300 trees to be planted at Pioneer Dairy

Central Coast Wetlands’ Land Manager and Ecologist, Jed Field standing at the site along Pioneer Creek where 300 trees will be planted on August 1

National Tree Planting Day on August 1 will be a big event at Central Coast Wetlands Pioneer Dairy, when volunteers are planning to plant more than 300 trees.

These trees, shrubs and groundcover plants will be planted on the banks of Pioneer Creek, which in the past was used as a cow paddock.

The project will improve stream health, as well as provide a habitat for native wildlife, says Central Coast Wetlands Land Manager and Ecologist, Jed Field.

“The wetlands received a grant from Local Land Services to plant trees to support the wildlife there.

“We have a handful of dedicated and passionate volunteers working towards restoring the environment at the old dairy.

“It feels great to participate as the trees there grow so fast, in two years the trees are as tall as us, so you really get to see it turn into this wonderful, thriving environment.

“The reserve is a habitat for over 40 threatened species of birds.

“If the planting does not happen on August 1, the day will be rescheduled, and we’re looking for volunteers to come along and join in.

“National Tree Day is a great way to get out and help your community and be provided with a sense of belonging,” Field said.

He said that there would be more plantings throughout the year, and the seeds for the project are sourced from the site.

The Central Coast Wetlands Pioneer Dairy site in Tuggerah has been the focus of rehabilitation by Central Coast Wetlands since 1997.

The group has turned the former dairy farm into a thriving wetland environment that visitors can enjoy and learn about the environment and the heritage of the site, as well as enjoy recreational activities such as golf or picnics.

Central Coast Wetlands Pioneer Dairy is home to two critically endangered birds, the Regent Honeyeater and the Swift Parrot.

Other endangered species that call the site home include The Black Bittern, The Squirrel Glider and the Wyong Paperbark tree.

Harry Mulholland