New 'Mr Fluffy' Forest Shelter officially opened - A place of reflection
A location in the Black tupelo forest with sweeping views of Canberra was the site chosen for the newly opened Forest Shelter. This place of reflection provides a space to sit, learn, reflect, and acknowledge the loss of lives and homes, as well as much-loved belongings and gardens that had to be left behind for the safety of our community. It also informs new residents and visitors to this significant part of Canberra’s history.
The presence of loose fill asbestos insulation, more commonly known to Canberrans as ‘Mr Fluffy’, was installed in properties across the ACT between 1968 and 1980. More than 1,000 homes across Canberra have been demolished due to 'Mr Fluffy', which had a lasting impact on families, communities, and tradespeople. It is important that lessons learnt from the past are not forgotten and are used to help shape a safer community now and into the future.
The forest shelter also provides a space for education about the surrounding landscape. Rocky outcrops are scattered across the Arboretum, with one located nearby this forest shelter. These rocks are colourfully covered with mosses and lichens. These delicate life forms provide habitat for small insects, slowly break down rocks to release minerals, and help to form new soil. While they may be small, the mosses and lichens play an important role in the ecosystem.
We thank the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) for their generous donation that enabled this place of reflection to be installed. The new forest shelter is now open to visit and enjoy in the Black tupelo forest #43. To view the Arboretum Map, click here.
Forest Shelters are one of the many sponsorship opportunities available at the Arboretum. If you are interested in sponsoring a Forest Shelter or other projects on offer, click here to see the different ways you can support us.