WFTD Project Fivebough Wetlands

Over the last four months we have been working with members of the community on a series of projects at Fivebough Wetlands. The overall goal of the series of projects is to give the area a much needed overhaul and upgrade access to the beautiful natural space located in Leeton’s backyard. Through a variety of projects ranging from painting, general maintenance, welding, landscaping, land forming and gardening, the team has tackled the tasks through all sorts of weather conditions, rain or shine. New pathways, pavers and turf have been installed to increase and ease access, artistic window frame sculptures have been installed overlooking the scenic wetlands landscape in 10 locations and a complete rehabilitation of the shelter and picnic area has been completed.

Even the car park received a touchup with new road base that will make for easy access in and out of the facility. The project is nearing completion with two key tasks left on their agenda. Bird boxes are currently being constructed and will be installed around the wetlands to make the area more attractive to native birds and increase local populations. The final landscaping component will improve habitat for wildlife by placing more plants around the facility.

The dedicated individuals participating in the program have been unemployed and have been given specialized training to ensure they are not just capable of performing the tasks required to complete these projects, but will also be applicable to assisting them find employment in a variety of fields upon completion.

We cannot speak highly enough about the individuals who have undertaken these projects and are seeing that every detail is completed to perfection. They are tirelessly working towards beautifying the community and are gaining new skills that will help make them more marketable to potential employers in a challenging job market. They have been supported by the community through Sureway Employment with Malmet, TAFE Riverina and The Men’s Shed donating time and materials.