On Thursday 8th May 2025, a dedicated team of 12 Merck employees donned gardening gloves and bush regen kits at Boronia Reserve in Hunter’s Hill. Despite beginning under overcast skies with an early morning shower, the enthusiastic volunteers worked tirelessly to restore native habitat in this ecologically significant area.
Making a Measurable Environmental Impact
Led by Sabina Roe, Corporate Engagement Manager, and Environmental Field Officer Kylie Burrows from Greater Sydney Landcare, the Merck team contributed an impressive 48 volunteer hours to the reserve. Their efforts resulted in the removal of 9 cubic metres of invasive weeds, including 4 cubic metres of Asparagus Fern and 5 cubic metres of Lantana—both classified as Weeds of National Significance in Australia.
“The Merck team was fantastic,” said Sabina Roe. “Despite a soggy start to the day, they were enthusiastic and got a lot of work done. By the end they had become naturals at spotting Lantana and Asparagus Fern.”
Protecting Native Wildlife Habitat
Boronia Reserve, located on the shores of the Lane Cove River, serves as crucial habitat for the Powerful Owl and forms part of an important wildlife corridor linking Sydney Harbour to Lane Cove National Park. The removal of invasive species creates space for native plants to thrive, enhancing biodiversity in this significant 24-hectare reserve—one of the best examples of Hunter’s Hill’s pre-European landscape.
The work continues Greater Sydney Landcare’s ongoing commitment to this site, having brought five corporate groups to care for the reserve in 2024, with Merck being the second group in 2025.
Tools to Assist Research & Conservation
Beyond weed removal, the Merck volunteers also learned about Greater Sydney Landcare’s Streamwatch program. As it was raining, Sabina taught the group under the marque about the kits used to collect valuable data on the health of Greater Sydney’s waterways. This citizen science initiative contributes to a comprehensive dataset used by researchers and authorities to monitor and protect local waterways.
Connecting With Nature & Giving Back
The day ran from 9 am to 2 pm, with weather conditions evolving from light morning showers to beautiful sunshine by lunchtime. After their productive morning, the group was rewarded with a warming BBQ lunch that reenergised and provided a well-deserved break.
“Removing Lantana is very satisfying,” commented one participant, while another noted, “I don’t garden at home, but I am enjoying this.” A third volunteer shared, “It’s nice to be out of the office and listening to the sounds of the bush.”
Multiplying Impact by the Power of Partnership
This event marks another successful collaboration between Greater Sydney Landcare and corporate partners committed to environmental stewardship in Sydney.
“Thank you to the Merck staff who came on the day and contributed to work to restore healthy habitat in Boronia Reserve,” said Sabina Roe. “Thank you also to Hunter’s Hill Council for supplying this site for restoration works, and for allowing Greater Sydney Landcare to work with you in caring for it.”
Through corporate volunteering days like this one, Greater Sydney Landcare continues to engage businesses in meaningful conservation work that benefits local ecosystems while providing employees with rewarding experiences in 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.
About Streamwatch
Streamwatch is a citizen science water monitoring program, managed by Greater Sydney Landcare, that enables community groups to monitor the quality and health of local waterways.
