Residents who are passionate about preserving Campbelltown’s pristine bushland and conserving native fauna and flora are invited to join the new Smith’s Creek Bushcare volunteer group.
The group was recently launched by Campbelltown City Council as part of the Improving Urban Koala Linkages and Community Stewardship grant project in partnership with Greater Sydney Local Land Services.
Bordered by the suburbs of Campbelltown, Leumeah and Ruse, Smith’s Creek Reserve is recognised as an important koala habitat corridor and comprises areas of bushland where the critically endangered Shale Sandstone Transition Forest survives.
Twelve residents have already committed to volunteering their time to help protect this natural asset.
In recent years, exotic plant species have spread into the area’s pristine bushland, threatening native flora and fauna.
Water run off and fertilisers have also encouraged noxious weed growth, disturbing the delicate ecological balance.
The next meeting of the group will be held on October 25, on location at Smith’s Creek.
Bushcare volunteers participate in native plant identification, tree planting and weed management to restore natural species.
Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Paul Hawker, said that Bushcare groups gave residents the opportunity to get involved in the restoration and maintenance of local bushland areas and meet like minded people.
“Council is committed to ensuring the sustainability of our natural woodlands and preserving the local area’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity,” Cr Paul Hawker said.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“Bushcare groups not only have a positive impact on the environment, but also create a positive change within the community. Their activities raise environmental awareness and provide a tangible way for residents to make a difference.[/social_quote]
“The Smith’s Creek Reserve is a critically endangered ecological community and council encourages residents to get involved. No experience is necessary, just an interest in the local environment,” Cr Hawker said.
Campbelltown City Council has a number of local Bushcare groups operating throughout the local government area, and is always seeking volunteers. Bushcare groups also operate at: Noorumba Reserve in Rosemeadow; Milton Park in Macquarie Fields; Campbelltown Golf Course in Glen Alpine; Cook Reserve in Ruse; and the Georges River corridor in Kentlyn.
If you would like to join a Bushcare group, please contact council’s environment team on 4645 4601, to register or visit the local bushcare website for more details.
