Who We Are
Southern Dandenongs Community Nursery Inc. (SDCN) is a not-for-profit community nursery established in 1995 following the closure of the former Shire of Sherbrooke nursery at Upwey. In response, a group of local environmental advocates came together to form a community nursery focused on local native plants.
Located within the beautiful Birdsland Reserve, Belgrave Heights, our nursery grows plants sourced from local bushland for sale to the community, environmental contractors, councils and Landcare groups.
Our Vision
We aim to nurture stronger landscapes and healthier ecosystems by empowering the community with native plants, knowledge and connection to place.
What We Believe
Local plants grow better and support local wildlife
Community action strengthens environmental outcomes
Together we can protect and restore the natural beauty of the Southern Dandenongs
Purpose
Southern Dandenongs Community Nursery Inc. (SDCN) is established to be a charity with
the purpose of preserving and enhancing the natural environment by:
- Propagating plants indigenous to the Dandenong Ranges region using locally sourced and genetically diverse material to strengthen ecosystem resilience.
- Supplying plants for habitat preservation and restoration.
- Educating the community about the ecological significance of indigenous flora and its essential relationship to local fauna and landscapes, and supporting their efforts in its protection.
- Advocating for the management and conservation of remnant bushland.
- Recognising and integrating the ecological knowledge of traditional owners to improve practices for better environmental outcomes.
- Ensuring operations are relevant to community expectations and needs.
- Providing a safe, welcoming environment to learn and share new skills and experiences that support the purpose.