LABOR WILL HELP RESTORE THE HAWKESBURY RIVER

22 April 2022

TERRI BUTLER MP

SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

 

SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP

MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE

An Albanese Labor Government will invest in essential restoration projects along the Hawkesbury River in the wake of two years of devastating floods.

This $1 million commitment from Labor’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program will support the Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN) to carry out much-needed recovery and restoration works for the river and wetlands.

Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said, “This investment will provide the opportunity for HEN to work with different organisations to help restore river areas and wetlands that were damaged by flooding.

“Even before the floods, these waterways and wetlands were subject to urban stressors like run-off, changes in land use – including increased development – and invasive weeds.

“Our area has been devastated by flooding on two separate occasions this year alone, in addition to the floods of 2021 and 2020.

“Consequently, the river, riverbanks, water and surrounding areas have been wiped out in many areas.”

HEN Chair Jocelyn Howden said the funding was very welcome.

“Hawkesbury Environment Network is overwhelmed by the possibilities for restoration and recovery in the Hawkesbury. We can only begin to imagine what we could achieve with this amazingly generous offer from our local member,” Ms Howden said.

Ms Templeman said, “We need to look after our waterways because they supply and filter water, pro

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