Woodlands Town Park East

 

Stop 4: Woodlands Town Park East

As I was exploring how to get to the next station, I found this mysterious park nearby. 

It was particularly unusual for two reasons. Firstly, it was not a listed park on NParks. Secondly, it was so near my house, yet I have not heard of it before.

I went to investigate.

The park is located atop a hill, almost like it was carved into the hillside. It looked too maintained to be an accident and there was no way NParks would not know about a place like this.

According to Mothership SG, this garden was started by a fellow community member who was passionate about gardening. It is rather unknown, but is full of curated local botanicals. For more information, refer to this article https://mothership.sg/2022/06/woodlands-botanical-garden/

Word of caution… Be careful of swarms of red ants as you make your way up the stairs. They do not hesitate to bite you if you get in their way.

 

 

I could see why the garden serves as a refuge for wildlife. As I explored on, I couldn’t help but notice the park’s carefully curated collection of flora and fauna, some of which I have never seen before. Can you recognise some of these flowers and plants?

 

   

As I was pondering what it meant that this park was home to wildlife, I began to ponder over the meaning of wildlife. Can’t insects and small birds be considered wildlife too? Providing a home for these creatures are also as important as conservation efforts in our rainforests or our mangroves. Caring about our whole ecosystem is part of sustainability as well.

The Top of the Hill

 

  As I take in the panoramic view from the top of the hill, I am simply amazed by the refreshing scenery that surrounds me. The view from the hilltop offers a unique perspective of the Marsiling neighbourhood. Viewing  Woodlands from this perspective shows me a peaceful and private side of the busy  and bustling neighbourhood. It's a moment of tranquility that comes few and far between. 

    

The Rubber Tree

 

It was then I met a lone rubber tree, which was being taken care of by the park. This is my first time encountering the rubber tree that was such a valuable cash crop for Singapore in the past. Woodlands used to be an area which grew the rubber trees that produced Singapore’s rubber. Now, there are no longer rubber tree plantations in Singapore. Now by itself, this magnificent yet lonely tree serves as one of the few reminders of Singapore’s economic past. 

More information about the rubber tree.

On the way down, I saw a lot of young trees being grown. It is clear how the community show their love for conservation and nature as a queue of young trees greet me on the way down the hill. They continue the life and moves the future of conservation forward.

 

    

 

                                    My final thoughts                                                                 I have no regrets taking this unconventional route during my journey as it turned out to be an extremely beneficial experience. This park showcases the impact of human efforts towards sustainability. The park is a testament to the collective efforts of the community towards a common goal. It is evident that human potential is not limited and can create wonders like this park. I highly recommend a visit to this serene and engaging park, especially if you are interested in admiring a rubber tree.