Bilpin Environment Day
Nature lovers and eco-enthusiasts are invited to join the fun at Bilpin Environment Day, taking place on Saturday May 10 at Bilpin Community Farmer’s Market at 2596 Bells Line of Road. The free event runs from 9:30am to 1pm, filled with guided walks run by local volunteers and bush regenerators, as well as kids’ activities including wildlife encounters, and environment-themed stalls.
Ticketholders can learn about conservation groups and initiatives in their region and will go into the draw to win one of three exclusive showbags – containing plant vouchers for up to 30 plants, a botanical field guide, seed storage, and other goodies for green thumbs.
The event is a collaboration between organisers the Hawkesbury Nepean Landcare Network (HNLN) and Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC), and is funded by the NSW Government under a partnership between the Saving Our Species program and the Environmental Trust.
“We’re thrilled to work alongside Hawkesbury Nepean Landcare Network to bring Bilpin Environment Day to the local community. The Saving Our Species program is integral to maintaining biodiversity in our region by protecting at-risk species from introduced pests and invasive weeds. It’s great to raise awareness and support for the cause and collaborate with local experts and community groups,” said Chris Dewhurst, General Manager at HRCC.
HRCC will run a fascinating display of local priority weed species and test your weed knowledge on the day – as well as provide handy tips to help you identify and manage weeds on your property.
Local Landcare and volunteer groups, conservation programs and bush regenerators will also hold stalls, advocating for the protection of the Blue Mountains Shale Capped Forest (BMSCF).
“Bilpin Environment Day is a chance to meet local experts, learn bushland management techniques you can use at home, sign up to your local Landcare group, or chat to group members about the Landcare initiatives underway in your area,” said Monique Bailey, Local Landcare Coordinator at HRCC and HNLN.
Local landholders will share photos of local fauna spotted on trail cameras throughout the Bilpin area – giving attendees a chance to see the different species that come out at night. Interactive bushwalks will also be held on the day, including a native plant identification tour, weed identification and treatment walk, and even a birdwatching expedition – allowing visitors to see Bilpin’s beauty and wildlife firsthand.
Kids will be kept busy with plenty of activities for young nature lovers. Aussie Wildlife Displays will allow kids to experience and interact with local fauna – including possums, snakes and lizards – alongside conservation-themed games such as nature bingo.
Wildventure Landcare, a dynamic program for young adults by Greater Sydney Landcare, will also be at Bilpin Environment Day to give older kids a taste of the outdoors – and a chance to join the next generation of eco-warriors.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to engage with the important work of Hawkesbury Nepean Landcare Network, HRCC, and other local environmental organisations — all while learning new skills and enjoying a fun, family-friendly atmosphere,” said Monique.
Registration is essential for Bilpin Environment Day at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/bilpin-environment-day-tickets-1115066266219?aff=oddtdtcreator
