Improving access to the wetlands

The access road to the Central Coast Wetlands at Tuggerah is set for a facelift.

Crown Lands NSW has approved a grant of just over half a million dollars to the Wetlands-Pioneer Dairy Land Manager to bitumen the road.

The grant was announced by Member for Wyong and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris at the wetlands on the June 28.

Harris also presented a cheque for $17,200 to buy an all-terrain vehicle to assist volunteers in maintaining the site.

“Central Coast Wetlands is an important asset to the community” Harris said.

“The grant will enable more people to take advantage of the wonderful environment that the wetlands provide for the existing users including the Sustainable Wetlands Agriculture Makers Project and Mark Churcher Golf Range.

“There has been a significant investment of public money through infrastructure providing built walkways, picnic tables and a pavilion.

“The sealed road will increase the use of these facilities.”

Central Coast Wetland-Pioneer Dairy was the largest dairy of the Central Coast before it closed in 1986.

It became the site of a proposed power station but public pressure ensured it remained in public hands for recreation.

There are historic remnants of the dairy including the cottage and silos still at the wetlands.

Significant rehabilitation has taken place with more than 120,000 trees and shrubs planted, mainly along the creek lines.

This is an ongoing project.

The wetlands has a bird list of more than 200 species and now supports a population of the vulnerable Squirrel Glider as well as the Powerful Owl.

“Sealing the access road will be a game-changer,” Chairperson Jed Field said.

“The 100-year-old gravel access road has been very rough to drive on for many years.

“Despite our best efforts (on) upkeep, regular visitor traffic and constant wet weather periods have resulted in major deterioration.

“It has been impossible to consider further development of the reserve and other opportunities without the road being sealed.

“The new road will allow two vehicles to pass safely and include guard rails and speed bumps.

“We will be consulting the wider community shortly to determine the direction for future development.

“Work on the road is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year and should take about three weeks.

“During that time access to the reserve will be restricted.”