We honour and respect all Elders and Traditional Custodians of the lands the Botanic Gardens of Sydney stand on. We acknowledge the lands as significant historical, ceremonial and traditional trade grounds.
Learn to build a cubby from natural materials. Cubbies are a great way to escape the heat or wet weather, and are an inspiring place to relax with a book or binoculars!
What you need
Natural materials (found on the ground) such as:
Sticks - Y-shaped sticks and straight sticks in various sizes
Old palm leaves or other suitable wall-covering materials
Your imagination
How to build a cubby
Follow one of our Master Educators in the step by step instructional video to build your own sheltered cubby, or follow the instructions below:
Collect materials for frame, wall and cover. This includes at least two Y-shaped sticks, straight sticks in various lengths and wall coverings such as palm fronds and large leaves.
It is important to collect materials that have already detached from their tree or plant. Do not pick materials that are still growing on their host!
Start your cubby frame by locking together your Y-shaped sticks. Ensure they are stable and standing independently.
Enclose your cubby with the straight sticks. Make sure you keep an opening that you’ll fit through!
Once the walls are framed well enough, it’s time to add your coverings. Place the palm fronds carefully on the frame. It’s getting close to completion, but patience is key! Do not climb under the cubby yet!
Give your cubby a final check to ensure it is stable and safe for playing under.
Relax or play, by yourself or with friends! Enjoy!!!
It's important to leave no trace!
If you are building your cubby in a public space, it is important to take your cubby down before leaving. Do this by taking the natural materials off in the opposite order to how you put it up.