BUSINESS Port Stephens (BPS) recognised many years ago that if the township of Nelson Bay was to remain looking the way the community expected it to, they would need to instigate a program which would tackle the task.

Working in collaboration with Port Stephens Council, BPS kicked off the Nelson Bay Civic Pride project with a working bee.

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Then came the task of finding volunteers who would care for the town’s gardens on an ongoing basis.

Margaret Wilkinson, a volunteer with the Nelson Bay Civic Pride Group since its inception, said the group is seeking more volunteers to continue their work.

“We are looking for the early risers or those willing to go out late afternoon to water the gardens over the expected hot summer months ahead,” Margaret said.

Since the beginning, the group has committed to bringing colour and variety to Nelson Bay town gardens.

“The feedback volunteers receive from visitors and locals alike when working in the gardens tells us that we are doing something we should be really proud of.

“Some of our volunteers have propagated the plants which are now thriving.”

The group still works closely with Council to maintain the town’s vibrant appearance.

“We were pleased to receive funding assistance from Port Stephens Council earlier in the year to restore and brighten the gardens following the Woolworths pedestrian crossing changes.”

The latest Nelson Bay Civic Pride Group working bee was held last week.

“We were even more delighted to receive a micro-grant to help with the costs of the working bee we had today to revamp a couple of gardens which were presenting visibility issues for pedestrians,” Margaret said.

Once again much of the preparation work was organised by Council officers, who removed previous plants and brought in soil.

The working bee was also supported by local school students.

“It was really pleasing to see the students from the Tomaree High School Student Representative Council get busy helping our volunteers out today,” Margaret said.

The group’s work is made possible by a number of community sponsors.

“We are grateful for the sponsors of the gardens who donate each year to help with ongoing costs.

“The Christmas Bush Garden Club members now sponsor and take care of the area around near the stage and the adjoining garden and they are doing a great job,” she said.

Port Stephens Council Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson is another long standing member of the group.

“Since the inception of the Nelson Bay Civic Pride Group I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the team that works hard to make Nelson Bay look and feel beautiful.

“I love attending the working bees and helping out with the watering of the gardens; it gives me a great feeling of pride and joy in my hometown.

“I appreciate and thank our civic pride leader Marg Wilkinson, and all of the amazing volunteers who look after the beautiful gardens of Nelson Bay,” she said.

The Nelson Bay Civic Pride Group is proof that many hands make light work.

And their efforts will see Nelson Bay looking beautiful for the upcoming holiday season.

If you would like to get involved in the Nelson Bay Civic Pride Group, contact Business Port Stephens on 0455 844 751.

By Marian SAMPSON