On Thursday 3rd April 2025, Greater Sydney Landcare had the pleasure of hosting a corporate volunteering day with 11 enthusiastic team members from Trace Environmental. This rewarding day of hands-on conservation took place in Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside – a remarkable 63-hectare bushland park in the heart of Western Sydney’s Blacktown LGA.
Nurragingy Reserve is a true ecological treasure, welcoming over one million visitors each year and providing vital habitat for a rich diversity of native flora and fauna. It supports endangered ecological communities such as River Flat Eucalypt Forest and Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest, as well as the critically endangered Cumberland Plain Woodland. Despite its importance, the reserve faces ongoing pressure from invasive plant and animal species – making restoration work here not only valuable, but essential.
Trace Environmental, a multidiscipline environmental consulting company specialising in contaminated land and groundwater, generously gave their time to contribute to this important cause. Over the course of the morning, the team tackled a 300m² section of bushland, removing an impressive 12 cubic metres of invasive weeds including Small-leaf Privet, African Olive, Senna, Moth Vine and Balloon Vine. Their efforts significantly reduced competition for native vegetation, creating more space and light for indigenous species to regenerate and thrive.
The day was led by Greater Sydney Landcare’s Matt Keighery, Business & Systems Manager, and Sabina Roe, Local Landcare Coordinator – Regional Support. It also marked a poignant moment for the team, as it was Matt’s final day with Greater Sydney Landcare before heading into retirement after a dedicated career in environmental stewardship.
Sabina praised the volunteers: “Trace Environmental brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the bush regeneration volunteer day, making a big impact not just through their hard work but also their vibrant presence. With loud banter, plenty of laughs, and an infectious sense of humour, they created a fun and welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.”
“Despite the light-hearted vibe, the team was deeply committed to the task at hand—tackling invasive weeds with focus and determination. Their spirited approach turned a tough day’s work into an enjoyable and memorable experience for all.”
The team’s efforts were rewarded with a well-earned BBQ lunch enjoyed in the serene surrounds of the reserve – a fitting way to end a morning of meaningful environmental action.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Trace Environmental for their energy, commitment and contribution, and to Blacktown City Council – particularly Katrina Brown, Senior Bushland Officer – for making this site available for restoration. Partnerships like these are vital to protecting and enhancing Greater Sydney’s incredible natural assets.
Thinking of Getting Your Team Involved?
Corporate volunteering with Greater Sydney Landcare is a fantastic way to connect with nature, build team spirit, and make a real difference to local ecosystems. Whether you’re weeding, planting, or learning about the land or waters, you’ll be helping to protect some of Sydney’s most unique and precious environments – like Nurragingy Reserve – for generations to come.
Looking Ahead & Future Opportunities
With such a successful collaboration, Greater Sydney Landcare is excited to build on these efforts in 2025 and beyond. If your organisation is interested in meaningful corporate volunteering opportunities that support conservation in Greater Sydney, we’d love to hear from you! You can also download our Corporate Volunteering Info Pack to find out more.
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.
