Bushcare Volunteer Open Day

Come spend an hour at the Strathfield Community Garden for the Bushcare Volunteer Open Day. Parents and school-aged kids are invited to enjoy fresh air, a free BBQ and a welcoming group of volunteers. This short, practical event is a gentle introduction to bushcare and local environmental stewardship for families looking for outdoor activities.

What to Expect

You will be welcomed by experienced Bushcare volunteers who will explain current projects and show simple, safe tasks that children can help with. The tone is friendly and practical, aimed at easing busy parents into volunteering while the kids engage with nature and learn about native plants and wildlife.

Expect hands-on activities such as light weeding, mulching and planting demonstrations, with opportunities to ask questions about local biodiversity and environmental care. Volunteers will demonstrate tools and techniques and help match tasks to different ages and abilities, making it an educational family-friendly experience.

A free BBQ will be running during the event so families can relax, chat with council staff and meet other local parents. This makes it easy to combine volunteering with a social catch-up, and gives children a chance to refuel after exploring the community garden.

Activity Details

The open day runs for one hour and is designed as a relaxed drop-in session for newcomers and those curious about ongoing bushcare activities. Tasks are suitable for a range of fitness levels and can be adapted so older children can take on slightly more responsibility while younger ones participate with parental supervision.

Volunteers will supply gloves and basic tools, but parents are welcome to bring their own gardening gloves and a water bottle. Activities focus on environmental education, so expect practical tips on caring for native plants, weed identification and simple habitat improvements to support local wildlife.

This is a low-commitment way to learn about volunteer opportunities in Strathfield and to introduce kids to conservation and nature play. It’s ideal for parents who want meaningful family activities that combine community connection, outdoor exercise and environmental learning.

Location and Access

The event takes place at Strathfield Community Garden in Laker Reserve, Elva Street, Strathfield 2135, a short walk from local streets and easily reached by car. There is limited on-street parking nearby and the garden is accessible by foot from surrounding neighbourhoods.

Public transport options include nearby bus stops and local routes; families are encouraged to plan travel in advance to arrive on time for the 3:30pm start. The community garden layout is flat and child-friendly, with gathering areas suitable for the BBQ and demonstrations.

Facilities are basic — bring a sun hat and water bottle, and be prepared for outdoor conditions. Volunteers will advise on safe places for children to explore, and the garden layout allows parents to supervise while taking part in light bushcare tasks.

Important Information

This event is family-friendly but children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times for safety around tools and garden beds. Tasks will be chosen to minimise risk and volunteers will provide guidance on safe participation for different ages.

Wear sun-safe clothing and closed-toe shoes for working in the garden; gloves are recommended and some will be provided. If anyone has allergies or mobility concerns, contact the council ahead of time to discuss suitable participation options.

The event focuses on environmental education, so it’s a great opportunity to introduce school-aged children to concepts like native planting, habitat care and local biodiversity. Parents can use this practical experience to continue learning at home and encourage ongoing nature connection.

Booking and Prices

The Bushcare Volunteer Open Day is free to attend and family-friendly, with no cost for participation or the BBQ. Registration is encouraged so organisers can plan numbers and provide any necessary materials.

To register, follow the event booking link provided by the council; bookings ensure volunteers can prepare gloves and tools and plan a safe, educational program for children. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits, but pre-registration is recommended for families.

This event offers an easy, cost-free way to try bushcare volunteering and meet local parents who care about the environment. It’s ideal for families seeking local outdoor activities, community involvement and simple environmental education for kids.