilton Chadwick of Cowes were named Urban Environment Champions for their garden that blends into the adjoining Cowes Primary School Reserve and Smith Street road reserve to create an urban oasis.

Westernport Water, the Phillip Island Landcare group, the Candowie/Lance Creek Catchment Management Group have been working together on environmental initiatives since 1999.

The Westernport area remains on permanent water savings measures. You can check these measures at www.westernportwater.com.auor phone 1300 720 711.

Photos: 3 photos – 

 

Berni Murphy’s winning garden.

 

l to r Hilton Chadwick; Lisa Wangman, Phillip Island Landcare; Peter Winterburn, Westernport Water; Sue Chadwick.

Runner-up Matthew Stephenson (l) with Lisa Wangman, Phillip Island Landcare; and Peter Winterburn, Westernport Water.