Published on Friday, 26 May 2023 at 9:51:33 AM
The ongoing effort to curb the spread of the invasive African Boxthorn weed continues with three community workshops on how to treat smaller plants being held by the City of Greater Geraldton.
The South African plant, which was introduced to Australia in the mid-1800s as a hedge plant, has become one of Australia’s most widespread weeds.
It grows in climates ranging from semi-arid to high rainfall environments and once established, it tolerates grazing due to its spines which displaces native vegetation and impacts biodiversity.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said it is incredibly challenging to get this plant, which is included on the Australian Government’s Weeds of National Significance list, under control.
“Boxthorn is a hardy plant that can handle drought, salt spray, sand blasting and grows in partial shade and full sun,” he said.
“It typically reproduces through birds eating the red berries and excreting the seeds but spread can also occur through contaminated materials being dumped in our bushlands.”
Members of the community who have this plant growing on their property or want to help eradicate the weed in local reserves are invited to attend the workshops and gain the necessary skills to treat smaller boxthorn plants using the Boxthorn Blitz kits provided.
These kits will be available to take home at the completion of the workshop. Refreshments will be provided.
Three workshops will be held as follows:
Workshop 1:
Sunset Beach - Seastar Cove cul-de-sac
Sunday 11 June 2023 9am - 11am
Hosted by Sunset Beach Community Group
Workshop 2:
Spalding Park
Saturday 17 June 2023 9am - 11am
Hosted by Chapman River Friends
Workshop 3:
Cape Burney – Beach Carpark
Sunday 18 June 2023 9am - 11am
Hosted by Greenough River Friends
For more information on the workshops, or to RSVP your attendance, please call 9956 6600 or email environmentalplanning@cgg.wa.gov.au.
For more information on African Boxthorn visit the City's website here
Download the workshops flyer here
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