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Makuru is here Today marks the beginning of Makuru (June and July), known as the Nyungar season of fertility and the first rains—a time that brings in the coldest and wettest period of the year. It's a season marked by animal pairing as they prepare for breeding. Keep an eye out for pairs of 'Wardongs' (Ravens) gracefully flying together, a departure from their usual solo calls, and across our wetlands you'll start to see an increase in Mali (Black Swans) as they get ready for nesting and breeding.
Amidst this season, vibrant blues and purples emerge in the form of the Blueberry Lilly (Dianella revoluta) and Purple Flags (Patersonia occidentalis), adding a colourful touch to the landscape.
Source: Bureau of Meteorology and Derbal Nara. Image: Katy Standley |
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It's getting cooler... With the new season of Makuru comes cooler weather and rains, to help you prepare try these easy steps: - Clear gutters and fix roof leaks
- Seal cracks and gaps to prevent heat loss (up to 20%)
- Adjust ceiling fans to winter mode to circulate warm air downwards
- Utilise residual oven heat by leaving the door open after cooking
- Draw curtains in the evenings to retain warmth
- Close doors to unused spaces and moderate thermostat to 18-20°C
- Prioritise personal warmth over extensive heating to improve energy efficiency
- Embrace layers, blankets, warm beverages, and energy-efficient solutions like electric throw blankets.
By making small changes at home, you can reduce your impact on the environment, increase resilience to climate change, and save money on your energy bills, plus many of these tricks cost you nothing! | |
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| Free Home Eco-Audits for residents Ready to save money and go green? Cockburn residents don't miss out on our FREE Home Eco-Audits this winter! Limited spots available, where experts will guide you in reducing water and energy use at home. Act now and start making eco-friendly changes today! | Find out more |
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| Waterwise Verge Rebate now open Discover the benefits of a Waterwise verge! Save water and promote local biodiversity with our rebate program. Get up to $250 back, along with 30 free plants and soil improver. The next collection date is Saturday 15 June, apply now to create your own Waterwise verge. | Find out more |
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| Sustainability Grants open all year Ready to make a difference in Cockburn? Apply for our Sustainability Grants today! Grants of up to $4,000 are available for projects promoting community development, climate resilience, and more. Don't miss out-apply now and help create a greener, healthier future for our community! | Find out more |
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How are the trees doing? Summer 2024 brought extreme heat and a lack of rain, leaving Perth’s trees suffering. The University of Western Australia's Centre for Water and Spatial Science (CWSS) is studying the impact of these conditions on the urban canopy. To understand tree vulnerability and resilience, they need help verifying their findings. CWSS are asking citizen scientists to collect on-ground data by visiting local bushlands, parks, or streets and recording tree health. You can get involved by completing a tree health form or volunteering for more extensive field studies. | |
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Nature Discovery Day Wednesday 3 July |
| We’re coming to South Lake in July! Join us at Bloodwood Park to immerse yourself in nature and connect with your local community. Enjoy FREE guided walks, fun activities, and learn about your local ecosystem. Be sure to register for our: - Guided walk
- Nature Storytime Trek (under 5s)
- Planting activity
- Boodjar Biddi cultural walk.
Plus, Connecting South Lake will be hosting a FREE sausage sizzle, and Gingernut Coffee will be on-site for your caffeine fix! |
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| Community planting days June and July |
| The rainy months of June and July provide the ideal conditions for planting new seedlings. Join our FREE and enjoyable planting events this season, where you can contribute to enhancing habitat and biodiversity within conservation reserves. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events: Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference. Register today! |
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Waste and recycling workshops |
| Join our workshops to transform your lifestyle, reduce waste, and empower yourself to make a positive impact on the environment! Join us at one of our upcoming waste reduction workshops in June and July: |
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Cockburn Nyungar moort Beeliar boodja‑k kaadadjiny. Koora, yeyi, benang baalap nidja boodja‑k kaaradjiny. Cockburn acknowledges the Nyungar people of Beeliar boodja. Long ago, now and in the future they care for country. |
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