More than just a patch of soil, the garden is a place of sanctuary for freelance horticulturist and sustainability educator Claire Bickle.
Freshly returned from a two-week journey through Africa, camera in hand and plenty of memories made, Claire will be sharing her knowledge as part of Plant-A-Palooza, a free event in Caboolture on 14 March.
When not venturing overseas, you’ll find Claire in the one place that feels like home, the garden.
“It’s where I reconnect with nature and myself,” she said. “And disconnect from the everyday hustle and bustle of life.”
That grounding philosophy sits at the heart of Claire’s work as a presenter, writer, speaker, tour leader and passionate educator. Writing and photography are also a big part of her life and another way to share her love of plants, but when it comes to favourites, Claire can’t just pick one.
“Impossible question,” she said. “There are too many plants I love, for too many reasons.”
Claire’s Plant-A-Palooza session on the main stage at Caboolture Library focuses on organic gardening, offering practical, achievable tips for creating a self-sufficient, chemical-free garden. From soil health to natural pest control, Claire said her approach is empowering rather than prescriptive, designed to meet gardeners where they are at on their own journey.
Growing Expertise at Plant-A-Palooza Caboolture
She said she was also passionate about encouraging budding gardeners to deepen their skills.
“Anyone can be a gardener, but to be a horticulturist, plant expert, designer or permaculturist you need to take that extra step for that deeper understanding and knowledge,” Claire said. “Taking the leap into study, through institutions such as TAFE, helps to build the understanding that turns enthusiasm into expertise.”
Plant-A-Palooza unfolds across the Town Square, Caboolture Library and the Caboolture Regional Art Gallery. Visitors can create clay sculptures with artist Nadine Schmoll, learn about native bees with Sarah Hamilton, and explore bushfoods, kokedama and veggie gardening. Inside the gallery, conversations around art and agriculture continue with artists Kaya Barry and Joe Furlonger, plus a weaving circle with Libby Harward.
The event, part of the Grow It Local program by City of Moreton Bay, invites everyone to dig in, learn and grow.
Plant-A-Palooza Caboolture
- Saturday, 14 March, 10am-2pm
- Caboolture Library
- 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture
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