Weed Monster Built in Bushland

Throughout September, while weeds are sparking into life under sunshine and Spring rains, a giant Weed Monster is growing in the workshop area behind the new $3 million Arts and Ecology Centre in the Maroochy Bushland Botanical Gardens.
Despite the name, the Gardens are actually tucked between Tanawha and Forest Glen (UBD Map 77 N17).
Designed by weed weaver Judith Wolski, the unique Weed Monster (made of bamboo ribs and woven with kilometres of Morning Glory vine then adorned with silk hand-dyed from weeds by Hunchy textile artist Christine Elcoate) has been growing gradually, thanks to contributions from weed-buster ecoart workshops held in ten libraries across the Sunshine Coast last week (Weedbuster Week).
School holiday FREE workshops on two mornings: Wednesday 21 and Wednesday 28 September from 9am until 12 noon will complete this remarkable monster, who entices weavers of all ages to collaborate in its creation. A great opportunity for grandparents entertaining visiting grandchildren during the holidays. Bookings not necessary. For further information: PH Jill Morris 07 5494 3000.
The comprehensive 2011 Weedbuster project was sparked by four short entertaining films on weeds made by members of the Maleny Film Cooperative Ltd, a dynamic local organisation which has grown remarkably like the Weed Monster, over only two years.
The four films, made by Jill Morris, Jess Begun, Leanne Farmiloe and Christine Elcoate, will be small-screened in Peace of Green Gallery 38 Maple Street Maleny on Friday 16 September continuously between 9.30am and 5pm. Come along and watch the films and spot yourself and dozens of other Maleny locals!
Picture: Judy and Richard Wolski attaching the neck of the Weed Monster at the Maroochy Botanic Gardens.