There has been a sea of orchids across outer South Western Sydney, courtesy of last year’s smoky summer that was followed by good autumn rains.
Macarthur Australasian Native Orchid Society (MANOS) says there have been huge numbers of flowering orchids to see in December, with more to come in January.
MANOS is conducting a native orchid survey across the Macarthur area until the end of 2021.
The aim is to identify and assist local councils and development stakeholders in the relocation of orchid populations and ensure the conservation of some species that are mainly found in the Macarthur area.
The Macarthur region is rich in native orchids, with over 80 species occurring.
Community grants from AGL’s Camden Gas Project have enable MANOS to undertake the survey – with the help of local residents.
AGL community relations manager Marina Draper said the company was pleased to be working with MANOS to help preserve the native orchid populations in the region.
“We know regional communities across NSW have been severely impacted by severe drought, bushfires and Covid-19 but we are committed to doing what we can to help our local communities, not only rebuild, but thrive.
“This work is critical and will go a long way in supporting and protecting these orchid species, which are not just unique to Macarthur, but bring much beauty and colour to our region.”
Native orchids don’t just exist in the many national parks that occur across the Macarthur region, but in reserves, road verges, residential and rural properties, industrial complexes. In fact, almost anywhere natural vegetation patches occur can have orchids.
All orchids are protected by law in NSW, but that doesn’t stop people illegally taking them from the bush.
MANOS is looking for community support from local residents, bush walkers, naturalists, or anyone who sees what they think might be an orchid.
All they have to do is take a picture with their phone and email the photo and general location of the plant (within a km or so is ideal) to MacarthurANOS@gmail.com
MANOS will contact you if they need to get more details.
- If anyone is interested in becoming a MANOS member contact them via MacarthurANOS@gmail.com, friend them through the Facebook group – Macarthur ANOS Group – or attend monthly meetings at Birriwa Community Centre, Fitzpatrick Road, Mt Annan, on the third Tuesday of each month starting at 7.30pm.
