Joint project to save River Oaks on Bega River

A joint project between Crown Lands and the Bega River and Wetlands Landcare (BRAWL) group is helping protect seven historic River Oak trees that are facing impacts from vehicles alongside the Bega River.

Bollards are being installed in several areas to stop off-road vehicles creating erosion near the trees and impacting their roots.
 

BRAWL President Chris Allen said the River Oaks, which are more than 200 years old, could be lost forever if bank erosion and sediment instability caused by off-road vehicles damaged the tree roots any further.

“These trees are iconic features at this part of the Bega River and are mentioned in the first European writings by explorer George Augustus Robertson when he visited the Bega Valley in 1844,” Mr Allen said.

“They provide hollows for homes, and feeding and breeding habitat for birds and animals including several threatened species.”

Crown Lands Executive Director of Land and Asset Management Greg Sullivan said Crown Lands was supporting the BRAWL proposal to protect sensitive areas of the riverbank.

“Crown Lands is happy to approve the installation of timber bollards at the end of Auckland Street adjacent to Bega River Reserve to stop the river oaks being impacted by vehicles driving over their roots and to help prevent further erosion,” Mr Sullivan said.

“Some of these trees are believed to date back prior to European settlement and are still healthily contributing to the stability of the riverbank.”

Mr Allen said the bollards will not restrict the historic right-of-carriageway across the Bega River for the landowner to access their land north and south.
 

“The site carries much historical significance for our community as it was the location of the old footbridge crossing into town and a camping ground for many local Aboriginal families working in the bean and vegetable gardens along the river from the 1940s to early 1980s,” Mr Allen said.

“This erosion control project will help us protect both the cultural and environmental heritage of the Bega River.”

The project has been assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust.