Southern Tablelands - visit STEP, National Arboretum

The STEP Garden is the Southern Tablelands Ecosystems Park.

Planted in 2009 and 2010, the Park includes trees and plants of the critically endangered 'Yellow Box/Red Gum Grassy Woodland' ecosystem. Trees are arranged in bands representative of their natural position in the landscape,  and are complemented by the Central Garden display of native understorey species typical of the forests, woodlands, grasslands and ephemeral wetlands of the local region. Understorey species are located close to the eucalypt species they commonly grow near in their natural habitat. This design enables visitors to learn about tree and understorey associations and further develop their understanding of the natural environments of the Southern Tablelands.

The STEP forest includes a small ephemeral wetland habitat for frogs, and is an educational resource where visitors and school students can learn about native and critically endangered local plant species. The forest features the notable Bush Tucker Garden, as well as The Clearing and She-oak Nook which provide spaces for groups to meet, and a place for visitors to rest, reflect or enjoy a picnic.

Understorey species are sourced from local nurseries and from growers from the Australian Native Plants Society (Canberra Region).

In 2012, STEP was invited to translocate three species from land in the Molonglo Valley that was scheduled for development. These were Chrysocephalum apiculatum (common everlasting), Eryngium ovinum (blue devil), and Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia (rock fern). The translocation was successful and all three species can now be seen flourishing among the understorey plantings.

Where is STEP?

• To visit STEP, enter the National Arboretum Canberra from the Tuggeranong Parkway.
• After passing the gates, drive up and park at the Village Centre.
• The STEP site is ‘Forest 20’ on Arboretum maps and signage. The STEP banner is clearly visible across the road on the water tank at the top of Forest 20.
• Access to Forest 20 is either via the lower carpark or via Forest 21 (Mesa Oaks). Take care crossing the main road.

Contact the group for the meeting time.

Home page photo shows Grevillea 'Lady O'. Kaye Norman, 2022.