Jocelyn Howell & Doug Benson

Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney 128pp, pb, $27.95

Much of Sydney’s beauty can be attributed to its native bushland. It is a rich and valuable resource which is often taken for granted. This book explores and promotes the diversity and wonder of Sydney’s bushland.

The book is divided into three main sections. The first sets the scene describing the geology, climate and main vegetation types. The second focuses on bushland ecology and explores a range of subjects and phenomena relating to how plants interact with each other and their environment. Ancient plant groups such as ferns and conifers, including the now-famous Wollemi Pine, are discussed, as well as the evolutionary history of Sydney’s bushland. The close association between plants and fire, soil and animals is introduced. If you have ever wondered what role ants play in the life of plants, how insectivorous plants catch and eat their prey, or how exotic weeds are changing the flora, you will find much of interest.

The final section provides the reader with the opportunity to physically explore and experience Sydney’s bushland. Various parks and reserves are introduced with information provided on their location, accessibility, the type of vegetation to be expected and characteristic plant species you are likely to encounter.

The beauty and diversity of Sydney’s bushland is well illustrated throughout the book with many excellent colour photographs. Information is easy to find and written in simple language. The book is directed towards the amateur who is interested in learning generally about Sydney’s bushland, the nature of events and processes which shape the landscape, where different plants grow and why, and where to go to see them. For those interested in following up subjects or for more serious plant identification, a list of references is provided.

This is an excellent book for both locals and visitors promoting the beauty, richness and appreciation of Sydney’s bushland, as well as providing a pathway to personal learning and enjoyment of the environment.

Step Inc, rrp $20

This is a two-sheet 1:10,000 map of the Lane Cove Valley produced by STEP, a local conservation group. It is based on topographic and cadastral data from the Land and Property Information Office with additional information from local volunteers.

Each sheet presents the bushland tracks in the valley with details of track condition shown schematically. There are notations on each map to help you keep your bearings or assess accessibility; for instance "Carved stone steps". A very useful addition for any walker's map collection.