Phytophthora Cinnamomi

Last week I was introduced to cinnamon fungus.  Cinnamon Fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi) is a microscopic, soil borne pathogen (disease causing organism) that attacks and destroys plant root systems causing plants to die through lack of water and nutrients. It can be spread through footwear.

Who knew that going on a bush walk (as it is referred to here) required passing through a “Cinnamon Fungus Hygiene Station?” It was a bit strange and a bit out of context. Just picture it... You park the car, start walking towards the trees and then suddenly are confronted with basically a turnstile to enter the national park. Sure, one can just jump over the turnstile, no one is watching, but that would be disrespectful to nature.

Instead, each person that enters the park has to go through an almost ritualistic sequence.

Step 1: Use the brittle brush to remove organic material from footwear.

Step 2: Depress spring-loaded footpad to immerse the soles of your shoes into chemical solution

You learn something new every day…