New native bee hotel unveiled in Townsville

This World Bee Day (Friday 20th May 2022) sees a new native bee hotel unveiled in Townsville - the new Ecosophy Garden - situated on the corner of Walker and Stanley streets.

The Garden is named for the intersection of ecology and philosophy and features flowers, herbs, and low-growing native shrubs to encourage bees and pollinators into the area.

A number of community groups and businesses have contributed to the success of the garden with the secret recipe to the healthy soil being 100% local waste. Atlas Soils generously donated its veggie growers blend for the project, which includes organics from Council’s FOGO trial, humisoil made from local small business waste and coffee grounds from 17 local cafes.

Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said the garden was designed as a small-scale ecosystem.

Soars notes “the Ecosophy Garden is unlike anything else we have in Townsville – especially in the CBD. This space is designed to inspire and motivate the community to take small actions which help the environment, society and their own wellbeing.

“The garden will attract local bees and other pollinators like butterflies and birds, helping to increase the ecology of our city centre. It will also provide a space for locals and visitors to read the signs throughout the garden to learn about the concept of ecosophy and the benefits of having pollinators thrive across the city.

“If you visit the Ecosophy Garden, expect to find herbs like rosemary and sage, flowers like butterfly bush and marigolds, and native plants like low grevillia. Each of these plants will attract pollinators while also beautifying the street corner for passers-by.”

The garden has also benefitted from Townsville and District Beekeepers Association, NQ Native Bees, Irrigation Worx NQ and Townsville and Northern Beaches Trailer Hire donating their time, machine hire, products and transport.

As the garden continues to be established, it will continue to be supported by these local businesses and groups.

Soars adds “we’re pleased to be working with Vinnies Blackwood Hostel to enable the men experiencing homelessness who stay there to tend to the garden, including counting pollinators, replacing plants as required and gathering herbs.”

The Ecosophy Garden is officially open now.