Let the experts take you on a tour of Jerrara wetlands, one of the Illawarra’s hidden gems. Photo: Landcare.
Nestled in a peaceful valley between Kiama and Jamberoo, Jerrara Wetlands and Rainforest is one of the Illawarra’s best-kept secrets — a thriving haven for wildlife and a special place to enjoy nature.
Once the site of Jerrara Dam, decommissioned in the 1950s, the reserve has been transformed through decades of community effort.
The 54-hectare site now features freshwater wetlands, remnant subtropical rainforest, and an arboretum of native trees.
More than 179 bird species have been recorded at the site, which serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds.
It’s a favourite spot for walking, birdwatching and picnicking for those in the know, and on Sunday 16 November you’re invited to come and explore it with the experts.
The ‘Picnic for Nature’ will celebrate this hidden natural treasure that has been restored thanks to the efforts of Kiama Council, local volunteers, and Landcare groups.
Chair of the Jamberoo Valley Residents and Ratepayers Association (JVRRA) Roslyn Neilson said the reserve was a gift cherished by residents and nature enthusiasts.
“Bird observation groups report that it’s a major hotspot for birdwatching, and WIRES volunteers value the healthy vegetation as a food source for birds in care,” she said.
“JVRRA appreciates the ongoing efforts of Kiama Council and Landcare Illawarra to maintain this land for the community and the environment.”
It may have been 75 years since the dam was decommissioned, but the work is still ongoing.
Earlier this year, Landcare Illawarra and the JVRR held a community meeting to explore opportunities for greater local involvement, including the formation of a new Landcare group to help care for the reserve.
Chair of Landcare Illawarra Emma Rooksby said the site represented the best of what community stewardship could achieve.
“Jerrara Dam Reserve is one of the Illawarra’s hidden gems,” she said.
“Its cool shady rainforest and thriving wetlands make it a wonderful place to experience our region’s unique natural heritage.
“We’re excited to support a new Landcare group here to help restore habitat and protect this special place.”
To celebrate the area’s natural beauty, Landcare Illawarra will host a Picnic for Nature at Jerrara Wetlands and Rainforest on Sunday 16 November from 8 am to 1 pm.
Ralph Stadus from Illawarra Birders will lead a group at 8 am on the Bird ID Walk.
The Plant ID Walk will be held at 10 am with local plant expert Carl Glaister, and local Jamberoo rainforest botanist Kevin Mills will take a walk at 11 am.
Illawarra science educator Alison Mellor will attend the citizen science table, and she will be able to answer questions about the wetlands and the Bugs in my Backyard Week Bug Hunt.
There will also be an information session about the new Landcare group.
The event is free, and families and children are welcome.
To register follow this link.
