Innovative garden space opens for visitors

Date published: 26 May 2023

Stage two of Townsville’s innovative Ecosophy Garden has been unveiled.

Ecosophy refers to the intersection of ecology and philosophy, and the garden on the corner of Walker and Stanley streets features flowers, herbs, and low-growing native shrubs to bring bees and pollinators into the city centre.

Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said he was thrilled to see the unique garden concept expand in the city.

“As a Council we have a responsibility to protect and serve our environment. This project is an opportunity for Council to work with the community to provide a fun, accessible and interesting learning opportunity,” Cr Soars said.

“The Ecosophy Garden is open for anyone to visit. Council has developed partnerships with Townsville and District Beekeepers Association, NQ Native Bees, our local Men’s Sheds, and Vinnies Blackwood Hostel to help with the upkeep and growth of the Ecosophy Garden.

“This collaboration is proof that we can work with our community to build connected, safe and inclusive neighbourhoods, even in the heart of the city.”

Cr Soars said the garden was great to visit to enjoy the flora and fauna.

“The garden is open all year round to visit, with plants like rosemary and sage, butterfly bush and marigolds, and low grevillia attracting pollinators like bees, birds and butterflies,” he said.

“It’s a beautiful spot and I’d highly recommend making the time to see how successful the Ecosophy Garden is in supporting our native pollinators.

“We have activities in our Three For Bees Calendar of Events, so check out the list and head along to some of the free activities planned for this weekend.”

Visit our Ecosophy Garden page for more information.

Free Activities
Saturday 27 May
9 - 11am
Bee Stories, facepainting and craft with Dr Kit Prendergast (Under 12s)
CityLibraries Aitkenvale
Saturday 27 May
6 - 7:30pm
Birds and Bees talk on bee mating rituals with Dr Kit Prendergast (mature audiences, adult themes)
Smart Precinct Meeting Room, 143 Walker Street, Townsville City
Sunday 28 May
9 - 11am
Bee Stories, facepainting and craft with Dr Kit Prendergast (Under 12s)
Rowes Bay Sustainability House, Cape Pallarenda Road, Pallarenda
Sunday 28 May
11:30am - 12:30pm
Creation Stories with Auntie Ros Sailor and Big Eye Theatre Dance Troupe
Rowes Bay Sustinability House, Cape Pallarenda Road, Pallarenda