Botanic Gardens donates bamboo to zoo

GEELONG Botanic Gardens has donated 12 cubic metres of bamboo to the Werribee Open Range Zoo.

The initiative not only benefits zoo animals, but also diverts bamboo from landfill.

The donation features two bamboo varieties: the robust Bambusa balcooa, known for its thick walls and clumping nature, and the Phyllostachys aurea, which is often dubbed ‘fairyland bamboo’ and is a popular choice for garden displays.

Despite its captivating name, ‘fairyland bamboo’ is notorious for its tendency to overshadow other species.

Councillor Peter Murrihy said the move was a win for the zoo but also the gardens.

“The decision to donate the bamboo came from the need to address the impact of its growth on the heritage trees within the Geelong Botanic Gardens, particularly the Ginkgo biloba.”

“Our Ginkgo biloba is a female tree and is an outstanding specimen, which is a native of China and by far the largest in Victoria and presumably Australia.”

Ginkgo trees can boast a lifespan exceeding 1000 years and were among the few organisms to withstand the 1945 atomic bomb explosion in Hiroshima.

Yet even they are no match for unchecked bamboo.

“We recognise the importance of controlling the bamboo’s expansion to ensure the protection of our heritage trees,” Cr Murrihy said.

“By making species of significance our priority, the removal of any plantings that are inhibiting the natural growth is part of our obligation to protect this magnificent tree and others like it. As a result, we remain aligned with preserving our Botanic Gardens.”

Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan said the collaboration with Zoos Victoria highlights the significance of working together to achieve shared environmental goals.

“We can’t think of a better place than Werribee Open Range Zoo for our bamboo to be donate.”