By Jessica Gerger – President of FOKC and Creek Geek.
The Bug Rug is one of six main Friends of Kororoit Creek sites. It sprung to life nine years ago when we worked with a local school on a creek adoption patch.
Back then, there was a lone gum tree in a vast expanse of mown weedy grass. Colonisation had done its worst. Not much wildlife, people just passing by. That little patch grew and grew, until it was transformed into a richly biodiverse revegetation oasis – packed with thousands of Indigenous plants and carpets (or rugs!) of wildflowers hosting every imaginable insect. Every corner teeming with life.
To add depth, fun, and character we consulted with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, and working with Aboriginal artist Fiona Clarke, artist Ken McKean and multiple sponsors, Walan Walan was born – a glow-in-the-dark rock carving representing animals from the Wurundjeri seasonal cycle. Meaning ‘circle or round’ in Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung language, Walan Walan has become a special meeting place, connecting people to this ancient land.
We also created a nature play area for children with logs, rocks and plantings forming dry creek beds and bridges, fortresses, things to jump off and run around. Designed by member Susie it is popular with local families, parent groups and schools.
Mike Nicholls designed five striking sculptures that double as bug hotels. We piloted a direct seeding project, which flourished so beautifully that we’ve since expanded the technique. Frog bogs and habitat features were installed, along with seating areas to encourage people to linger and observe. Beautiful ceramic signs form a Wildlife Treasure Hunt by Ursula Dutkiewicz, showing visitors the incredible array of species spotted here. At the entrance, a happy mural by Liz Dalgleish from Studio Hibiscus – incorporating artwork by local students welcomes everyone to this special place.
We’re “down the creek” two to three times a week. Our members agree that we benefit in so many ways – our physical and mental health, connectivity, closeness to nature – all do wonders for us and the environment.
Our member Ursula says: “We’ve taken a blank canvas and turned it into a work of art…it really makes my heart warm when I know that I have been a part of that…The more plants we’re putting in – the more I’m watching birdlife and the insects and so many new species arrive and it’s wonderful… I’ve found a community of people who make my life so much happier.”
Member Esme says: “I like seeing the transformation, it’s gone from what you could call a sheep’s paddock to a beautiful area. We hope it inspires people to realise the potential of what they can do in their own yards. I love the children’s play area – I’ve seen parents go down with their littlies and gather and have picnics. That’s happened as a result of the garden being created. It’s become a community focus and asset.”
Agreed! The site now hums with birdsong, insect life, fascinating fungi and the rustle of reptiles in the grasses. Every visit brings a new discovery. It’s a stunning tribute to what’s possible when people come together to care for a place.
We adore the Bug Rug, just as we do all our sites along the creek. With continued love and care, we look forward to seeing them growing bigger, healthier, and ever more alive – for the people who come to enjoy them and for our precious wildlife.
Want to visit or get involved? We have plenty of patches and passion projects that need input, and it’s a great way to meet new people! Find out more at fokc.org.au.
