Cumberland Plain Woodland at Ropes Creek: the understorey

A wonderful opportunity to visit Ropes Creek Reserve, St Marys, western Sydney, learn about the grasses and herbs that make up the Cumberland Plain understorey, and gain some hand-weeding skills while assisting natural regeneration

Ropes Creek is part of the Hawkesbury-Nepean River catchment, flowing north into South Creek and runs through a 20 ha reserve of Cumberland Plain Woodland, indicated by Eucalyptus microcarpa (Greybox).

The Friends of Ropes Creek (FRC) crew have been caring for the site since 1991 and have a monthly bushcare session. For their September session, the Friends are inviting AABR members and supporters for a field day.

We shall hear about the site’s history: the pioneering role of John Diamond in recognising its ecological values and securing protection of this Sydney Coastal Riverflat Forest, in working with land managers and stakeholders. And see some fine results: a flowering, mature understorey of with fine specimens of Grevillea juniperina juniperina subspecies and Bursaria spinosa (too much!) and on Transgrid’s easement under the transmission lines; native groundcovers and Fabaceeae shrubs.

This field day is also an opportunity to learn hand weeding techniques from experienced bush regenerators, especially in relation to the threats of the Cumberland Plain vegetation. We shall pay close attention to the native species and their weed lookalikes that can impact restoration outcomes to the unaware observer.

If you’re a student this is a great opportunity to learn from highly experienced regenerators, if you’re new to bush regen this inspiring site can show you where bush regen can take you professionally, if you’re an experienced bush regenerator celebrating John Diamond’s contribution to the Cumberland Plain restoration by assisting the group for a few hours will honour his legacy. No matter where you are in you bush regen journey, it’s an opportunity to network and be amongst like-minded souls.

Wear long sleeves, long pants, covered shoes, hat,  and bring water bottle, insect repellent, and sunscreen, and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy together at the end of the session.

Site capacity: 20

The meeting point is at the corner of Sycamore St and Boronia Rd.

COST –

MEMBERS – $5

NON MEMBERS – $10

STUDENTS – $0

Tickets can be purchased here

Keeping calm with COVID

AABR will continue to ensure all events are as COVID safe as possible. If unwell, please stay home and rest.