Project update: one year on
On Sunday, 23 February 2025, the Greater Port Macquarie-Hastings community came together to take part in a successful tree planting event at Queens Lake Nature Reserve. This initiative was part of the Southern Arm Trunk Main (SATM) offset planting project, a collaboration between Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC), Hastings Landcare, and NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS). The day saw 500 native koala food trees planted, including Tallowwood, Grey Gum, Red Mahogany, Pink Bloodwood, and Turpentine.
Why This Project Matters
The recent addition of this area to the Queens Lake Nature Reserve provides a crucial opportunity for habitat restoration.
As part of the SATM, Council is committed to environmental offset planting to balance the impacts of necessary infrastructure development. The SATM is a long-term water security initiative that will improve water quality and supply to southern townships while also supporting sustainability efforts like this tree planting event.
As Libby Jude, Ranger at NPWS, explains,
“The planting area is within a large block recently acquired by the Crown and added to Queens Lake Nature Reserve. The area was cleared by the previous owner, so it provided the perfect opportunity for revegetation to rehabilitate the cleared area and improve the continuity and quality of prime koala habitat. Queens Lake Nature Reserve is a declared Asset of Intergenerational Significance for the protection of koala populations and their habitat.”
A Community Effort
Over 33 volunteers joined us on the day, dedicating their time and energy to this meaningful environmental action. It was a wonderful example of what can be achieved when the community comes together for a common cause.
As Hastings Landcare puts it, “There is nothing better than bringing the community together to take local environmental action. It empowers people, connects people, and leaves people feeling positive about the future. At Hastings Landcare, we endeavour to ensure that every individual, group, and organisation is supported in their efforts to improve the environment in our region.”
In addition to the planting, volunteers were treated to a delicious BBQ lunch, provided by the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West Inc. Their support made the event even more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Gavin Sharp, Project Manager at PMHC, emphasised the significance of the initiative:
“This collaboration with Hastings Landcare and NPWS is a great example of how we can come together as a community to make a real difference. By delivering vital infrastructure through the SATM project and complementing it with offset planting at Queens Lake Reserve, we are ensuring our region’s growth is underpinned by sustainable, environmentally responsible development.”
Looking to Get Involved?
This successful event is just the beginning, and there are many more opportunities to participate in future planting days and other environmental efforts. To learn more about how you can be part of local conservation projects, reach out to Hastings Landcare at office@hastingslandcare.org.au.
