New era for Putta Bucca Wetlands takes flight
A disused quarry turned native bird paradise is now a leading visitor drawcard for the Mudgee region, with a project to improve facilities at the picturesque Putta Bucca Wetlands now complete.
Following the 2019/20 bushfires, the Mid-Western Regional Council received $859,700 from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Arrangements to invest in the development of the wetland precinct.
Picnic shelters, bench seating, a native bee garden, hidden animal statues and a timber playground are among the upgrades to the Putta Bucca Wetlands which has become a sought-after venue for families and weekend birthday parties.
For bird lovers there are now 13 nest boxes, a bird hide and signage allowing twitchers to spot birds that have been attracted to the wetlands, transforming it from a predominantly bushwalking area into an interactive, educational nature experience.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development spokesperson Harriet Whyte said the development has opened the space up and made it more accessible to the public.
"Existing walking tracks have been updated with better signage, stepping stones and a 68 metre boardwalk that will improve accessibility to the wetlands for wheelchairs, prams and bicycles," Ms Whyte said.
"It will also allow the track to stay open longer when the water table rises, meaning locals and tourists will be able to enjoy the space no matter the weather."
National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Acting Deputy Co-ordinator General for Disaster Resilience and Recovery, Andrew Minack said the project was a prime example of how community can thrive following a disaster as significant as the Black Summer bushfires.
"After the 2019-20 bushfires, Mudgee suffered a significant decrease in visitors for a long period of time, which is why the Australian Government, through NEMA, has partnered with the NSW Government to cost-share projects like this.," Mr Minack said.
"It's great to see the recently completed project has considered the impact of future natural hazards, meaning the Putta Bucca Wetlands can attract visitors to Mudgee while showcasing some of Australia's best and most diverse flora and fauna year round."
Pedestrian access across both sides of Mudgee has been improved with a shared pathway now connecting the wetlands with the central business district and the popular Glen Willow sporting complex.
The funding also allowed for upgrades to the carpark and for the control of wetland weeds.
Mid-Western Regional Council Mayor Des Kennedy said the development has attracted more people to the wetlands including families and school groups using the nature reserve as part of their curriculum.
"The completion of the Putta Bucca Wetlands project is a significant milestone for our community,"
"The enhancement of this important recreational space offers educational opportunities and improved accessibility for everyone to enjoy.
"Mid-Western Regional Council is grateful for the support from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and we look forward to seeing our community and visitors enjoy this beautiful outdoor space for years to come."