A 7.35 hectare section of Oyster Creek Gully has been rehabilitated as part of a joint project involving Georges Riverkeeper and Sutherland Shire Council.
The works, funded by a $47,000 NSW Environmental Trust, Restoration and Rehabilitation grant, improved the condition of endangered bushland and the creek line at Oyster Creek Gully, which runs through Jannali, Kirrawee and Kareela.
The works saw the removal of invasive weeds and revegetation with native species. Erosion control devices were installed in the area, which contains a diverse range of vegetation communities from gallery rainforest to coastal dry sclerophyll forests.
More than 1100 plants were added during the works, which were carried out by contractors and volunteers over 1400 hours.
Three Sutherland Shire Bushcare volunteer groups assisted with the works and will carry out ongoing maintenance at the site.
Sutherland Shire mayor Steve Simpson welcomed the completion of the project and congratulated the collaborative approach that ensured its success.
"We are fortunate here in Sutherland Shire to be surrounded by natural bushland and this project has not only improved the sustainability of this important wildlife habitat, but it has also aesthetically enhanced the area for local residents to enjoy for years to come," councillor Simpson said.
"I would like to thank the many local Bushcare volunteers who contributed their time and efforts over the past three years to see this project through, and who remain committed to supporting and enriching our local environment.
"I would also like to thank deputy mayor Tom Croucher and councillor Peter Scaysbrook, who are long-serving committee members of Georges Riverkeeper and passionately support the protection of our natural environment.
"This project is an excellent example of how a collaborative approach between local and state level organisations and groups can make a real difference to our environment, and ultimately our future."
Three workshops have been held onsite for residents and their children to increase their knowledge of the local bushland, creek and wildlife.
Georges Riverkeeper representative Tom Croucher said: "Not only have we boosted biodiversity in the area and helped to improve river health in the nearby Georges River, we've transformed it from a weedy corridor into a showcase of native flora".
The changes can be viewed via one of the fire trails that run parallel to the creek line.
Details: Residents interested in joining one of Oyster Creek Gully's Bushcare groups should phone the council's Bushcare Unit on 9524 5672 or click here.