2004 – Present
We saw the need to revitalise the Pages River running through our town of Murrurundi. We have achieved a lot with a small band of workers. At Wilson Oval by the Pages River we tackled weed eradication and began replanting with trees relevant to our area. One of our first projects was was planting 40 river red gums at Wilson Oval. These are going well thanks to the deer-proof tree guards made for us by the local Men’s Shed.
Dry weather has taken its toll. There is no water in the Pages River and Murrurundi has been on Level 6 water restrictions since July 2018. Sandy and Mandy Archibald have been instrumental in keeping trees alive with a water cart on the back of a truck.
Another site we work on is the walk from Paradise Park up a steep, rugged and densely wooded hill which, from the top, gives views over Murrurundi. We now have the Paradise Park Walking Trail and Sandy and Mandy are constantly clearing the pathways to make them accessible for everyone.
Big Wins
Partnering with Murrurundi Public school in the construction of outdoor classroom.
Lessons
Feral deer are a hindrance to regeneration.
Our next project is a huge task. We have taken on restoration along the river between Bush’s Bridge and the Swinging Bridge. These are two foot bridges which link either side of the town. We have spent many working bees clearing the track along the river, with a couple of volunteers lending their expertise with their own small tractor and bobcat. The local Council has helped with weed spraying and we have had assistance to chop down larger trees and weeds like privet and blackberry. Local Land Services has been instrumental in engaging a drone to help eradicate giant reed which is invading our river bank.
With the assistance of Murrurundi Men’s Shed, Upper Hunter Council, Cressfield Stud and artist Anita Faulkner, Murrurundi Public School now has an outdoor classroom where students can learn about our environment.
Our group often feels a sense of achievement after a working bee; to step back and see what has been done and the pleasure of seeing the difference in the environment.
