Weeds, bugs, and frisbees: the department takes on Eco-Fair 2024
When you mix invasive plants, curious bugs and a touch of educational expertise, you get the Weed Management Branch's (WMB) unforgettable presence at the Jingili Water Gardens for the Eco-Fair 2024.
Eco-Fair 2024 is an annual event hosted by Territory Native Plants that sells native plants to the public. Invitations are sent to industry stakeholders for participation to make the day an all-inclusive environmental fair. Local Councils, Northern Territory Government departments, Power and Water Corporation and Charles Darwin University are just a few of the organisations that attend and promote their core business in an informal and educative event.
On Saturday 20 July, Weed Management Branch (WMB) representatives Gerald Danao and Russel O’Regan hosted a stall that turned heads and sparked conversations, proving that even weeds can steal the show when paired with a few well-placed frisbees and a wealth of knowledge.
The WMB stall aimed to educate the public on invasive plant management, featuring live gall flies and calligraphy beetles as biological controls for Siam and sida weeds. These were displayed alongside other legislated weeds like gamba grass, neem tree, limnocharis, and bellyache bush.
The branch also offered educational materials which were eagerly taken by the public. Popular promotional items included frisbees promoting weed spread prevention, pens promoting gamba grass management, key rings and stubby coolers.
The event aimed to raise community awareness and answer questions about invasive species and the WMB’s role in weed management across the Northern Territory. The strong public engagement and the widespread distribution of educational materials suggest a positive impact.
