Western Landcare NSW Inc.

Healing Through Green: Native Bee Habitat Workshop at Imperial Lakes Nature Park

This community-driven, creative and educational workshop engaged residents of Broken Hill in building native bee hotels to support biodiversity, foster environmental awareness, and strengthen community wellbeing. Hosted at Imperial Lakes Nature Park, the event was part of a broader Western Landcare initiative focused on restoring public green spaces and supporting mental health through hands-on, place-based environmental action.

Capacity building - LP045

The issue

Broken Hill residents face limited access to inviting, green public spaces, as well as rising levels of social isolation and eco-anxiety. A lack of awareness around native pollinators—especially solitary bees—has contributed to declining habitat opportunities in both natural and urban environments.

The solution

Western Landcare delivered a “Native Bee Hotel” workshop at Imperial Lakes Nature Park, offering a practical, inclusive, and creative way to engage people with nature. Participants learned about the role of native bees, constructed bee hotels using natural and recycled materials, and contributed to local habitat restoration efforts. The event also included time for social connection, artistic expression, and quiet reflection outdoors.

The impact

The event drew over 25 participants from a diverse mix of ages, cultural backgrounds, and community sectors. Over 15 bee hotels were built and installed throughout the park. The workshop successfully combined art, environmental stewardship, and mental health support—strengthening social ties and promoting ecological awareness in a fun and supportive environment.

Facebook data showed an immediate and positive impact on local engagement, with 111 visits to the event page on the day, 171 reactions to workshop content, 50 new followers, and 7 new group members on May 31. This shows the workshop resonated deeply with the community, both on the ground and online.

Learnings

What worked well:

  • High public interest in pollinator species and biodiversity
  • The hands-on, artistic nature of the activity promoted mental wellbeing and inclusivity
  • The outdoor park setting supported social connection and relaxation
  • Collaboration with local artists and environmental educators added creative value
  • Strong social media engagement significantly increased local visibility and interest in Landcare

What could be improved:

  • More shaded seating and accessibility features for future outdoor workshops
  • Advanced preparation of recycled materials to ensure supply meets demand
Author: Selen Nazmiye Bilal

Key facts

  • • Date: 31 May 2025
  • • Location: Imperial Lakes Nature Park, Broken Hill
  • • Focus Areas: Mental health, biodiversity, creative expression, community engagement
  • • Participants: 25+
  • • Bee Hotels Constructed: 15+
  • • Social Media Impact:
  • * 111 event page visits
  • * 171 content reactions
  • * 50 new page followers
  • * 7 new group members
  • • Creative Element: Use of natural and recycled materials; community art-making