Planting for Platypus on the Cudgegong River
Over 750 plants were planted to improve habitat, stabilise river banks and improve biodiversity at this special site!
Community Participation - LEP_035_LLC
The issue
The Cudgegong River and Lawson Creek riparian zones face declining habitat quality due to erosion, reduced vegetation, and pressure on native species like platypus and fish. Bare banks lack root structures to hold soil during flood events, worsening sedimentation and impacting water quality. The decline in native vegetation also reduces food and shelter for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, disrupting delicate ecosystems. There was a clear need for action to protect these waterways and the life they sustain—especially in a changing climate where resilience is increasingly important.
The solution
The Wildlife Waters project brought together Watershed Landcare, OzFish, Rylstone District Environment Society, and Debeaurepaire Wines to revegetate 200m of riverbank along the Cudgegong River. On April 24th, 2025, around 20 volunteers planted over 750 native plants including trees, shrubs, and grasses to stabilise the bank, create wildlife habitat, and improve water quality. This community-led effort focused on restoring ecosystem function by improving shade, food sources, and breeding spaces for native species, including the iconic platypus. The project also promoted community education and participation in practical, on-ground conservation work.
The impact
The planting of 750 native tube stock across a 200m stretch of riverbank is already transforming the local landscape. Tree guards now dot the site, marking future shade and shelter for wildlife. The new vegetation will help reduce erosion, filter runoff, and create crucial microclimates for fish and frogs. Insects and birds will return, and with them, healthier food webs. Most importantly, the platypus—seen in the river at dawn—now has a better chance of thriving. The community also strengthened its connection to Country, working together for shared ecological outcomes.
Learnings
The success of Wildlife Waters shows the power of grassroots collaboration. Volunteers, local groups, and funding partners created meaningful change in just one day. We learned that simple, well-organised actions—like planting native species—can dramatically improve habitat resilience and foster biodiversity.
Thank you
Thank you to Sean & Jay from OzFish for their awesome support in creating this successful project—a massive shoutout to Debeaurepaire Wines for hosting us and their dedicated care for the riparian zones. Most importantly, we thank your incredible community of volunteers who came along.
Key facts
- 750 native plants planted
- 20 volunteers
- Improving habitat for native fish and Platypus on the Cudgegong River