Landcare Unveils New Bombay Information Board
Celebrating Local Landmarks, History, and Nature
Capacity building - LEP23-014-LLC13-04
The issue
After six years of collaboration, creativity, and community perseverance, the Bombay Landcare Group and Upper Shoalhaven Landcare Council are proud to announce the official unveiling of the Bombay Reserve Information Board on Sunday, 12 October 2025.
What began as a simple idea in 2019—to share the natural wonders of the Bombay Reserve—has evolved into a rich interpretive display celebrating the history, ecology, and cultural heritage of the region.
The project was initiated after the North Black Range Fire of 2019, which burnt through the area and inspired efforts to restore the popular local swimming spot. The new board now complements ongoing rehabilitation work and infrastructure upgrades supported by WaterNSW who manage the site.
The solution
Over the years, the project has brought together local residents, artists, scientists, historians and Indigenous knowledge holders. Botanical illustrator Christine Payne and craftsman Michael Gill transformed years of research and consultation into a stunning hand-illustrated map and artwork depicting local flora, fauna, and landmarks.
Local community members undertook extensive research, meetings, and draft iterations to help ensure the accuracy and richness of the content, including consulting Dhurga language expert Kerry Boyenga to provide cultural guidance and a specially crafted Acknowledgement to Country.
The project was made possible through the generous support of Bendigo Community Bank Braidwood, with an $11,000 community grant, as well as WaterNSW, who printed the sign and installed the display infrastructure. Special thanks also go to RSK Welding and Fabrication (Braidwood) for the custom frame, and Top Shot Printing and Framing (Goulburn) for the final graphic design and production.
The impact
The Bombay Reserve Information Board celebrates the rich history and natural heritage of the Bombay reserve and region and a community collaboration that emerged after the 2019 bushfires. It stands as both an educational feature and a tribute to the people who care deeply for the land and its stories.
The sign's unveiling ceremony took place at Bombay Reserve on 12 October 2025, featuring short speeches, a morning tea, and acknowledgements of all those who contributed to the project. Some 26 locals and project partners gathered to celebrate and watch the artists Chris and Michael cut the ribbon to christen the newly installed display board.
The sign will stand in perpetuity at the Bombay Reserve, otherwise known at the Little Bombay Recreation Area, on the banks of Shoalhaven River in Bombay, west of Braidwood, NSW.
Key facts
- Sign showcases the rich history and natural heritage of the Bombay reserve and region
- Six years in the making
- Features hand-drawn map and illustrations by local artists
- Includes traditional language and acknowledgement of Country
- Hundreds of volunteer hours in design and research
- Stands in perpetuity at the Bombay Reserve