Research | Educate | Create
Freshwater Ecosystems
Natural pools | Waterfalls | Creeks | Wetlands
Where there’s freshwater, there’s Life.
At Flo Gardens, we create living freshwater ecosystems, restoring the natural flow of water across the landscape.
Our mission is to protect and regenerate one of the planet’s most vital resources — freshwater.
Through natural pools, waterfalls, and creek restorations, we bring water back to life, supporting thriving ecosystems and healthy communities.
Why a Flo Garden Natural Pool
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![A woman drinking water from its hands, in a lake, and a waterfall on the background]()
Swim in water so pure, you could drink it
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![Underwater photo of a young Girl swimming in a natural pool]()
A crystal-clear natural swimming pool where you can snorkel
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![underwater photo of a small empire gudgeon fish swimming]()
An underwater ecosystem
Health
Benefits
A natural pool or waterfall is more than just a place to swim—it’s a living wellness space that soothes the nervous system, encourages mindful presence, and reconnects us with the natural world.
Negative ions are naturally created where water is moving with force—such as waterfalls, ocean waves, or streams tumbling over rocks. Some of the health benefits of breathing in negative ions and listening to the sound of running water are:
Improves respiratory function
Reduces depression
Lowers blood pressure
Improves sleep quality
Reduces stress and anxiety
Boosts mood
Improves mental clarity
Flo Gardens Community
Upcoming Events
Join Our Freshwater Ecosystems Experience.
During this experience we will take a in depth look at the wonders and importance of freshwater ecosystems of the Northern Rivers and how you can be part of the solution.
- Understanding the importance of freshwater ecosystems
- Freshwater Creatures & Their Habitats
- Ecosystem Pond Breakdown
- The Role of Algae
- Natural Pools vs Conventional Pools
- Pond Care & Maintenance
- Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle
- Growing food from your ecosystem
Morning Tea Included
Join us for a hands-on experience where you'll discover the magic of freshwater ecosystems and natural swimming pools.
9.00am -12:30pm
37 Warwick Park Rd, Sleepy Hollow
This is the first step for anyone thinking of getting a Flo Garden or any land restoration work around freshwater ecosystems.
What to Expect?
During this experience we will take an in depth look at the wonders and importance of freshwater ecosystems of the Northern Rivers and how you can be part of the solution.
- Understanding the importance of freshwater ecosystems: Discover how critical our freshwater ecosystems are for the survival of the natural environment in the Northern Rivers. Explore how our culture and belief systems have shaped the Northern Rivers.
- Freshwater Creatures & Their Habitats: Learn to identify local native species and understand the conditions they need to thrive.
- Ecosystem Pond Breakdown: Explore the key components that make an ecosystem pond work—and how they all connect.
- The Role of Algae: Find out why algae is more helpful than harmful, and its important role in a healthy aquatic system.
- Flo Garden Health Benefits Discover the health benefits of freshwater ecosystems and how they differ from traditional swimming pools.
- Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle: Discover how nutrients move through an ecosystem and why this cycle is essential for life in the water.
- Pond Care & Maintenance: Get practical insights into what it takes to maintain a thriving ecosystem pond.
- Citizen Science: Explore our new monitoring guide so you can connect with confidence to your Flo Gardens as well as contributing to the ecological health of the Northern Rivers through our broader R&D programs.
- Growing food from your ecosystem: Understand how you can grow food for yourself and family within your freshwater ecosystem.
Morning Tea Included
Join us for a hands-on experience where you'll discover the magic of freshwater ecosystems and natural swimming pools.
9.00am -12:30pm
37 Warwick Park Rd, Sleepy Hollow
Cost $100 is per family/household