On Tuesday 16th September 2025, Greater Sydney Landcare hosted a corporate volunteering day for eight awesome volunteers from Crowne Plaza by IHG at Boronia Park, Hunters Hill, in partnership with Hunters Hill Council.
The group contributed a total of 40 volunteer hours to restoring local habitat, focusing on removing invasive weeds including Lantana—a weed of national significance—and Small-leaved Privet. These weeds are harmful as they outcompete native plants, reduce biodiversity, and alter habitat structure, making it harder for native wildlife to thrive.
Caring for Urban Bushland
Removing invasive species is a vital part of restoring Boronia Park’s unique bushland in a suburban setting, allowing native vegetation to re-establish and wildlife to return.
Bush regeneration is an iterative process, and Greater Sydney Landcare has returned to Boronia Park many times with corporate groups to steadily improve habitats and make a lasting difference.
Protecting Wildlife and Creating Resilient Habitats
Boronia Park is home to a wide variety of native species, including the elusive Powerful Owl, Australia’s largest owl and a top predator that relies on healthy forest habitats to survive. By improving habitat quality and removing invasive weeds, volunteers directly support a more resilient ecosystem where species like the Powerful Owl can thrive.
The volunteering day was part of IHG’s Give for Good Month, during which IHG staff volunteer each September to support the community, reduce food waste, fight hunger, and lower carbon emissions.
Hands-On Conservation That Makes a Difference
The day followed a structured agenda designed to combine conservation work, learning, and team building. Volunteers removed invasive weeds and cleared space for native plant regrowth, and took a closer look at the health of a nearby waterway through hands-on Streamwatch water quality testing. Participants explored aquatic life and learned how clean water supports both wildlife and people.
They also walked the reserve to observe natural regrowth, discuss wildlife including Powerful Owls, and reflect on the impact of their work.
Volunteers Enjoy Contributing, Learning & Connecting
Volunteers praised the day for being both educational and enjoyable. Samantha Yousouf, Human Resources Manager at Crowne Plaza, described the day as “a great experience. The team really enjoyed being outdoors, learning something new, and spending time making a difference.”
Participants highlighted the ease of access, onsite facilities, and the beauty of Boronia Park as “a great example of a nature reserve in a suburban location.” They also enjoyed additional activities such as Streamwatch on the Lane Cove River, which provided a chance to explore the area and observe local wildlife including Water Dragons.
The day was led by GSL’s Corporate Engagement Manager Sabina Roe and Environmental Restoration Officer Kylie Burrows. Sabina praised the group: “The volunteers worked really well as a team, communicating, helping each other, and following directions. They created the most tidy and structurally sound habitat piles I have seen.”
Uniting to Make a Difference
Thank you to Hunters Hill Council and Crowne Plaza by IHG for partnering with Greater Sydney Landcare—our united people power is improving the environment in our incredible region.
Join GSL’s Corporate Volunteering Program
GSL’s corporate volunteering program provides structured, safe, and engaging experiences for teams wanting to make a real impact on local environments. Activities include bush regeneration, tree planting, water quality monitoring, and habitat restoration, all guided by experienced GSL staff. By helping tackle challenges such as invasive weeds, corporate volunteers play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, improving native habitats, and fostering connections between communities and nature.
Volunteer for Bushcare in Hunter’s Hill
If you’d like to contribute to environmental efforts in the Hunter’s Hill LGA, you can become a Bushcare volunteer and regenerate bushland. No experience is necessary as training is provided.
Corporate Volunteering with Greater Sydney Landcare
Find out more about Corporate Volunteering with Greater Sydney Landcare here. Be sure to download our Corporate Volunteering Info Pack.
