Darebin NatureFest

Learning about the significance of a place leads to a deeper connection. Darebin Parklands forms a critical habitat link within greater Melbourne. Darebin NatureFest will provide a vibrant space for local community and visitors to engage with the unique biodiversity values of the Darebin Creek within the broader Melbourne landscape. This family-friendly event will give local residents the opportunity to participate in an interactive showcase of our wild places, accompanied by a rich diversity of fine live music and food. Creative activities for children and adults including plant ID and nest-box making will inspire support for our wild places.

Natural environments provide a wealth of benefits for our community: offering a therapeutic haven for some; adventure and imagination for others. There are clear correlations between people’s engagement with biodiversity and mental health. This project connects urban residents with nature and through workshops and active management (workshops, planting and clean-ups) deepen connections to each other and the healthy network of natural ecosystems. It will facilitate engagement between residents on environmental issues and motivate people to care for, use and share their greenspaces. It extends an invitation to connect to the vast network of wild places across Australia.