Costa’s Climate Ready Gardens Event Inspires Sustainable Change

18 Nov 2024

Costa’s Climate Ready Gardens Event Inspires Sustainable Change

The Strathbogie Shire community gathered on Friday November 15, at Tahbilk’s Peppercorn Paddock in Nagambie for Costa’s Climate Ready Gardens: Thriving Through Change, an inspiring event led by Strathbogie Shire Council with Guest Speaker Costa Georgiadis, host of Gardening Australia.

The sold-out event brought together gardening enthusiasts, sustainability advocates, and community members eager to learn practical ways to combat climate change and create resilient green spaces.

Costa captivated the audience with his practical strategies for sustainable gardening, highlighting how gardeners play a vital role as stewards of the environment. He emphasised that through thoughtful planning and simple actions, individuals can make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change, fostering resilience and connection with nature.

The event began with a moving smoking ceremony led by Taungurung Elder Uncle Mick, who invited attendees to participate.  This ceremonial act, symbolising cleansing, healing, and a profound connection to the land, set a reflective and meaningful tone for the day.

Taungurung Elder Uncle Shane Monk, also shared his invaluable insights, offering a compelling perspective on traditional land care practices and the cultural importance of nurturing a connection with Country.

Jo Nash, General Manager of Tahbilk Wines, spoke passionately about the devastating impacts of recent floods on Tahbilk’s operations and the restoration process. She highlighted the winery’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its ongoing efforts to restore the land while maintaining their focus on conservation.

Attendees also had the chance to interact with the Euroa Arboretum, which was onsite selling plants. As a special gesture, Strathbogie Shire Council provided guests with native seedlings from the Arboretum to encourage further plantings and biodiversity at home.

Strathbogie Shire Council Interim CEO Tim Tamlin expressed his gratitude to Costa and highlighted the significance of the event. “It’s been wonderful to see the community come together to learn from Costa’s expertise and his passion. Events like this empower us to come together, learn from past challenges like the October 2022 floods, and strengthen our resilience to the ongoing impacts of climate change”.

This event was made possible with the support of Emergency Recovery Victoria’s Community Recovery Hub Program, funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).