Rehabilitation projects progressing well

MEDIA RELEASE 11 March 2021

Two local rehabilitation projects, funded by the NSW Government’s Environmental Trust, to improve the habitat for native flora and fauna are well underway.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said these projects were made possible thanks to funding from the State Government.

“Council is proud to work in partnership with the State Government on projects that improve our local riverways and vegetation corridors that will help grow and preserve these important natural assets into the future,” he said.

The Rehabilitation of the Macquarie River Riparian Corridor Project has seen the successful completion of another year of environmental rehabilitation works. The project, which commenced in October 2018, aims to improve the vegetation along 1km of the Macquarie River to connect with already completed vegetation rehabilitation projects and existing habitat areas.

Weed control targeting species such as Willow, Poplar and Blackberry was conducted in early 2020 and follow-up maintenance of revegetation work continues.

The first stage of the Queen Charlotte Vale Creek Royal Rehabilitation Treatment Project, which commenced in March last year, has been completed.

Over 900m of wildlife friendly rural fencing has been installed along the South Bathurst and Gorman Hill sides of Queen Charlotte Vale Creek. The fencing aims to reduce the impacts of grazing livestock on riparian vegetation condition, aquatic habitat, and creek bank stability.

The use of wildlife friendly rural fencing will also allow for local wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, bats and owls able to move through the site safely.

Over summer, extensive woody weed control was undertaken along the creek with a focus on invasive species including Willow, Blackberry, Poplar and African Boxthorn.

Community Tree Planting Days

A series of community and school planting days will occur from March through to May.

On Sunday, 14 March at 10am on the banks of Queen Charlotte Vale Creek (off the Alpha Street Levee near Police Paddock) adults and children can help plant native trees, shrubs and grasses. There will be a free barbecue afterwards. All plants and equipment are provided.

Please bring water, sunscreen, a hat, gardening gloves and wear suitable shoes and clothes. Children must be accompanied by an adult carer. The activity will go ahead in light rain, so please bring a raincoat if required. This is a COVIDSafe activity and handwashing facilities will be provided.

For further information visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or phone 0407 256 791 or 6333 6111.

ENDS
Media contact: Media Officer