Launch of bush garden at Ellenbrook

9/6/95

The Ellenbrook environment and the community would be given a boost with the commencement of a school bush garden project and the release of a residents' guide to environmentally friendly urban living, Environment Minister Peter Foss said today.

Mr Foss, who launched the bush garden at Ellenbrook as part of Arbor Day celebrations, congratulated Year 7 students at the Upper Swan Primary School for their work on re-creating a slice of natural bushland.

"With assistance from their teachers and a project adviser, the students will help design the garden, determine the plants to be included and have a hands-on role in getting it started," the Minister said.

"They will monitor the garden's development and use their work as an example to local residents and visitors of what the natural bushland of the area looked like prior to clearing."

The Ellenbrook Joint Venture provides financial support for the project which is located next to a three-hectare groundwater lake close to the first village centre - 'Woodlake'.  Ellenbrook would ultimately include six villages and a population of around 33,000 over the next 15-18 years.

An information guide 'Enhancing Your Ellenbrook Lifestyle - An Environmental Guide to Building and Living at Ellenbrook' would be available to residents involved in building the current 11,500 new homes under construction.

The Ellenbrook Joint Venture Guide covers topics including:

·       the style and construction of housing to encourage energy and solar efficiency;

·       waterwise gardens;

·       responsible use of pesticides, fertilisers and weed killers; and

·       details on broader climatic and geographic issues.

Mr Foss said each new householder would receive a copy of the guide in a welcome kit.

He said environmental awareness among land developers was to be encouraged and the promotion of environmental care applauded.

"In Ellenbrook's case a detailed community plan has been prepared and is being implemented in association with the Shire of Swan and a range of government and private service providers," Mr Foss said.

"However, the joint venture is doing more than most and this new community will be starting off on the right foot.  Prior to a major opening of the project in September, this former sand pit will be transformed through several million dollars of landscaping and planting."

Mr Foss said the students' contribution and the residents' guide were significant steps in a long-term commitment to the Ellenbrook environment and community.

Media contact:  Stacey Molloy 321 2222 or 222 9595