Garden gates are about to swing open across Busselton and Dunsborough, inviting locals to discover inspiring native landscapes, meet passionate gardeners and uncover the secrets of creating thriving backyard habitats.
Tickets are now on sale for the inaugural Bay OK Open Native Gardens Weekend on 10 to 11 October, with a packed program of exclusive garden visits, guided walks through local reserves, expert-led workshops and opportunities to connect with fellow nature lovers.
For one weekend only, visitors will gain access to a collection of remarkable private native gardens not normally open to the public. From creative landscaping ideas and wildlife-friendly features to stunning displays of local plant species, each garden tells a unique story of how native gardening can transform outdoor spaces into vibrant havens for both people and nature.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can hear directly from garden hosts and attend workshops on native plants, habitat gardening, soil health and wildlife-friendly landscapes, led by some of the region’s most knowledgeable horticulturalists, ecologists and naturalists.
Hosted by GeoCatch, the weekend program has something to entice every level of gardener, whether you’re an experienced green thumb, a curious beginner or simply looking for a unique springtime adventure.
Saturday’s program in Busselton includes entry to four private native gardens, workshops on native gardening and habitat creation, and a guided walk through Ambergate Reserve. Visitors can also tour the Geographe Community Landcare Nursery and seek advice from local native plant experts.
On Sunday, activities move to Dunsborough, where visitors can explore a large native garden on a rural property, learn about FireWise gardening, join a guided wildflower walk and attend workshops on soil health and wildlife-friendly gardening.
GeoCatch Executive Manager Drew McKenzie, said the event was a chance for the community to discover what’s possible when native plants are put at the centre of garden design.
“Visitors will be able to gather ideas for their own gardens, hear directly from experienced gardeners and learn how they can support local wildlife while creating attractive outdoor spaces,” said Drew.
“It’s also a celebration of the role local gardens play in supporting birds, pollinators and wildlife while helping to protect the health of our waterways and the unique environment of Geographe Bay.”
Bay OK Project Officer Lisa Massey said this is a rare opportunity to explore inspiring native gardens while gaining practical ideas they can take home.
“Visitors will have the chance to step inside gardens they would never normally see and learn how native plants can bring colour, biodiversity and resilience to their own backyards,” said Lisa.
Several activities have limited places available and GeoCatch encourages people to book early. Open garden locations will be provided to ticket holders prior to the event.
To view the full program and purchase tickets, visit: https://events.humanitix.com/bay-ok-open-native-gardens
This event is hosted by GeoCatch and supported by Water Corporation, the City of Busselton as well as Healthy Estuaries WA and Revitalising Geographe Waterways, State Government initiatives to improve the health of our South West estuaries.
