Historic 'Tank Stream' Brought Back to Life Through Local Landcare and Council Partnership
On the 25th of May 2025, Bonny Hills Landcare Group in partnership with Port Macquarie Hastings Council and Hastings Landcare, held a very successful planting day at the culturally, historically and environmentally significant Tank Stream, Bartlett Reserve Bonny Hills. Over 35 volunteers helped plant 300 shrubs and ground covers as part of Stage One of the revegetation project.
Why This Project Matters?
Tank Stream holds a special place in the village’s story. Replenished by a natural spring, the stream once served as a crucial water source for local Indigenous groups and early European settlers, including explorer John Oxley. A reservoir was later constructed downstream at the cliff-face to supply fresh water. The area is also linked to the official opening of Bonny Hills’ original post office and telephone exchange on 1st November 1948, just across from the stream’s source. “This is about more than just planting natives,” said a Bonny Hills Landcare spokesperson. “It’s about reviving an important part of our natural and cultural heritage while also creating a vital wildlife corridor.”
Community Efforts
Once overgrown and choked with exotic weeds, Tank Stream has been revitalised thanks to the efforts of Bonny Hills Landcare Group, PMHC, and 35 dedicated volunteers. Site preparation involved removing invasive grasses and weeds, with PMHC assisting in both prep and plant supply. “PMHC have been a great help with site preparation and purchasing the plants,” said Bonny Hills representative Ross Smith.
Volunteers planted a wide range of native groundcovers, shrubs, and grasses—such as dianella, lomandra, conjevoi, callistemon, and native ginger—grown from locally sourced seed at the Port Macquarie Landcare Nursery. These native species will help attract wildlife and prevent erosion.
“Council is proud to support events that enhance both our environment and heritage,” said PMHC’s Dave Birrer.
Bonny Hills Landcare will continue maintaining the site and plan to extend native plantings and weed control to the roadside over time. Community planting days like this not only restore local ecosystems but also bring people together to care for culturally and environmentally significant places.
Looking to Get Involved?
Explore the Volunteering Interactive Map to explore local volunteering opportunities and nearby Landcare projects. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community or get involved in caring for our natural spaces, this easy-to-use tool can help guide you in the right direction.
