MEDIA RELEASE - A greener future for Lucas Heights Conservation Area
In an extraordinary display of environmental stewardship, Sutherland Shire Council is transforming an old quarry at Lucas Heights into a vibrant ecosystem, enhancing native biodiversity and creating vital koala habitat, ensuring this ecologically and culturally significant site can flourish for generations to come.
Close to 10,000 square metres of land has already been rehabilitated at Lucas Heights Conservation Area (LHCA), with around 10,000 native trees and shrubs planted, including 3,000 to support critically endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest and 2,000 koala food and habitat species.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd says the Council’s conservation work in the area is continuing and credits the tireless efforts of Council’s Bushcare team and collaboration with Mill Creek Trail Association (MCTA) and the NSW Government Office of Environment and Heritage as key to the success so far.
“An extensive planting program to date has resulted in a richer native canopy, providing 2,000 square metres of essential habitat for koalas, while significantly reducing the presence of invasive species, allowing native flora and fauna to once again flourish in the area,” he said.
“As a result, this has become a cherished natural space for the community whilst also offering opportunities for recreation and connection with nature through the delivery of a sustainable mountain bike facility that balances recreational use with environmental preservation.
“Council recognises the importance of supporting residents to pursue an active lifestyle and has worked extremely hard over several years with the support of Mill Creek Trail Association volunteers to ensure we got the balance right.
“I want to acknowledge and thank all volunteers, particularly those from Bushcare and the MCTA, for their contributions in supporting trail maintenance and lending insight and enthusiasm to inform plans for the future of mountain biking facilities in this area.”
The reduction of informal tracks and restriction of illegal trail bike and four-wheel drive access to the area has allowed natural regeneration and reduced habitat disruption, whilst also providing a safer space for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Thousands of volunteer hours have been dedicated to maintaining and improving the formalised trails and Council’s Bushland team continues to manage invasive species through targeted pest animal and priority weed control programs in the area.
Council offers guided bushwalks several times a year at LHCA allowing residents and visitors to explore this unique area and is committed to protecting areas of ecological and biodiversity value across Sutherland Shire, to provide a beautiful, protected and healthy natural environment where an active community can enjoy safe, accessible and diverse open places and spaces.