Environmental works in Simmos Beach catchment

A funding grant of $51,000 has been awarded to Council in partnership with Georges Riverkeeper to restore the creek line that runs into the pristine Simmos Beach Reserve in Macquarie Fields.

The works focus on controlling invasive weeds, planting local natives, improving water quality flowing into the Georges River and supporting the volunteer works of Simmos Beach Bushcare group.

The project will cover approximately one kilometre of creek line and result in the improvement four hectares of urban bushland between Fifth Avenue Reserve and the Georges River which is critically endangered under NSW environmental law.

“Generations of families have enjoyed a swim at Simmos Beach, which is one of Sydney’s unique environmental treasures,” said Mayor George Brticevic.

“The work will ensure that it and the surrounding area remain both a viable and attractive place for people to visit and the natural environment is preserved,” said Cr Brticevic.

The area is home to numerous endangered, vulnerable or threatened animals, birds and plants, including the Cumberland Plain Land Snail, the Nodding Geebung and the Grey-headed Flying Fox.

The project works will be completed over three years, starting this month and wrapping up by October 2021 and overseen by Council’s Open Space - Natural Areas team in collaboration with Georges Riverkeeper.

An information session will be held 5pm to 6pm, Tuesday 7 May at Loftus Reserve, Fifth Avenue, Macquarie Fields. 

If residents are interested to know more about the project or how they can join the Simmos Beach Bushcare group, they can visit Council’s website or call 4645 4000 to speak to Council’s Environmental Protection Officer.

Background:

In the 1950s and 1960s, Simmos and the area around it was mined for sand and gravel, and named after local miner Bob Simmonds. 

It was later used as an illegal dumping ground, before being cleaned up by Council and opened as a public reserve in 1986.