City of Greater Geraldton launches three workshops to tackle the invasive boxthorn weed in May and June

Three workshops aiming to tackle boxthorn — a widespread, invasive weed originating from Africa — will be launched at the end of the month. The weed grows in semi-arid inland areas through to high-rainfall coastal climates and is considered one of Australia’s most widespread weeds. Classified under Weeds of National Significance, the African boxthorn was introduced into Australia from South Africa in the mid-1800s as a hedge plant, becoming one of the most challenging weeds to keep under control. City of Greater Geraldton chief executive officer Ross McKim said boxthorn spread by seed, suckers and even root or tree pruning fragments that were left behind or dumped, taking root and growing if the area suited its needs. “It also produces flowers and fruit from old wood so pruning doesn’t help, it’s tolerant to drought, salt spray and sandblasting,” he said. “It grows in partial shade and full sun and once established it is tolerant to grazing due to its spiny nature and displaces native vegetation which reduces biodiversity values.” The City is holding three community workshops for community members to attend on Saturday, May 28 at Hillview Drive Reserve, Drummond Cove, Sunday, May 29 at Triton Place car park in Sunset Beach, and on Saturday, June 11 at Spalding Park in Chapman River Regional Park. All workshops run from 9am to 11am. “I encourage anyone who has this plant growing on their property to attend one of the workshops to learn how to combat this high invasive species with the use of Boxthorn blitz Kits,” Mr McKim said. To RSVP your attendance contact 9956 6600 or email environmentalplanning@cgg.wa.gov.au.