On Friday the 22nd of May (2026), 11 enthusiastic volunteers from Vatech joined Greater Sydney Landcare at Nurragingy Reserve for a rewarding afternoon of environmental restoration and citizen science.
After gathering together over lunch, the team headed into the reserve ready to tackle one of the site’s persistent invasive weeds — balloon vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum). This fast-growing climber spreads aggressively through bushland, smothering native vegetation, competing for sunlight and space, and preventing natural regeneration. Left unmanaged, balloon vine can quickly overwhelm understory plants and place pressure on established ecosystems.
Armed with gloves and determination, the Vartech team enthusiastically took on the challenge. Working carefully around established native canopy species, volunteers skirted vines to remove pressure on the canopy layer. Their efforts resulted in the removal of approximately 10 cubic metres of balloon vine from the reserve, opening space for native species to recover and thrive.
The group’s energy throughout the day was incredible, with volunteers eagerly learning about the site, asking questions and throwing themselves into the work with genuine passion. Seeing teams connect so strongly with the environment and the impact of restoration work is always inspiring.
Following the bush regeneration activities, the volunteers participated in Streamwatch, learning how community members can help monitor local waterways through water quality testing and environmental observations. The session gave the team an opportunity to better understand the connection between healthy bushland, stormwater and thriving waterways.
A huge thank you to Vartech for their hard work, positivity and commitment to supporting healthier habitats across Greater Sydney.
Join Blacktown’s Bushcare Program
If you’d like to contribute to environmental efforts in the Blacktown area, you can volunteer to become a Blacktown City Council Bushcare volunteer, and regenerate bushland. No experience is necessary as training is provided.
Come Corporate Volunteering with Greater Sydney Landcare
Greater Sydney Landcare has hosted dozens of companies for Corporate Volunteering days to restore Greater Sydney’s environment. Will yours be next? Download our Corporate Volunteering Info Pack for more info.
