LIVING ON THE LAND
Caution urged for Western Sydney boaters this summer; aquatic biosecurity risk ramping up
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’ RE ALL IN
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With summer holidays set to begin and a scorching season forecast for Greater Western Sydney, boating and fishing along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River is expected to surge. Western Sydney Weeds Authority( WSWA) is urging recreational boaters to understand their biosecurity obligations to help protect one of New South Wales’ s most valued waterways.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Western Sydney is likely to face extreme heat this summer, alongside above average rainfall across much of the state. These conditions are expected to draw even more visitors to the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, which already attracts thousands of sailors, water-skiers, fishers, swimmers and kayakers each year. The waterway contributes an estimated $ 45 million annually to the region’ s economy.
WSWA, formerly Hawkesbury River County Council, manages priority weed control across the Penrith, Blacktown, Hills Shire and Hawkesbury LGAs. The organisation’ s new name more accurately reflects its regional remit and helps avoid confusion with Hawkesbury City Council. WSWA warns that the increased number of people navigating the 120 kilometre river this summer poses a growing biosecurity risk, particularly the spread of harmful aquatic weeds.
“ After heatwave conditions this spring, invasive weeds are set to grow rapidly over summer, with higher minimum temperatures and widespread rainfall super-charging their ability to spread,” said WSWA general manager, Chris Dewhurst.
“ A lot of people don’ t realise how damaging aquatic weeds can be. They form dense mats on the surface, making navigation difficult, destroying fishing spots by displacing native fish species, and in some cases even posing a drowning risk.”
Mr Dewhurst explained that aquatic weeds are“ great hitchhikers” that spread easily. Boat propellers and anchors can shred plant matter into fragments that attach to hulls, fittings and trailers, travelling long distances before taking hold elsewhere.
Several species, including Salvinia, Water hyacinth, Alligator weed and Frogbit, are classified as priority weeds under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.
These species must be controlled under State legislation, and WSWA is responsible for managing their spread. Salvinia and Water hyacinth, for example, can double in size within seven to ten days, meaning even a small fragment can lead to large infestations within weeks.
Under the Act, all recreational waterway users have a general biosecurity duty. Anyone who knowingly transports a priority weed into the Hawkesbury region may face penalties, including fines of up to $ 22,000. To reduce risks, WSWA is encouraging river users to adopt simple preventative measures and remain vigilant.
This summer, WSWA weed control staff will again take to the river aboard their punt, Yanung Badu, meaning Watching Water in the Dharug language, to access and treat infestations. After each trip, the vessel is meticulously checked, cleared of plant matter and washed down, with all organic debris bagged and disposed of correctly.
“ We come face-to-face with weeds every time we’ re out on the water, so cleaning the punt once we return to land is essential,” said WSWA Weed Control Coordinator, Natalie James.
“ It’ s shaping up to be a busy summer on the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, and we hope everyone enjoying the water takes a responsible approach. We all play a part in protecting this beautiful waterway, whether you’ re a local or just visiting.”
For more information about your general biosecurity duty, visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.
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THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine. com. au ISSUE 187 // DECEMBER 2025 35 MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!