One of the Gold Coast’s lesser-known natural gems, Schuster Park in Tallebudgera reaches a major milestone in May and the Gold Coast community is invited to join the celebration. Gecko – Gold Coast and Hinterland Environment Council has been leading this project in partnership with the Gold Coast City Council whilst the project has been funded by the Australian Government.
Project Manager, David Taylor said that while the project had delivered countless environmental benefits, the real surprise lies in its delivery of skills and training to local long-term unemployed people.
“As well as removing 20 different types of weeds and planting more than 8000 plants we have also helped local people increase their skills and trained them in environmental restoration work,” said David. “We’re restoring an important natural asset back to its former glory and we’re helping create community jobs and education opportunities.”
As well as being an environmental asset, Schuster Park has significant heritage value. It was one of the first sites settled on the Gold Coast when people came looking for good farming land. Some of the area’s long-standing residents will be at the community celebration to share their stories.
“The Schuster family was amongst the first non-Indigenous families to settle the area and have been active community members ever since,” David said. “And long-time Burleigh resident Fred Short is now 100 years old, but was a pioneer bush regenerator at Schuster Park. We are hoping these community legends will join us for the community celebration to share stories and history of the local area”.
Schuster Park is located at Heather Road, Tallebudgera. The community celebration, with the theme “Schuster Park through many re-generations”, will take place on Saturday 7 May from 10.00 am and all are welcome. The day will included guided eco-tours, children’s activities and native plant giveaways.
For more information, please email Anna at events@gecko.org.au or call Cheryl at Gecko House on 5534 1412.
To view the Schusters Park project please click here
