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Garden Planning

Well, it is truly evident that the weather has changed now! And while we might be shuddering at the thought of the cool, rainy days ahead, our gardens are surely relishing it. It’s the perfect time of year to get stuck into some garden planning, with the next few months by far the best for planting. You might be looking at a refresh with just a handful of new plants to spruce things up, or thinking large scale and looking at renovating entire garden beds. I’ve got a few tips below on how to approach planning for the planting season ahead:

• Which area of your garden receives full sun and where is it in deep shade? Draw a light map sketch, as this is often the biggest factor in whether plants will survive or not.

• What role or function does your garden play? Is it a green screen, do you want it to overhang something, are you going to incorporate edible plants, or are you wanting lots of bright, colourful flowers? Think about the purpose of your garden.

• If you’re landscaping a new patch, try sketching a garden layout. This is the base layer of your garden - think about what earthworks, garden edging, or plant removal is needed. Grab some grid paper, put on your landscape design hat, and get drawing.

• Select your species. This is the fun part, figuring out what you’re going to plant where and pulling together the lighting and functional requirements of your garden. Don't forget that native species require the least amount of maintenance and will need the least amount of soil modification. Availability is sometimes a challenge in Esperance, so check out our local nurseries for a quick squiz during your planning.

• Don't forget the final touches. While arguably not as fun, weeding, mulching and applying the appropriate fertiliser are important in making your garden bloom.

KATIE WHITE - CALADENIA CO.

“Continuing the family tradition of giving back to the community”

01 Five volunteer ambulance officers were recognised for their contribution to the Esperance branch of St John Ambulance at a ceremony in Perth on April 1. Western Australian Governor Chris Dawkins inducted Michael Ridgeway and Steve Sims into the Order of St John, while James Durrant, Kirkely Whiting, and John McQueen were awarded Commander Commendations by the Commander of the Order of St John WA, Sally Carbon.

02 Mackenzie Marine and Towage’s newest tug boat was officially named in a ceremony on April 21. The $10 million vessel was named Lillian Mac, in honour of the late Lillian Mackenzie, who established the business alongside her husband Don in 1972. Lillian’s daughters Margaret Howells and Cathy Bradley performed the champagne christening of the boat, which is driven by twin Caterpillar V16 engines and is crewed by six people.

03 The Esperance Lions Club celebrated 55 years of service to the community on April 23. Since its inception in 1968, the service club has been at the forefront of many community events, fundraising efforts, and philanthropic endeavours. Notably, the club was responsible for the establishment of Lions Park on Goldfields Road, and continues to help bring the Lions Cancer Institute Mobile Skin Cancer Screening Facility to town, providing free skin checks to locals.

04

A record crowd turned out to the Anzac Day Dawn Service on April 25, with more than 1000 people in attendance. The gunfire breakfast held at the Esperance RSL Sub-Branch after the service also received the largest sum of donations on record. It’s estimated that another 1000 - 2000 people attended the mid-morning service. Esperance was not alone in pulling record crowds, with other services across the region attracting higher numbers than previous years.

LOOKING TO BUY

Small block of land with actual or potential ocean views wanted for simple private residence. Esperance or West Beach areas preferred. Contact linarias2022@gmail. com.

OLD TIME / NEW VOGUE BALLROOM DANCING

Held at RAOB Hall every Friday, starting at 7pm. All welcomed, with or without a partner and we will teach you if you don’t know the dances. Contact Daryl on 0419370089 or Jan on 0420638851.

Public Notices

LEAF AGM

This year’s AGM is on Monday the 29th of May, starting at 5pm at the Pier Hotel. You are very welcome to stay for dinner after the meeting. Any enquires ring Jan on 0420638851.

MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC ESPERANCE

Sunday 14th May. 8km Run 7:30am or 4km Walk

8:30. Register at www. mothersdayclassic.com.au/ wa-esperance

Table Tennis Played At The Scout Hall

Thursday Mornings 9am11.00am. $5.00 each session.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE TIDE

Do you know someone missing out because they don’t live locally? Why not treat them to an Tide subscription for only $5 per month? Head to www. esperancetide.com/subscribe to sign up.

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