Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
Key
site specific
region wide
Community volunteers a Sydney success story
Native plants - mainly Coastal Banksia - are a feature of the Cremorne Point area
The sandstone cliffs of Robertson Point are important habitat
Locals help to keep the Cremorne Point Reserve healthy
Sydney’s natural assets are enjoyed by millions of annual visitors, but less well known is the work done by thousands of environmental volunteers and professionals.
Even in the city, isolation and burn-out can be a problem, and that’s one reason why the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority (CMA) stepped in to support environmental volunteers and workers in its region.
“In our catchment there are 3.1 million residents, 39 councils – most supporting community groups – dozens of environmental agencies, hundreds of community groups, and at least 15,000 active environmental volunteers. They all play a role in helping our environment,” Sydney Metropolitan CMA Regional Natural Resource Management Facilitator, Judy Christie, said.
“The challenge for us has been to work out how we can best support all the active and engaged people in our catchment, as well as help to educate the general community.”
Funding
To help the Sydney Metropolitan CMA with this endeavour, since 2003 the Australian Government has provided more than $1.3 million to its community support program. The State Government has also provided in-kind funding and other contributions.
Activities
The CMA has found success by putting together a team of four officers to encourage a regional focus to environmental work, providing Aboriginal support, local government support, and community group support.
“Much of our work is about networking and enabling people to be part of a larger group with common aims, as well as giving them the opportunity to share ideas, frustrations, achievements and solutions to problems,” Judy said.
“We have an email information network and newsletter and moderate three internet discussion groups. We help professional staff and community groups be better informed and organised by running workshops ranging from media awareness and fundraising, to motivating others to engage in environmental issues.
“And in 2004 we ran our first Hands-On Forum, which brought together 300 volunteers and professionals to share stories and be inspired.”
Achievements
Judy said the program was already proving to be a great success.
“People say they feel inspired, and that for the first time they feel part of a region and a program where everyone is working to a common goal,” she said.
The CMA has also developed a partnership with TAFE to provide quality, nationally accredited training for bushcare volunteers, providing them with opportunities to further their skills.
“The importance of the program is that it gives strength, skills, and rewards, and inspires those working at the local level, where most of the work is done,” Judy said.
More information
- Judy Christie, Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority Regional Natural Resource Management Facilitator: (02) 9895 7753 or judy.christie@cma.nsw.gov.au
See also
Key
Links to another web site
Opens a pop-up window