McCristal Creek Bush Regeneration

McCristal creek supports a range of local native flora and fauna species, but unfortunately a range of weeds have invaded the site. In 2023/24 the McCristal Creek Care Group received a grant of $4,900 to help restore the site back to lowland rainforest through bush regeneration.

The project involved a number of working bees with nearby residents as well as works by contractors. Invasive weeds such as lantana, green cestrum, celtis, blackberry, white raspberry, privet, camphor laurel and mickey mouse plant were removed which has allowed a diversity of native species to begin to seed and thrive including sandpaper figs, bangalow palms, foambark and cheese trees. In addition, over 150 native species were planted out which will help stabilise the creek bank and provide future food and habitat for native species.

This project was a great learning opportunity for participants who were able to deepen their understanding about water quality issues, weed biosecurity, biodiversity and weed and native species identification. The project has had lasting impacts with residents continuing to gather independently of the formal working bees to do further weed control and organise watering rosters. Residents have also either removed or better managed potentially invasive garden plants on their own properties in order to protect the site.

This project is a great example of a group of neighbours coming together to look after a piece of degraded bushland. Many other residents have also benefited from the transformation of the site and commented on how good it is looking.