Wardandi Flora Reserve shared with Australind community as botanists take residents on a ‘wild wonder’

Botanists are excited to share the spring spirit of one of Australind’s natural hidden gems with the community. Wardandi Flora Reserve has been used as a rubbish tip, unofficial campground and hoon spot in the past but the nature reserve is actually protected land and classified as a Class A reserve. The Australind Bushcare Council, along with keen Australind flower enthusiasts, took part in a “wild wander” through the now-blooming reserve at the weekend. Guide Peter Eckersley, pictured, said anyone could park and enjoy the reserve, but the walk helped people appreciate the biodiversity of 100 native plant species in the area. “September is usually the best month but different things flower at different times of the year so it is worth keeping it up,” he said. Mr Eckersley said the bushcare council had been looking after the reserve after members discovered it was Class A-listed. However, he said the reserve was still under threat with illegal camping and a hoon recently breaking the reserve’s fence.