A Blackheath resident and TAFE NSW student is paving the future of bush regeneration in the Blue Mountains to show locals how their household gardens can have a positive impact on the unique ecosystem that surrounds the World Heritage destination.

The Blue Mountains is home to 10 per cent of endangered flora and fauna species in NSW, illustrating the importance of effective land management in preserving its diversity.1 Almost 20 per cent of the Blue Mountains world heritage area burnt in the NSW bushfires.

Thomas Pogson is studying a Certificate III in Landscape Construction at TAFE NSW Wentworth Falls where he is learning essential skills in plant management, bush regeneration, paving, and water feature construction. After receiving his first-class honours in Ecology at university, Thomas turned to TAFE NSW to gain practical skills to become a certified Structural Landscape Contractor in his local area to show people how they can best landscape their backyard to benefit their surrounding environment.

Thomas has been working for local company Bush Doctor since 2013 and through his research and experience in the industry said locals played an important role in regenerating the Blue Mountains.

“There is a great opportunity, especially in the Blue Mountains, to blend bushland management with household gardens. Each backyard has the potential to have a positive impact on the surrounding ecosystem by providing a safe habitat and a continuity of landscape for migratory fauna,” Thomas said.

“I want to help people realise their potential to provide havens in their backyard and manage their land more effectively.”

Thomas said in the seven years he has worked in the industry he had seen a void in incorporating bushland management in people’s landscape design, which was part of the reason he chose to study at TAFE NSW and become a certified Structural Landscape Contractor.

“I enjoy studying the Certificate III in Landscape Construction because there are always opportunities to learn new practical, hands-on skills and acquire more knowledge through this trade,” he said.

TAFE NSW Environmental Studies teacher, Rick Toovey, said Thomas was a shining example of the impact a career in landscape construction can have on the environment.

“It is fantastic to see Thomas applying the practical skills and experience gained during his studies to help the environment, especially after a devastating bushfire season. 

“His important work will ensure the next generation of Australians and tourists will be able to enjoy the beautiful ecosystem that is the Blue Mountains,” Mr Toovey said.

To find out more about studying Landscape Construction at TAFE NSW, visit https://www.tafensw.edu.au/courses/horticulture-courses, or call 131 601.

Media Contact: Jessica Cortis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, 0456 270 211