Be inspired and learn about native habitats at the new Moruya Library garden. Photo: ESC.
Two years ago, the entrance to the Moruya Library was a weedy mess. Now, it’s a bush oasis with more than 500 native plants to explore.
The makeover was carried out after Eurobodalla Shire Council’s community development manager Kim Bush felt the space could become more appealing to the eye as well as a cultural and learning experience for visitors.
She rallied the council’s sustainability team and parks crew and set to work creating spectacular “outdoor rooms” on the library grounds.
“We purchased native plants from local nurseries and designed the garden in a way to conserve water,” Ms Bush said.
“Even the species of grass we used around the site, called zoysia, grows slowly and uses less water.
“We hope this garden inspires others to recognise different native plant varieties they can buy locally and plant at home.”
Library visitors are greeted by an eye-catching Corymbia ficifolia ”baby orange’’ flowering gum that’s blooming for the first time right now.
Ms Bush said the relationships between critter, plant and shelter were explained on signs placed throughout the garden.
“The signage will also assist with community and school group visits to the garden where education is provided on water-wise and sustainable gardens and their inhabitants,” she said.
The garden is maintained by Landcare volunteers, eco crews and library volunteers, with more landscaping, a yarning circle and seating to be completed this year.
Another recent addition to the library and The Bas surrounds was a pizza oven, installed in November and funded by the NSW Government’s Reconnect grant program.
“There will be certain days we’ll fire up the oven for people to bake their bread or some pizza, to bring the kids and a picnic blanket to enjoy dinner outside,” Ms Bush said.
The Moruya community can make the most of the library’s new surrounds with a series of events planned, including a Summer Music Evening on Thursday, 12 January, from 5:30 pm until 7 pm.
Families are invited to enjoy a free evening of musical magic by Driftwood, a trio of harp, cello and wind merging classical, folk, world, and contemporary styles.
Playing original compositions mixed with traditional folk tunes, Driftwood will transport visitors through the ages and around the globe on a gentle and surprising aural adventure.
Groups can bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a special alcohol-free performance in the new gardens.
Every Tuesday during January, youngsters aged six to 12 years can enjoy the library’s free Summer Lego Club from 2:30 pm until 3:30 pm.
Budding builders are invited to get creative and attempt the weekly challenge, with all Lego supplied.
The Moruya Library Kids’ Craft Time will be held on Wednesday, 18 January, from 10:30 am until 11:30 am.
From collage to colouring, weaving to paddle-pop stick sculpture, there will be plenty of crafty fun to choose from – and plenty of room for creativity – during the session, which is suitable for children aged six to 12.
Bookings for all summer events can be made by calling the library on 4474 1333.
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