The past 21 years have seen backyards across the City of Kalamunda transform with residents taking home close to 220,000 free plants from the City’s annual Plants for Residents Days.  

This year’s events, hosted at High Wycombe Community and Recreation Centre and Gooseberry Hill Hall across two weekends in May, saw residents turn out in record numbers. Queues reached double digits shortly after 7:00am, two hours before the events’ scheduled start time.

Mayor John Giardina said, “We are delighted to see the City’s Free Plants for Residents Days continue to grow year on year.”

“This program is all about coming together to enhance our urban forest. Our community is passionate about preserving and growing our natural environment, which is why this program is so special to the City and to our residents.”

2019 saw more than 16,500 plants given away.

“It’s not just about getting something for free. It’s about the education and opportunity that comes with it. Residents are inspired to do something positive for their local environment, starting in their own backyard.  Feedback from residents suggests plants they have received in past years have helped transform their gardens and attract local wildlife.”

“We trust that inspiration grows, as they continue to enhance their backyard, join a local Friends Group or get involved in a community planting day. We are very lucky to be able to share this program with our residents, which as we understand, is provided by only a small handful of local governments in Perth.”

Residents were able to obtain up to 15 free plants per rateable property, offered on a first come first serve basis until they ran out. Over 50 native plant species were included on this year’s giveaway list, which will help residents improve their yard’s water efficiency and attract native wildlife.

Mayor John Giardina has hailed the long-standing event a major success.

“We always receive an overwhelmingly positive response from participants, who are grateful for the opportunity to be involved. The event’s longevity proves it a big success and we are so excited for its return in 2020.”

More Information

View details on the Free Plants for Residents program here.
Alternatively, contact the City of Kalamunda on 9257 9999 or enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au.