Bayside Council collaboration delivers floating haven for native wildlife

Sydney's Bayside Council partnered with volunteers from the Fix it Sisters Shed, WIRES and Western Sydney University to deliver new, floating nesting grounds to keep birdlife and turtles safe and help them thrive in Botany’s Sir Joseph Banks Park.

A NSW Ports 2022 Community Grant of $20,000 allowed the construction of the predator-safe pontoons that were floated into the parkland’s ponds.  

The islands, anchored in the middle of the ponds, are vegetated floating structures made of plastic tubing with aquatic plants, hollow logs and branches that will increase the chances of survival for both species, while the plants will grow by absorbing nutrients in the water.

Bayside Mayor Dr Christina Curry said it was exciting to see Council and NSW Ports partnering with community groups on this project to provide a safe nesting place for black swans.

Dr Curry notes “students from Western Sydney University will also provide valuable research for this project that will help improve the biodiversity and natural habitat in Sir Joseph Banks Park.

“There has been a lot of community interest in caring for the swans and I am pleased Council is doing all it can to improve the safety of nesting wildlife around the pond.”

NSW Ports Chief Executive Marika Calfas said the business was delighted to provide funding for the wildlife project, which was one of 17 grants awarded as part of the 2022 Community Grants Program.

“NSW Ports is an active member of the communities within which we operate, with Port Botany playing a vital role in delivering jobs and trade and supporting local neighbourhoods through grants and sponsorships,” she said.

“We’re passionate about protecting and enhancing our local environment. This innovative conservation initiative shows what can be achieved when we work together to build strong, sustainable neighbourhoods that deliver positive outcomes for the whole community.”

The Fix It Sisters Shed, based in Kyeemagh, is experienced in building homes for different wildlife and is especially known for creating burrows and nests for penguins and stormy petrels.

Linda Prince, Chief Sister from the Fix it Sisters Shed, said the group has learned many new skills while constructing the floating islands and adds “I’m confident these new skills will benefit our next wildlife project. Thank you to Bayside Council and to NSW Ports for making this project possible.”

Pink Cactus Props, Dragon Fly Environmental, St George Tyres and IAS Fine Art Logistics Sydney have all also supported the construction of the islands.