8 July 2025
Rous has been granted $85,000 from the NSW State Government to tackle Bitou bush and other invasive weeds at three significant sites in the Ballina Shire Council area.
Funded through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program (CRIF), the project will support Rous in targeting priority weeds at the Lennox Head Sport and Recreation Centre, Skennars Head and Black Head.
Photo caption: Bitou Bush is an aggressive weed threatening coastal ecosystems
This project follows the recent success of Bitou bush management by Rous in the neighbouring Byron Shire.
Bitou bush is one of the most aggressive weeds threatening coastal ecosystems, according to Rhett Patrick, Weed Biosecurity Team Leader at Rous.
“If left unchecked, Bitou bush displaces native vegetation, alters soil nutrients, and diminishes habitat quality for native wildlife,” said Rhett Patrick.
“Controlling this invasive species is crucial to preserving the ecological integrity of our coastal reserves.
“The removal of Bitou bush and other invasive weeds is expected to significantly reduce the seed bank in the affected areas, enabling native species to regenerate more effectively. This natural regeneration will help suppress future weed growth and improve habitat quality for local fauna.
“The project will also bolster the ongoing work of dedicated local volunteer groups involved in bush regeneration efforts beyond the Crown reserve areas, fostering a community approach to environmental protection.”
CRIF provides essential financial support for the maintenance, improvement, and development of Crown reserves across New South Wales. This funding stream enables the maintenance of public spaces as well as the management of pests and weeds that threaten local biodiversity in reserves.
Rous General Manager, Phillip Rudd, welcomed the CRIF funding and the continued support for Rous’ Weed Biosecurity Program.
“We’re grateful to the NSW State Government for supporting these important initiatives,” Phillip Rudd said.
“This funding allows us to enhance the resilience of our reserves and support community-led conservation – it’s a win for both biodiversity and the local community.
“This project reaffirms Rous’ commitment to environmental protection and collaborative regional biosecurity efforts across northern NSW.”
