Group helps local bushcare groups

A Workwise Community Support Group managed by the Central Coast Community Environment Network (CCCEN) is working with local bushcare volunteers on a site on The Esplanade, near Ettalong Point.

Under the guidance of Michael Ward from CCCEN, the group is mulching trees that had previously been vandalised in the dune area.

Gosford Council's natural resources manager Ms Teena Pennington said the trees had become a hazard for volunteers working on the site and were also inhibiting regeneration of native vegetation.

"Dune vegetation not only provides habitat for native animals but protects against high seas in storm events, prevents sand blowing into properties and provides a windbreak to foreshore properties," said Ms Pennington.

"Mulch from the vandalised trees will be used on the edge of the site adjoining the bike-walking track to inhibit weeds.

Ms Pennington said the Peninsula Bushcare volunteers led by Mr Michael Gilllian had done a great job.

"They have dedicated hundreds of hours to regenerate the site by removing invasive weeds," she said.

The group meets on the first Saturday of the month and is always encouraging new members.

For more information, telephone Gosford Council's Bushcare officers on 4325 8195 or 4325 8169.

Press release, September 3