If you've spent time along the Georges River near Lugarno, you might have been lucky enough to spot a pair of Ospreys gliding over the water or perched high up with a fish in their talons. These stunning birds of prey, listed as Vulnerable in New South Wales, have become a cherished part of our local ecosystem. Now, thanks to a partnership between George Riverkeeper and Georges River Council, they’ve got a brand new place to call home.
For the past few breeding seasons, the Osprey pair has been nesting on a construction crane near Lime Kiln Bay. While the crane offered a great vantage point for the birds, it wasn’t exactly an ideal or permanent solution — construction work, falling fish scraps, and eventual crane removal made it clear that a better option was needed. Nearby residents were also understandably concerned about the mess from dropped fish and nesting materials landing on their properties.
So, with input from the community and experts in threatened species, a plan was set in motion: build a dedicated nesting pole and platform in the water, close to the Ospreys’ preferred fishing grounds, and far from noisy construction.
After months of planning, approvals, and collaboration with wildlife specialists, the nesting pole has now been installed just in time for the 2025 breeding season. Even better, we’ve given the birds a familiar welcome mat — using nesting materials from a previous, unsuccessful nest to help attract them to the new site.
The platform was designed with the help of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, as well as local bird experts and councils that have successfully supported Osprey nesting in the past. The hope is that this new pole offers the birds the safety, peace, and height they need to finally raise a family.
Why is this so important? In past years, the Ospreys’ attempts to breed have been hampered by disturbances and predation — not helped by their precarious choice of a construction site as a nursery. Before that, they nested on a river marker pole, but the new purpose-built nesting platform is a major upgrade and provides a better chance for success.
We’re crossing our fingers that the Ospreys adopt their new home and that this season brings the pitter-patter of tiny talons.
Stay tuned — we’ll be watching closely (from a respectful distance!) and sharing updates as we follow their journey.
