This reserve is crucial for migratory birds to build up their fat reserves so that they can complete their migration north over the Australian Autumn/Winter period.
This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Greater Sydney Local Land Services, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.
The Towra Point Nature Reserve in Botany Bay is listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland site of international importance. It contains around 60% of saltmarsh and 40% of mangrove communities in the entire Sydney region, providing critical roosting and feeding habitat for rare and threatened species and ecological communities, and for a large number of endangered and migratory shorebirds. It also supports other wetland habitats in the area.
More than $1.8 million in funding has been provided by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust for the next 5 years to improve the condition of the shorebird roosting sites. Works include weed and litter removal, pest animal control and other critical activities to attract migratory birds and protect them while feeding.
Migratory bird specialist Phil Straw from the NSW Wader Study Group said, “I’m thrilled with the renewed investment in this internationally renowned and Ramsar listed wetland.”
Manager Land Services Program Renee Winsor said, “The Towra Point Ramsar project epitomises Local Land Services’ commitment to preserving and nurturing the ecological richness of this magnificent wetland.
“The works will safeguard crucial habitats for migratory bird species of national significance, such as the little tern, eastern curlew, Australian pied oystercatcher and bar-tailed godwit.
“This is a hugely significant investment that reflects the importance and value of the site itself.”
Shorebird numbers are closely monitored by delivery partners NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and The Georges Riverkeeper, along with invaluable support from the NSW Wader Study Group who aid in shorebird surveys and to oversee data verification from bird surveys across Botany Bay. Pest animal control partners include Sutherland Shire Council, which works in the buffer areas outside of the reserve, and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, which manages pest animal control activities within the reserve.
The Local Land Services team also highly values its partnerships with local First Nations groups La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council and Gamay Rangers who have cultural activities planned on Country to support the wetlands to remain healthy for generations to come and to continue their deep and reciprocal relationship with Country.
More information about the important works undertaken through this project can be found on the Greater Sydney Local Land Services Towra Point Nature Reserve page.
