02/04/2026
WCPS Bushcare Coordinator Paul Ibbetson recently led an ‘Intro to Bushcare’ session down at the Girrahween Park picnic area for the bushcare-curious. Participants keen to learn were also joined by some of our skilled bushcare team leaders, who came to lend a hand and help teach some skills.
Paul gave participants an introduction to the history of the valley, development, resistance to the M5 motorway and establishment of the TVT walking trail. He also explained how the Wolli Creek Regional Park sits in a narrow valley, which makes it particularly susceptible to ‘edge effect’, where vegetation from nearby residential gardens and streets brings seeds and weeds into the bush. The narrow strip of bushland also provides important continuity of habitat for both plants and animals.
John, who lives in nearby Sutton Ave, regularly runs through the park. “I came because I want to help keep the weeds under control. I grew up in this area and we’ve now moved back. We need to help look after this special place.”
A very important skill in bushcare is the ability to recognise weeds and distinguish them from desirable natives. People were given an introduction to the main weeds in the valley, such South African Veld Grass, Couch Grass, Privet, Ochna, Morning Glory, Balloon Vine and Asparagus Fern.
Participants also learnt to recognise native plants growing in the Girrahween area, like Pratia, Bursaria, Pomelia, Dodonia and the Cheese Tree. Then the team split up into nearby woodland to learn and practise some practical skills in recognising and removing weeds.
Participant Meg said, “I live nearby in Marrickville and wanted to do some volunteering in the area. I found this online – and it’s really interesting! So beautiful down here too.” Fran has already volunteered on some bushcare sessions, “I find it really inspiring to see the difference we can make, especially when we have before and after photos. Makes me want to work even harder to remove the weeds.”
