Tweed Byron Bush Futures

Bush Futures is a joint project initiated by Tweed and Byron Shire Councils to improve urban bushland management.  The three year project, which was finalised on 8 June 2012, received $1.7 million funding from the NSW Environmental Trust's Urban Sustainability program.

The project aimed to

• Deliver extensive on ground works to address the threats to urban bushland,
• Raise community awareness of the values of urban bushland and the threats they face,
• Reinforce the role council has in managing natural areas directly under its control.

The project has been highly successful undertaking an extensive environmental restoration program across 60 ha of high conservation value vegetation as well as undertaking an extensive community engagement program. (Bush Futures Outcomes and Stakeholders)

The project received three awards: 

• Northern Rivers and NSW Landcare Award 2011 in the category of Local Government Landcare Partnership, and is in the running for the National Award in September 2012.
• Local Governments Shires Associations - Excellence in the Environment Award 2012

Click for a brief overview of the final outcomes of the project.

Invasive Species Management 

The Bush Futures Invasive species project in Byron Shire successfully increased community awareness, knowledge and skills in invasive species control. The Invasive Species Officer assisted with hundreds of public enquiries about identification and control of invasive species. The community were trained and equipped in a variety of ways to manage feral animals particularly cane toads and Indian mynas. There was also assistance provided to help deal with foxes, rabbits and roosters.

Click for a brief overview of outcomes of the Invasive Species Program.

Sustainable Streets 

Byron Shire Council's 'Sustainable Streets' program aims to foster community-inspired sustainable behavior change at a neighborhood level. The program consists of regular neighborhood gatherings and sustainability education workshops.

The program was funded by Bush Futures at South Golden Beach, Brunswick Heads and Tristan Parade, Mullumbimby.  

Click for a brief overview of the Sustainable Streets Program.

Milestone reports

Regular Milestone reports have been submitted to the Environmental trust which give the full details of the project outcomes. The most recent reports can be access below:

December 2011 Milestone Report

March 2012 Milestone Report 

For more information visit the Tweed Byron Bush Futures Project website.

Bush Futures Worksites