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Through the Landcare Enabling Program (LEP), Greater Sydney Landcare supports Local Landcare Coordinators hosted within other organisations, fostering collaboration and extending the reach of Landcare initiatives across the region.

This collaborative approach enables each host organisation to address the unique environmental challenges and opportunities within their communities. From hands-on restoration projects to innovative educational initiatives, the stories and events from our hosts showcase the incredible impact of local efforts across the region.

Let’s explore some of the highlights from our sub-hosts and celebrate the work being done to care for our landscapes and communities.

Community Environment Network

Paul Madden, Local Landcare Coordinator

“The Central Environment Network (CEN) has been buzzing with activity, hosting events, launching campaigns, and introducing exciting new programs to support local conservation efforts. Among these initiatives is the Adopt a Platypus program, launched as a fundraising effort to support the continuation of our Platypus Watch Project. This project aims to protect and monitor platypus populations in the region, ensuring their survival in our waterways.

“Another highlight was our annual Breakfast with the Birds event, held at Central Coast Wetlands in Tuggerah to celebrate World Wetlands Day. This event brought together nature lovers and conservationists to appreciate the beauty and importance of our local wetlands.

“As part of the Landcare Enabling Program and Private Land Conservation Matters initiative, we organized a Threatened Species educational workshop and spotlighting event. Despite a curveball from the weather, the event adapted into two engaging sessions. The afternoon featured expert speakers discussing local threatened species, including the Swift Parrot, Regent Honeyeater, and the Green and Golden Bell Frog. The spotlighting session, held at North Avoca, gave attendees a rare opportunity to observe the Green and Golden Bell Frog in its natural habitat.

“We extend a special thank you to the incredible speakers from the Central Coast branch of Birding NSW, the University of Newcastle, and Central Coast Council for sharing their knowledge and passion for conservation.

“CEN remains committed to protecting our local ecosystems and engaging the community in meaningful ways. Check out our website for more news!”

CEN News

Cooks River Alliance

Stacy Gilbert, Aboriginal Landcare Coordinator

“As we step into the new year, there’s plenty to look forward to along the Cooks River! Spanning four local government areas, the river faces ongoing challenges, from water quality to urban overdevelopment. Yet, it remains a place of deep cultural significance. The Cooks River catchment was a site of first contact, and while colonisation disrupted traditional custodianship, many First Nations people continue to strengthen their connection to Country here.

“One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Wurridjal Festival, running from 29 March to 12 April 2025. This annual celebration marks the migration of thousands of mullet—known as ‘Wurridjal’ in Aboriginal languages spoken in the Sydney region—as they enter the Cooks River during their pre-spawning journey along Australia’s east coast. For thousands of years, the river was a vital source of food and cultural practice for Aboriginal people, and the festival aims to reconnect communities with this deep history and care for Country.

“The Wurridjal Festival brings together the incredible communities of the Cooks River catchment with a shared vision to regenerate and protect the river. From guided walks, river clean-ups, and bushcare to cycling tours, cultural workshops, and panel discussions—there’s something for everyone to get involved in.

“With more community events, education programs, and volunteer opportunities on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the Cooks River. Stay tuned for more details on how you can take part in the journey towards a healthier, more connected river!

“More information about what is happening along the Cooks River check out our Newsletter.”

Cooks River News

Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network

Monique Bailey, Local Landcare Coordinator

“Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network (HNLN) recently organised a ‘Private Land Conservation Matters – Plant Identification, Seed Collection, and Germination’ workshop. On Saturday 19th October 2024, participants had the opportunity to learn from seasoned bush regenerators at REDS – Robynnes Environment Diversity Services, who provided valuable knowledge on identifying plants, collecting seeds, and germination methods.

“Attendees also enjoyed a guided walk to observe native species in their natural environments. Venables Ventures contributed an engaging presentation on insect life, enhancing the workshop experience. Linda Pine from the Cattai Hills Environment Network prepared a delicious selection of native edibles for afternoon tea, sparking discussions on how to incorporate these ingredients into everyday meals.

“A sincere thank you is extended to Mountains for Wildlife for their support and warm hospitality in organizing this successful event. This workshop was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust and Landcare NSW, as part of the Private Land Conservation Matters initiative.”

“Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the “Bilpin Environment Day” on Saturday 10th May 2025, at Bilpin Oval from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. This event promises a day of learning, community engagement, and conservation activities, featuring the endangered Blue Mountains Shale Capped Forest and interactive sessions for children. Ticket registration opens in February 2025—be sure not to miss it! Stay connected with HNLN through social media and subscribe to our newsletter to Become a HNLN Enthusiast!

HNLN News

Oceanwatch

Laura Stoltenberg, Program Manager-Aquaculture

“Tide to Tip is a NSW oyster industry-led program empowering oyster farmers to lead local waterway clean-ups. Now in its sixth year, this initiative continues to make an impact. Together, oyster farmers are helping to combat the scourge of marine debris in our marine and estuarine habitats, one clean up at a time.

“Since 2020, oyster growers from across the state and interstate have been working together with local community groups to clean up their estuaries and foreshores, removing a collective 48 tonnes of marine litter. Thanks to all the local coordinators who donate their time, knowledge and punts to make this event possible and all the oyster farmers and volunteers who show up year after year!

“Check out the impact we have collectively made in keeping our waterways clean:

  • 48 tonnes of rubbish removed
  • 984 volunteers
  • 70% of oyster farmers
  • More than 2,900 volunteer hours

“To learn more about this program, check out our website.”

Oceanwatch News

Parramatta River Catchment Group

Camila Drieberg, Riverkeeper

“Putney Beach is now open for swimming.

“The Parramatta River Catchment Group in collaboration with City of Ryde and Sydney Water have completed a new swim site along the Parramatta River. Putney Beach is the third swim site to be opened on the Parramatta River in over 50 years! This new swim site will provide an opportunity for community to escape the heat this summer without travelling to the coast.

“Creating a swim site is a complex process involving extensive environmental studies including water quality and sediment testing, and collaboration with community and stakeholders to ensure access to safe, equitable, and sustainable swimming in natural areas now and into the future.”

“Just like the ocean, after heavy rain it is advised not to swim. Water quality is continuously monitored at our swim sites and up to date health grades are displayed on our website. This information can also be reached by scanning QR code signs at each site.

“More swim sites are planned to open along the Parramatta River in the coming years. The first of these will be at Bedlam Bay in Hunters Hill, later in the year. Keep an eye out on our socials for more information.”

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