Port Macquarie Landcare Group is continuing to put the finishing touches to about one hectare of land near Yarranabee Creek where it crosses Herschell Street in the final installation of the six year project.

The group’s project manager Estelle Gough said the current work was needed due to ‘human intervention’.

“This final restoration work involves the replanting of some 100 plants and weed removal because of the impact of having vehicles parked on this area,” she said.

“We had already planted out this area as part of this project, but we are now revisiting this site to redo some planting.

“The entire project covers some 60 hectares and covers Yarranabee and Wrights creeks

“Funding was through the state government and the environmental trust who provided us with about $250,000 along with in-kind contributions from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service, private contractors and the physical efforts of our many volunteers.

“We estimate this project, once completed, is about $2 million. I think that’s a good investment.”

Mrs Gough said a group of 10 volunteers would work three mornings a week on the ‘massive project’ and would undertake general maintenance weeding and weed control.

“The Yarranabee Creek work is in the heart of Port Macquarie and, once our work is complete, will provide a beautiful place to enjoy,” the project manager said.

“This area is an important koala corridor and boasts loads of eucalypt trees and we often see many koalas during our working bees.

“We have also incorporated planting koala feed trees as part of this project too.”

Mrs Gough described the work as a ‘brilliant project’ where all volunteers were involved in building their skill levels and helping the environment.

Port Macquarie Landcare Group offers the opportunity for volunteers to work on any of its three mornings a week and at a frequency to suit your lifestyle.

To join the volunteer mailing list contact the Estelle Grough on 0432141605 or go to their website.