Let’s explore the possibility of regulating the use of bushland

When I first started exploring bushland around Kentlyn 20 years ago, the first thing I noticed was the extensive network of fire trails.

There must be tens of kilometres of tracks and trails running this way and that way.

You can’t help be equally awed by them as much as the beauty of their pristine surroundings.

I just kept walking a bit further every time and taking a different track or trail now and again.

There are several entry points along Peter Meadows Road and just as many exits.

Soon I realised I could walk all the way to Hansens Road or the Basin, and say hello to the odd koala or wallaby along the way.

Not so much during the week – I was out there seven days a week – but on weekends I also said hello to many fellow human beings.

Some were riding mountain or bush bicycles while others were walking, jogging or running.

One time I was almost suffocated with the love from two or three Dalmatians out on an early walk with their master.

He apologised profusely.

It’s also true that BMX type competitions are held in the bush, with the contests captured on video which are very popular on the internet.

Indeed the competition routes are clearly marked around the Kentlyn bush.

So, in the light of council proposals to develop a plan for the use of all of our bushland along the Georges River, here’s a couple of thoughts:

One, it’s clear that the Campbelltown bushland is already very popular among locals and non locals, who visit it in an unregulated way.

Secondly, with the trails and tracks already carved out by human and animal activity, there would be no need to further bulldoze any more bushland for a bush cycle track from Wedderburn to Glenfield.

That’s assuming that council proceeds with this plan to use this wonderful resource to boost eco tourism in Campbelltown in an organised, regulated way.

They still have to see if the numbers stack up – costs versus potential revenue.

But there’s no doubt in my mind we should not be so hasty in dismissing this idea before we even find out if it can be done.

If it turns out it’s a dud financially or the risk to the bushland is too high, well, so be it

But at least we will be able to say we tried.