Upgrades for Dargans Creek Reserve
The NSW Government has invested more than $1 million to allow the reopening and enhance the visitor experience at Dargans Creek Reserve, a 591-hectare reserve near Lithgow.
Crown Lands has funded upgrades to the main access track into the reserve that leads to the Dargans Creek Dams, and removed asbestos piping that created a potential health and environmental hazard.
About 1,500 metres of unsealed track was graded and crowned as part of the project. Improved drainage was also installed so water could flow underneath the road, to limit erosion and protect the surrounding environment.
Dedicated parking areas were constructed using bollards and access gates were installed to allow the Rural Fire Service or other emergency vehicles to enter the area if necessary. Improved signage was also installed to support the visitor experience and safety at the reserve.
The upgrades will improve accessibility, ensure vehicles remain on the access track and help stop erosion, protect water quality, and safeguard the long-term viability of the reserve as a popular recreational site.
Crown Lands also contracted the Soil Conservation Service to safely remove 600 metres of ageing and redundant pipelines that contained asbestos. The project removed 30 tonnes of pipeline material and contaminated soil to protect the environment and visitor safety.
The reserve is now open to the public after a four-year hiatus. The improvements ensure visitors and locals can return to Dargan Creek Reserve, which is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for bushwalking, swimming, rock climbing, bird watching, and canyoning.
The reserve is also a haven for many rare and endangered animals, including koalas, the Blue Mountains Water Skink, Eastern Pygmy Possum, and Giant Dragonfly, and bird species like the Osprey, Fork-tailed Swift, Black-faced Monarch, White-throated Needletail, and Yellow Wagtails.
It is also home to rare plants like the highly endangered Barradam-bang wattle (Acacia meiantha), which is typically only found in selected sites, all of which are in the Central Tablelands.
There are two disused dams at the site, which were historically used to supply water for steam locomotives until 1957, when the Blue Mountains train line was electrified. The dams are accessible within the reserve, allowing visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time.
Dargans Creek Reserve Land Manager Chairman Kevin Mccusker said:
"The Dargan Dams were constructed during the steam locomotive era, but over the years the reserve has evolved into a very popular recreational retreat. People come here to swim, canyon and climb, as well as take advantage of all the beautiful native fauna and flora.
"I am very pleased we have re-opened the reserve to the public, and I thank Crown Lands for their assistance in ensuring Dargans Creek Reserve can be accessible for years to come."
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
"Dargans Creek Reserve is a popular site for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This significant investment from Crown Lands will protect the area's precious biodiversity while allowing the public to once again access this beautiful reserve for decades to come.
"The NSW Government is focused on building better communities, Crown reserves support community health and well-being by providing public land for recreation, for community organisations and facilities, and to protect sensitive areas of environment and cultural heritage."