What a remarkable year it was for the Cumberland Plain Restoration Program! In 2023, our volunteer community flourished and significant strides were made in revitalising the threatened Cumberland Plain Woodland at Scheyville National Park.
New Faces and Expanded Initiatives
This year Greater Sydney Landcare welcomed Sophie Blair, our dedicated new team member, who has brought fresh energy to the Cumberland Plain Restoration Program. Sophie now leads the organisation and supervision of our Scheyville Birding and Bushcare group. She also spearheaded the creation of a new bushcare group within Wianamatta Regional Park.
Enthusiastic Volunteer Engagement
Throughout the year, our monthly birding and bushcare events saw an incredible turnout, with over 100 passionate individuals attending. Volunteers embraced hands-on restoration, delving into bushland activities and enjoying the outdoors. Special thanks to Mark Fuller from Avianation and esteemed bird enthusiasts Edwin Vella and Ian Bailey for enhancing the birdwatching experience. Each Scheyville event showcased an impressive average of 30-40 bird species.
Building Community and Friendships
Our bushcare groups have become catalysts for community building and the formation of lasting friendships. Like-minded individuals from all corners of Sydney united to discuss environmental matters and delve into the intricacies of restoring the magnificent Cumberland Plain. Notable groups, such as North Sydney Council Bushcare, UTS Landscape Architecture students, Scouts NSW, and Western Sydney University PhD students studying the Cumberland Plain, have actively joined our cause.
Weed Removal and Habitat Restoration
We were proud of our achievements towards eradicating invasive weed species like Lantana, Privet, and African Olive at the Cumberland Plain bushcare sites. Witnessing the return of native flora and fauna to their rehabilitated habitats has been incredibly rewarding.
Gratitude to Our Volunteers
A heartfelt thank you to every volunteer who contributed to the restoration of Western Sydney’s iconic bushland. Your dedication and hard work this year have made a tangible difference.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As we bid farewell to 2023, we are excited to announce the return of our bushcare events in 2024. Wianamatta Regional Park Birding and Bushcare will resume on Feb 3rd (every first Saturday of the month), and Scheyville Birding & Bushcare on Feb 24th (every 4th Saturday of the month).
Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and environmental stewardship!
Warm regards,
Xuela & Sophie
