Rewilding creates a haven for wildlife and humans
18 Wiradjuri Close, Putta Bucca
Author: Jane Munro
Entering John McCrea’s property at 18 Wiradjuri Close, Putta Bucca via an avenue of claret ash, the extensive lawn areas with established deciduous trees and broad beds of flowering perennials reveal enticing secluded pathways and pleasing vistas. The house block is bordered by tall hedges of photinia and honeysuckle, and an avenue of pines. Around the perimeter of the block’s 5 acres, John has planted hundreds of native trees- particularly casuarinas and callistemons. The birds love this garden, with 125 species recorded over 23 years.
John’s garden reflects his dedication to conservation and love of wildlife. Shrubs such as buddleia, grevillea and callistemon attract and provide safe refuges for small birds and butterflies. Fallen branches are sometimes left in situ to encourage organisms essential for healthy soil. In spring the lawn area blooms over months with several varieties of naturalised golden daffodils, flowering in waves over the season.
Bird baths and nest boxes attract Striated Pardalotes, Eastern Rosellas and King Parrots for breeding. A romantic style garden close to the house features iceberg roses, and a magnificent display of cannas. You may see Eastern Spinebills hovering as they sip nectar from the salvia flowers, or Superb Blue Wrens splashing in the bird bath. Several varieties of finches provide entertainment as they feed from the elegant bird feeder which John designed and built.
John created a rewilded mini wetland by excavating into a low-lying area and planting a few casuarinas and callistemons around the perimeter. Over 20 years, visiting water birds have brought in species including cumbungi, phragmites, swamp lily, cyperus and spiny rush on their feet. These are all now flourishing in this thriving, rewilded aquatic ecosystem.
