We all need good neighbours and the Hunter Wetlands are no exception. This amazing habitat supports a vast number of plants, animals and migratory shorebirds, as well as being a nursery ground for fish and their food. The wetlands provide a buffer against sea level rise and store carbon, mitigating climate change. The Hunter Wetlands are recognised internationally as a unique and crucial habitat, but they need our help. The numbers of many migratory bird species that spend the summer in our wetlands, are in decline, pollutants enter via drainage channels, and a host of weeds including Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana subspecies) and Chinese Tallow Tree (Triadica sebifera) change soil and water quality, impacting native flora and fauna.
This February, HRLN partnered with Local Land Services (LLS) to run an information day for local residents in the Fletcher, Maryland and Black Hill areas, to see if there was interest in forming a new Landcare group to help care for the western flank of the Hunter Wetlands.
The endangered Australasian Bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus) and Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea) rely on the health of the wetland habitat.
A range of speakers highlighted different aspects of caring for this precious habitat. Louise Williams (LLS) presented on Wetland Bird identification and the Black-Necked Stork project. Matt Kennedy (LLS) upskilled attendees on the general public’s biosecurity responsibilities, Elise Budden (City of Newcastle Landcare Coordinator) presented on Newcastle Council’s Landcare groups and Dean Semit (City of Newcastle Council Weeds Officer) discussed a range of current, local weed issues.
Attendees got hands on at two spots where wetlands birds could be viewed. These sites demonstrated the importance of working together to keep land adjoining the wetlands weed-free. The event was sponsored by Hunter Local Land Services through the Good Neighbours Program.
There is a follow-up BBQ, introductory weed control practice and a chat about creating a new Fletcher/Maryland Landcare group happening at 12.30-2pm on Thursday 5th March. The meet-point is Callan Avenue, Maryland. If you would like to learn more or start helping out, please bring a sun hat, sunscreen, water bottle and enclosed shoes. Gloves and any tools needed will be provided. Please RSVP and contact Stacy if you would like to get involved in helping with this important new Landcare work in the Fletcher/Maryland area.
Cover photo courtesy: Louise Williams (Local Land Services)