Award for creek restoration in Newcastle's catchment

29 Sep 2014

Please note - This news release has now been archived and may contain outdated information.

The NSW Government's Soil Conservation Service (SCS) today won an industry conservation award for creek restoration in the Newcastle catchment.

The International Erosion Control Association Australasia Environmental Excellence Award for Innovation, Education and Contribution to the Erosion and Sediment Control Industry will be presented in New Zealand this evening.

The SCS won for its work in restoring local creeks and vegetation that had been degraded by urban water drainage systems.

Much of the work was done within the Ironbark Creek catchment for client Newcastle City Council.

Urban drainage eyesores were restored into stable feature waterways that improved both the social amenity and enhanced environmental and habitat values.

Several sites within the Ironbark Creek program have been used as education tools for local school children and the local community was engaged in planting days.

The reshaped and stablised water flow channels have greatly reduced the potential erosion from stormwater and revegetation has improved the ecological health of the entire waterway corridor.

The creeks within this program have been completely transformed from weed infested eyesores beset with erosion, access, safety and flooding issues into pleasing and enjoyable community assets.

"Drains were turned into waterways with valuable green spaces where the community can re-connect with the environment and their neighbours

The SCS earlier received the 2014 excellence in storm water infrastructure award from the Stormwater Industry of NSW for this project.

Karenne Jurd of Newcastle City Council said the SCS had delivered a cost effective, long-life asset that benefited the health and well-being of residents, as well as the local flora and fauna inhabiting the creeks.

"Thanks to this project the erosion threat to nearby homes has diminished and community assets such as local schools and parks are greatly enhanced," she said.

SCS General Manager David Witherdin said the project was delivered by the Newcastle consult team of environmental and engineering experts.

"This innovative work departed from the traditional engineering approach by promoting an understanding of the natural environment and working to recreate these features," Mr Witherdin said.

"We were contracted by Newcastle City Council across a number of sites and delivered outcomes that were value for money, met hydraulic constraints, improved habitat, improved aesthetics and protect critical infrastructure.

"We engaged skilled local contractors and suppliers working in conjunction with SCS staff, thereby supporting economic development in the local region."

SCS's Goolang Creek Project, at Nymboida near Grafton, was also a highly commended finalist in the awards' Environmental Excellence category.

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Media contact: John McClymont 8222 4858, 0401 712 279