The first stage of a five-year plan for a 'Bequest site' next to Merri Creek in Oldis Gardens, Northcote, was completed by August 2020. The site was prepared, planted and mulched by Merri Creek Management Committee (MCMC) through the generosity of Geoff Richards. Geoff plans to leave a bequest to Friends of Merri Creek (FoMC) in memory of his partner, Harry Nash. However, he is keen to see some restoration at the site and is donating $5,000 p.a. for five years to FoMC to achieve this. The site, above a spectacular basalt escarpment, is close to where Geoff and Harry lived.
FoMC has contracted MCMC to develop the site over the next five years, tackling a fifth of the site at a time. MCMC will do the weed control and site preparation and organise community planting with indigenous plants. The whole Bequest sit' will be maintained in perpetuity, with planting and weed control undertaken as necessary.
FoMC is currently in discussion with Darebin City Council about a sign for the site which will be called The Harry Nash Indigenous Garden.
Merri Creek Management Committee. 2 Lee St, East Brunswick, Victoria, Australia 3057 