Masterplan stages
A key goal of the Parramatta River Catchment Group (PRCG) is to improve ecosystem health within the catchment. One of the primary strategies is to protect and enhance riparian vegetation, which provides vital habitat for several iconic species.
The vision aims to:
- Naturalise where possible
- Enhance the viability, condition, connectivity, and extent of nature riparian vegetation
- Provide a corridor for the movement of flora and fauna species between reserves and areas of remnant vegetation
- Protect and/or provide bank and creek bed stability
- Contribute to improved water quality.
Project objectives and scope
In June 2023, the PRCG was awarded a $1,000,000 grant over three years as part of the NSW Government’s Election Commitment to undertake the Parramatta River Bank Naturalisation and Priority Corridors project.
The objectives of the grant are to:
- Develop strategic policy to protect and enhance existing riparian vegetation
- Identify priority sites within the PRCG catchment for riverbank revegetation
- Deliver initial implementation (on-ground works).
The project will fund specialists or consultants to deliver the following:
Stage One |
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Stage Two |
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Stage Three |
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This project covers the riparian areas of the Parramatta River catchment within the 10-member council Local Government Areas. It includes creeks and streams, such as Duck River and its tributaries, as well as other streams in the catchment. However, it excludes the riverbank of the Parramatta River from Charles Street Weir to Cockatoo Island.
Implementation of the Parramatta River Masterplan
Launched in 2018, Duba, Budu, Barra – Ten Steps to a Living River: The Parramatta River Masterplan was the result of extensive consultation and represents the views of PRCG members and the community. The Parramatta River Bank Naturalisation and Priority Corridors project will assist implementation two key Masterplan steps:
- Step 4: Standardise and Standards (see page 70) – Establish a whole-of-catchment land-use policy and statutory planning mechanism.
- Step 8: Bring in Nature (see page 78) – Maintain, improve, and create new habitats for the Parramatta River catchment’s five iconic species mascots as indicators of water quality and catchment health.
Progress to date
2023 | The Project Working Group, consisting of representatives from member councils and Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA), was established and reports to the PRCG Executive and the Full Group. It is supported by the PRCG Coordinator and Project Officer. The Working Group meets regularly. |
2024 | Consultant appointed to undertake Stage 1 project on literature review, mapping, development of prioritisation framework and identification of the list of priorities. |
2025 | Project Officer appointed to coordinate Stage 2 of the project. |
Funded by:
NSW Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water
Amount:
$1,000,000 over three years from July 2023 to June 2026.
More information:
Melissa Cate Christ, Project Officer
Email: melissa.cate.christ@ourlivingriver.com.au