Peter and Susan wrote:

We have a minor boundary problem. Our side neighbours (#8) recently rebuilt
their side fence towards the back of the property and didn't join it up with
either our or their rear neighbour's back/side fences. As a result we now
have a significant gap between No 8's boundary fence and our rear boundary
fence. This has resulted in a steady stream of dogs and kids from the
property behind #8 using our yard as a speedway, a situation we are not
entirely happy with.

We had a look at our boundary situation today to try and come up with a
solution but the problem is the layout of that corner of the yard (our side
neighbour retains up and the rear neighbour retains down) as well as
discovering that neither fence has side posts, so we can't secure a section
of railing and nail on more palings. Digging a new post hole will be a
problem as well.

One thought that occurred to us was perhaps planting something that would be
unpleasant to walk through. Bougainvillea came to mind but it may be too
invasive for our purposes. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Incidently, we have tried asking the kids not to run through our yard but
obviously its not working.

We are in Brisbane.

Thanks in advance

Susan and Peter

Grevillea rosmarinifolia (Rosemary-leaved Grevillea)! It's probably the most
commonly planted of the Grevilleas (at least, it is around our way) and will
deter all but the most determined dogs. Kids *hate* it because it really is
prickly! The flowers are very pretty, though, and it grows quite quickly. Other
than that, try roses, especially a climbing one that will fill the gap quickly.

I really dislike Bougainvillea in small gardens because those thorns are
*deadly*, especially to the poor sod who gets to prune the thing. FWIW, my Mum's
Bougainvillea lifted up her carport and carried it away!
--
Trish {|:-}
Newcastle, NSW, Australia