Endangered waterbirds are thriving at Tuckerbil and Fivebough wetlands near Leeton after recent environmental and cultural water deliveries created the perfect conditions for the threatened species to feed, breed and shelter.
Monitoring teams from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) have confirmed Australasian bitterns, brolgas and magpie geese have settled into the wetlands following the watering event, highlighting the role environmental water management plays in supporting some of NSW's most at-risk wildlife.
The watering event was managed through collaboration between the NSW Government and the Leeton and District Local Aboriginal Land Council, illustrating how traditional knowledge and leadership can help achieve cultural and environmental benefits on Country.
Following these environmental and cultural flows, the Ramsar-listed Tuckerbil and Fivebough wetlands are providing vital refuge habitat for threatened waterbirds and other native species.
In the Murrumbidgee catchment, 2,150 megalitres of Aboriginal cultural water is available for cultural purposes, with Riverina Local Land Services holding the licence. The NSW Government supported the Leeton and District Local Aboriginal Land Council to access this cultural water for use at Tuckerbil and Fivebough wetlands.
NSW DCCEEW's Water for the Environment branch managed the delivery ensuring the right volumes reached the wetlands at the right times. The watering event started with a portion of cultural water and then NSW and Commonwealth environmental water was used to build on the cultural, ecological and habitat outcomes.
Partners in the delivery included the Leeton and District Local Aboriginal Land Council, NSW Crown Lands, Riverina Local Land Services, Murrumbidgee Irrigation and the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder.
Quotes attributable to Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Management Officer Jim Maguire:
"Seeing threatened waterbirds return to Tuckerbil and Fivebough is a strong indication these wetlands are responding to water delivered at the right time and for the right purpose.
"This action shows what's possible when we work alongside Aboriginal organisations to deliver cultural outcomes on Country while also improving habitat for endangered native species.
"Working with the Leeton and District Local Aboriginal Land Council and our partners helps us support culturally significant places and deliver lasting environmental benefits across the Murrumbidgee catchment."
Quotes attributable to CEO of the Leeton and District LALC Karen Davy:
"Being able to have water return to Country and knowing the difference cultural flows make to the landscape is incredible.
"The wetlands have come to life.
"We hope our experience working collaboratively with government partners will inspire others to look for opportunities in their local environment."
