A group of Hunter Intrepid volunteers met on a Sunday morning in late October to tackle infestations of Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata at Burwood Beach in Glenrock SCA. Supervised by National Parks, our group got to work hand-removing Bitou Bush seedlings around regenerating native flora on the sand dunes. We spent time discerning the native look-alikes, socialising and appreciating the stunning ocean surroundings.
Over lunch, volunteers learned about the biological characteristics of Bitou Bush that contribute to this plant’s invasive nature in our coastal ecosystems. In learning that “a mature Bitou Bush plant can produce up to 50,000 seeds per plant per year.” (NPWS NSW Bitou Bush Strategy), our volunteers further appreciated their hard work.
Some feedback from our attendees aged 16 to early 20s, was that these events provide a practical outlet for their climate anxiety, feeling reward and positivity in seeing a tangible impact by participating in Landcare activities.
This event was proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program (LSCA). Hunter Intrepid Landcare is supported by the Hunter Region Landcare Network and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.