Good gully habitat restored
A joint project between Georges Riverkeeper and Sutherland Shire Council has improved the condition of endangered bushland and the creek line at Oyster Creek Gully, which runs through Jannali, Kirrawee and Kareela.
The project, funded through a $47,000 NSW Environmental Trust, Restoration and Rehabilitation grant has seen the removal of invasive weeds, revegetation with native species and the installation of erosion control devices in an area which contains a diverse range of vegetation communities from Gallery Rainforest to Coastal Dry Sclerophyll Forests.
Over 1,100 plants were installed by contractors and volunteers working a total of 1,400 hours over the course of the project which resulted in the improvement of over 7.35 hectares.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Steve Simpson welcomed the completion of the Oyster Creek Gully project and congratulated the collaborative approach between a number of stakeholders over the past few years to ensure the success of this project.
“We are fortunate here in the Sutherland Shire to be surrounded by natural bushland and this project has not only improved the sustainability of this important wildlife habitat, but it has also aesthetically enhanced the area for local residents to enjoy for years to come,” Mayor Simpson said.
“I would like to thank the many local Bushcare volunteers who contributed their time and efforts over the past three years to see this project through, and who remain committed to supporting and enriching our local environment. I would also like to thank Deputy Mayor, Councillor Tom Croucher and Councillor Peter Scaysbrook who are long serving committee members of Georges Riverkeeper and passionately support the protection of our natural environment.
“This project is an excellent example of how a collaborative approach between local and state level organisations and groups can make a real difference to our environment, and ultimately our future.”
The works have been assisted by three Sutherland Shire Bushcare volunteer groups who will be important to the ongoing maintenance of the site.
Three workshops have also been held onsite for residents and their children to increase their knowledge of the local bushland, creek, and wildlife.
Georges Riverkeeper Representative, Councillor Tom Croucher, says, “Not only have we boosted biodiversity in the area and helped to improve river health in the nearby Georges River, we’ve transformed it from a weedy corridor into a showcase of native flora.”
The changes can be viewed via one of the fire trails that run parallel to the creek line.
Residents interested to know how they can join one of Oyster Creek Gully’s Bushcare groups and continue to care for the gully, can visit Council’s website or call the Bushcare Unit on 02 9524 5672.
