Green and keen – our top five things to do at Parks Alive
A certain famous frog once lamented that it’s not easy being green, but Parks Alive returns this year to prove quite the contrary. Held over three weekends on August 6–7, 14 and 28, Parks Alive shines an eco-spotlight on Brisbane’s four premier parklands and gardens with 90-odd events for nature lovers to dive into. Whether you’re a wannabe green thumb or a regular Don Burke, here’s our pick of the parks to check out.
Behind the Scenes of Roma Street Parkland – Saturday August 6 at Roma Street Parkland
It’s easy to walk through the lush surrounds of Roma Street Parkland and take it all for granted, but there’s a lot going on under the surface. This behind-the-scenes walk through gives an inside look at all that’s involved in keeping the gardens looking super schmick, with head gardeners Gary and Paul sharing their tips and processes. For those who are big on the ‘waste not, want not’ philosophy, there’s even a section on compost creation. No scraps here!
Growing Tea with Linda Brennan – Saturday August 6 at Roma Street Parkland
There’s something to be said for a good old-fashioned cuppa – it warms the body and soothes the soul. Green-thumb goddess Linda Brennan runs the awesome Growing Tea demonstration, sharing her knowledge of herbal teas and how to grow the most fragrant brew in your own backyard. Samples from Linda’s own collection will be on offer as she talks audiences through everything from growing, flavour blending and keeping your herbs in top shape.
Bush Tucker Walk and High Tea – Saturday August 6 and Sunday August 7 at Roma Street Parkland
Horticulturalist and bush-tucker expert Tim Collins knows a thing or two about good grub and how to get it. Join him on a walk through the parkland as he reveals all the sneaky spots where you can get your hands on authentic bush-tucker. At the end of the walk you can tuck into some fresh lemon myrtle tea and other delights that come straight from the source. There’s no entry fee, but bookings are essential so sign up through the Parks Alive website.
Bazil Grumble: Make Your Own Bird Feeder – Sunday August 14 at South Bank Parklands
The South Bank Parklands is home to many a weird and wonderful species of bird, nesting all around the precinct. It’s cool to be kind to our feathered friends, and the folks at Parks Alive know it. This kid-focused workshop gives little ones a chance to make their own unique bird feeder to encourage native birds in their own garden or balcony to get cosy.
Walk the Citriodora Trail – Sunday August 28 at Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens
Here’s one for the fans of fitness – you could be one of the first to walk Mt Coot-tha’s brand new Citriodora trail. Experienced guides from the Brisbane City Council’s parks team will be taking walkers from the breathtaking views of the summit through the trail and finishing at the gardens. The walk is free but spots are limited, so book your place over at the Parks Alive website.
Bonus Mention: Coffee Cup Recycling – Saturday August 6 and Sunday August 7 at Roma Street Parkland
Coffee is a universally loved beverage but in turn it creates a whole lot of waste, with the cups being one of the most common pieces of rubbish taken to landfills. Yikes! Thankfully the Coffee Cup Recycling program invites patrons to turn trash into sustainable treasure. Hold on to your empty cup and take it to the Plant Clinic for one of the team to plant up a seedling for you to take home and tend to.
To find out more about what’s on in Brisbane, head to our Event Guide.