This article is by Melina Beecroft.
Hunter/Central Coast Crag Care held its first Crag Care Day on Sunday 8 September.th at Monkey Face, Watagans National Park. There was incredible support from the local climbing community. Around twenty enthusiastic and diligent climbers came to help that day. These included members of the Newcastle University Mountaineering Club, staff and members of Pulse Climbing, and other local climbers.
The morning began with inspiring talks from local Watagans National Park ranger, Jeff Johnson, and NPWS Volunteer and Bush Regeneration Coordinator, Nicola Booth. The main objective of the morning was to remove Lantana from the area between the Lower Crag access trail and the Gap Creek Falls camping area. Lantana is considered one of the most debilitating weeds in Australia due to its invasiveness, potential to spread and environmental impact.
The group made a great effort and we achieved excellent results. We covered an area of ​​approximately 2 hectares.
We must thank Pulse Climbing for the wonderful morning tea they sponsored. Dan Wilde has curated a lovely array of fruit, nut bars and muffins. They were really appreciated by everyone.
It was a fantastic way to come together, meet new people and have the opportunity to give back by helping to restore and maintain the ecosystem of one of our favorite climbing locations.