West Menai Nature Trail
(Burnum Burnum Track section) |
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The following 3 sections of the 2 Rivers Link route (W5-D3, W6-D4 and W6-D5) utilise existing management trails identified by The West Menai and Barden Ridge Precinct Residents Association as part of their documented proposal for a "West Menai Nature Trail". Their the aim is to establish "a network of tracks linking conserved lands providing access to the community", with the potential to facilitate. "environmental awareness of Mill Creek and the wider Georges and Woronora River catchments"
The 3 sections represent the main spine track (the "brown route" in the residents report) of the Nature Trail; and the community have indicated a desire to name the track after Burnum Burnum, a famous resident of nearby Woronora Valley who was an advocate and campaigner for Aboriginal rights and nature conservation.
Several loop and spur tracks are linked by the main spine. These allow access for people to experience the diversity of local vegetation such as the Shale Sandstone Transition Forest listed as a threatened ecological community. |
Also the rare Paperbark/Red Mahogany Forest: This unique community, containing stands of Melaleuca linariifolia and Eucalyptus resinifora up to 25m high, contrasts dramatically with surrounding vegetation. This habitat and the flora and fauna which it supports, is under threat from development at two sites on the plateau, and the Residents Association want to use the trail to help raise awareness amongst the community of its value and see the sites protected as conservation areas.
There has been a strong community reaction to the poor road system, traffic build up, lack of infrastructure, loss and degradation of the natural environment and uncoordinated development. |
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The Residents Association argues that the community has to put up with a nuclear reactor (emissions and potential for major accidents) and large waste management tip (odor, roadside litter, illegal dumping and incessant garbage trucks) in their backyard.
"The West Menai Nature Trail would improve the image and amenity of this often neglected part of Sutherland Shire." |
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| The Association has researched the natural, cultural, historical, social and recreational values of the area. Their findings are presented in Appendix 7 of this report. |
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• The Glen 
Sutherland Shire Environment Centre | Suite 4 (1st Floor), 2-4 Merton Street, Sutherland NSW 2232