Love Lake Mac’s natural spaces? Adopt one!

Adopting an animal is a rewarding and fun experience, but what if you could adopt an entire ecosystem?

That’s the opportunity on offer as Lake Macquarie Landcare seeks new custodians for living, breathing natural systems across the city, from ancient forests to lively coastal sand dunes.

Lake Macquarie City Council Landcare Support Officer Wendy Gleen described it as “a wonderful opportunity for anyone with a passion for the environment and nature, whether that’s a tertiary student studying environmental science or someone whose love of gardening has outgrown their own backyard”.

Behind the fun adoption concept lies a serious side.

Lake Macquarie’s landscape is made up of at least 131 distinct vegetation communities, each a unique system with its own ‘ecological personality’, quirks and needs.

“Like animal species, many of these communities are listed as endangered,” Ms Gleen said.

“Some need a strong, vigorous approach when it comes to management and rehabilitation, others need careful nurturing.”

“But they all have one thing in common: they yield constant surprises and secrets, from rare orchids to feathertail gliders the size of a matchbox, it’s a treasure hunt every day.”

Sites up for ‘adoption’ include Cams Wharf, home to a critically endangered rainforest, and Hams Beach, a dynamic coastal dune system that is highly visible and responsive to care.

“You might not be able to afford your own three-hectare bush block, but you can adopt and save one,” Ms Gleen said.

Other options included joining an existing Landcare group as a volunteer with no experience necessary.

Go to lakemacquarielandcare.org.au for more information.