A big thank you to the wonderful weeders who removed more than 450 woody weeds last month, particularly lots of West Australian Bluebell Creeper (Billardiera heterophylla), several of which were mature enough to be producing seed pods, and Cootamundra Wattle (Acacia baileyana) seedlings.

Our next weeding work party will be 8:30 to 11:30am on Saturday 3 November 2018.

We shall focus on removing non-local Billardiera heterophylla (Bluebell Creeper), Acacia baileyana and naturalised woody species in the peripheral areas of the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG).

Meet: the ANBG Southern car park. After going in the main gate, turn sharp left, follow road around the perimeter up to the top level of that carpark. Look for banner or balloons near the pay-parking machine.

Bring: Enthusiasm, your family and friends, water (and a small digger, if you wish). Everyone is welcome.

Wear: hat, sunscreen, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves, stout shoes.

A delicious morning tea will be provided about 10:00am

Please book: if you are planning to come, please email your name and phone number to friendsofblackmountain@gmail.com or phone 0437 298 711, as this helps with the catering. Also, having your contact number helps us to let you know if arrangements need to change at the last minute (for example, adverse weather conditions).

If you need further information, please contact Linda by email or phone 0437 298 711. We look forward to hearing from you, and seeing you at our next weeding work party.

Black Mountain Nature Reserve — A Special Place

Join artist and illustrator Peter Marsack and botanical artist Morgyn Phillips for an informal session of field sketching on Black Mountain. We will talk about tips for field sketching and then find subjects for quick sketches such as trees, plants and birds found on the mountain. We may have time for longer sketches. Beginners are welcome to have a go.

You will need:

• Black permanent felt tip pens (one fine/one thicker eg .2 and .5 or a small range of pencils H, B, 2B (the blue Staedtler Mars Lumograph are good) and sharpener. Rubber optional.

• A5 or A4 sketch pad (visual diary – inexpensive) or sheets of cartridge or drawing paper on a support – stiff board or clip board.

Supplies from Office Works, Eckersley’s or Framing Pieces in Mitchell. Should be less than $20 if you don’t already have these items.

Meet

Car park at the Forest Loop Walk (car park on the right before you get to Telecom Tower). It is a short walk from car park to sketch area on the south side of the Forest Loop Walk path (11 steps involved).

Cost

Gold coin donation

Bring

Water, snacks, sturdy shoes, hat, sun cream and something to sit on - lightweight folding chair or stool, rug etc.

Bring binoculars if you plan to have a close look at birds.

Bookings essential

Places are limited; please email your name and phone number to friendsofblackmountain@gmail.com or phone Libby (6296 1936) or Morgyn (0417 758 184) so that you can be contacted if arrangements need to change (e.g. adverse weather).