Future now in good hands

A community tree planting at the wetlands was hosted by Leeton Shire Council to ensure the natural environment and heritage of the area is preserved. 

Funding from the Riverina Local Land Services helped make the day possible, with more than 250 students from across the shire participating. 

There were also many community members that dropped by during the day to plant a tree, as well as assistance being provided by the Murrumbidgee Field Naturalists Group.

The Leeton Girl Guides group has also arranged to carry out more tree planting in the coming weeks when the water on site subsides. Council manager of planning and environment Kelly Tyson said as a result of the initiative, almost 1000 additional trees and shrubs were planted.

“The day kicked off with an inspiring Welcome to Country,” she said. 

Melva Robb from the Department of Primary Industries Crown Lands also addressed those gathered, with mayor Paul Maytom providing an insight on the presence, abundance and diversity of waterbirds found at the site.

“(This is) significant to its Ramsar listing under the International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands,” Mrs Tyson said.

“Of particular interest to school children and aspiring naturalists, was David Parker from the Office of Environment and Heritage … he provided some great information about why Fivebough was a special place. 

“We were also fortunate to have Wiradjuri Elder Jimmy Ingram who organised a smoke ceremony. 

“This is a very special spiritual cleansing ceremony for all our participants – a cultural experience that many non-Aboriginal people would never have experienced before. Children spent the day getting stuck into the tree planting and will be able to see the fruits of their labour over the years as the plants grow.” 

Traditional bush tucker that included kangaroo and emu was also enjoyed by participants on the day.