Video: Central Billabong landholders have been undertaking willow removal projects for over 15 years. Prior to these projects, in some areas the creek system had become blocked with willows. In this video, landholders Helene Mortlock, Russell Ford and Richard Sleigh celebrate the wonderful change they've witnessed since the removal of willows. Now, people and fish can navigate the creek system again.
View 'Wind down the Willows' flyer
The curtain of willows was removed at ‘Colombo’ in 2022 to reveal an iconic Australian view of sentinel redgums hanging over a meandering creek. Gary Williams from Jerilderie Earthmoving was out on the June long weekend clearing the willows (Salix babylonica) on Andrew Buckingham’s property at Colombo Creek. The water levels remained high, but with Gary’s excavator prowess he was able to scoop willows from deep within the creek.
As the willows had encroached into three-quarters of the creek, their removal directly improved Colombo Creek though better water flow. In the long term an overall healthier creek system is envisaged through rehabilitation of the riparian area with tubestock planting and natural regeneration.
If you are interested in willow removal on your patch of the Yanco Creek System, send an expression of interest to Andrea.
Be part of the Refreshing Rivers Program in the Upper Billabong, and join Holbrook Landcare Network for a family-friendly morning in nature as we care for the beautiful Ian Geddes Reserve along Ten Mile Creek.
LEARN MORELEARN MOREYou may have noticed a lot has been happening at the Ian Geddes Reserve in Holbrook. Learn more about the recent works undertaken to improve waterway health and create habitat for Southern Pygmy Perch at the local reserve, as well as nest box installation and an upcoming working bee.
LEARN MORELEARN MOREWhether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this workshop will teach you the techniques for propagating one of our regions rarest native plants, the Tumut Grevillea. In doing so you will be part of a program assisting with the recovery of this critically endangered plant.
LEARN MORELEARN MOREWebsite developed by the Australian River Restoration Centre