NATIVE plants are gradually making a comeback at One Mile Headland, where families, climbers and local volunteers have been clearing invasive weeds from the coastal forest.
The Friends of Tomaree National Park group is preparing for its next working bee on Saturday, 7 November, following record registrations for its 26 September event.
“We held a record-breaking bush regeneration event, with just over 50 people registered for the morning,” coordinator Sue Olsson said.
“More than half of the volunteers had connections with recreational climbing through our partners, the Australian Climbing Association NSW and Pulse Climbing in Adamstown.”
Among them were three family groups, alongside new local participants and regular Friends of Tomaree National Park volunteers.
The group has held six community events at the headland since July 2024, clearing about 0.7 hectares, or 1.7 acres.
“Bitou and lantana are the target invasive weeds,” Olsson said.
“The work is beginning to show results, with some natural regeneration appearing in cleared areas.
“Volunteers have also planted locally grown native plants to help the forest recover and will do so again next year.”
The headland’s mix of flatter ground and steep slopes has given volunteers different areas to tackle, with climbers bringing skills suited to some of the more challenging sections.
“Our partners are fantastic: They bring new enthusiasm and agility,” Olsson said.
The Australian Climbing Association NSW and Escape Eco Adventures have helped at previous events and will join forces for the November working bee, with Pulse Climbing also involved.
National Parks and Wildlife Service has supported the events.
New volunteers are welcome, with work areas available to suit different fitness and agility levels.
The morning also offers a chance to meet others who enjoy the outdoors and take in the ocean views along the Tomaree Coastal Walk while helping to care for the headland.
Sign-on and a briefing will begin at 8am at One Mile/Morna Point Headland. Volunteers will work until 11am before gathering for a complimentary morning tea.
Each participant needs to register separately. Meeting directions and information about what to wear and bring will be emailed after registration.
For information and to register, visit https://events.humanitix.com/regen-one-mile-7nov2026.
By Althea GUINSBERG
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