Thursday, August 29, 2019

New online map showcases relaxation and recreation spots along the Georges River

Female bushwalker sits admiring the Georges River at Freres Crossing, Campbelltown

There is now an interactive map to show you where to walk, cycle, swim, fish and boat along the Georges River, and you’re invited to contribute your favourite walks and lookouts.

Georges Riverkeeper Chairman, Geoff Shelton, said: “The Georges River is over 100 km long so it can be difficult to know where the best spots are to enjoy the river.”

"The digital map is an easy way to find cycle tracks, nature walks, swimming spots and other facilities such as playgrounds and toilets, as well as finding out more about the vegetation and geography of the river,” he added.

"We wanted to showcase the recreation and relaxation opportunities the Georges River has to offer. It is estimated that the Georges River provides over $2 billion of ecosystem services each year.”

Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans freely obtain from the natural environment.

“There is a clear link between access to natural resources such as the Georges River and the liveability of an area and the health and wellbeing of its people,” explains Shelton.

The Georges River catchment is home to over 1.4 million people and is the second most urbanised river catchment area in NSW.

Georges Riverkeeper is contributing to making the urban area more liveable through the protection and regeneration of the natural environment of the river.

The map was created for the Georges Riverkeeper website with input from Georges Riverkeeper’s eight member councils including Bayside Council, City of Canterbury Bankstown, Campbelltown City Council, Fairfield City Council, Georges River Council, Liverpool City Council, Sutherland Shire Council and Wollondilly Shire Council.

Development of the map will be ongoing and Georges Riverkeeper is inviting residents to contribute, starting with your favourite walks and lookouts.

Visit the website with interactive maps.

To suggest a walk, use an activity tracker on your phone or the Strava app to track your steps then email the gpx file to contact@georgesriver.org.au. Alternatively, email a screenshot of your walk route or the location of your favourite look out.