Visitors and local residents of Uralla will bene-fit, following the official opening of the Uralla Creek Walk Sanctuary.
Speaking at the weekend opening ceremony, Uralla Rivercare Group Chairman, Michael Batt, said the big question asked 12 years ago was, where to start.
Other questions included the status of Uralla Creek; was it a creek or a stormwater drain?
“Uralla Creek was an absolute mess, and we had to make a start somewhere,” he said.
“Uralla Shire Council supported the project and initially assisted with sediment eradication caused by erosion, the removal of (weeping) willow trees and supplying native tree plantings.”
“The official opening of the walk is the culmination of 12 years’ work and the contribution made by Uralla Shire Council is acknowledged.”
Uralla Shire Mayor, Michael Pearce, said council thanked the River Care Group, who had started the project with a vision of passion.
“Beneficiaries have witnessed a healing of their catchment area, brought about by the joint efforts of Catchment Management Authority, Border Rivers-Gwydir, CWC, Green Corps, HiCUB, NSW Environmental Trust, Landcare Southern New England, Uralla Rivercare Group and Uralla Environment.
Richard Torbay, Member for Northern Tablelands, acknowledged the leadership role played by Uralla Shire Council and the NSW Government during the project.
“Community support provided the important ingredients of motivation and momentum, which in turn resulted in a positive outcome,” he said.
“The project will be an ongoing one and will be added to in years to come.
“Locals and visitors are urged to come and see for themselves what has been done.”
Wildlife corridors are identified with mural ‘totem’ posts, while the Tortoise Track represents local indigenous people and their connection to land and water.
Directional bollards direct walkers from Porter Park and Maitland Street, along Uralla Creek, through to Alma Park. Walkers are also assisted by a largescale map in Porter Park. Directional leaflets are available from Uralla Visitor Information Centre.
