Just a stone's throw from Curtin is a bushland more biodiverse than Kings Park. Find out how a team of volunteers are not only conserving that bushland, but leading a daring restoration project.

In this episode, our hosts David and Celeste are joined by plant biologist and Curtin Research Fellow, Dr Michael Just. They talk about how the Friends of Jirdarup Bushland are leading the transformation of a former rubbish dump into a pristine banksia woodland.

Michael also delves into seed sourcing and the challenges of getting anything to grow in a sandpit.

Why urban bushland matters [01:10]
The current state of Perth’s bushland [01:51]
Restoration challenges [02:40]
Jirdarup Bushland an urban oasis [03:47]
Innovative planting techniques [09:14]
Become a Friend of Jirdarup [16:55]

Note: the introduction incorrectly stated the sandpit is on track to become the world's first fully-restored banksia woodland; it is set to be one of a few successfully restored woodland areas.

Episode feature image: Red-capped robin by Georgina Wilson.

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Connect with our guests

Dr Michael Just

Michael is a plant biologist with expertise in seed dormancy, germination physiology, and restoration ecology. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy from Curtin University, where he conducted research on intractable seed dormancy and its impact on biodiversity in Southwest Australia.

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Transcript

Read the transcript: https://thefutureof.simplecast.com/episodes/urban-bushland/transcript

Behind the scenes

Host: David Karsten and Celeste Fourie
Producer: Emilia Jolakoska
Researcher: Zoe Taylor
Executive Producer: Natasha Weeks

First Nations Acknowledgement

Curtin University acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the First Peoples of this place we call Australia, and the First Nations peoples connected with our global campuses. We are committed to working in partnership with Custodians and Owners to strengthen and embed First Nations’ voices and perspectives in our decision-making, now and into the future.

Curtin University supports academic freedom of speech. The views expressed in The Future Of podcast may not reflect those of Curtin University.