Landcare in Focus May 2026

Landcare In Focus is a biannual online magazine that features case studies, project information, photos, people profiles and science-based articles submitted by volunteers, groups and organisations involved in landcare from across Australia. The magazine content showcases articles about innovation in sustainable land management, revegetation and habitat restoration, protection of waterways, community participation in landcare projects, and excellence in agriculture and environmental stewardship. The magazine profiles the people across Australia who are actively caring for our natural environment.

20 | LANDCARE IN FOCUS MAY 2026

hitewater Creek Landcare is a new

and growing community group with

a powerful origin story and a clear

purpose to protect local waterways and the

wildlife that depends on them.

The group was founded by Kingston resident Jenny Forward after

a life changing encounter in 2023, when she rescued an injured

platypus from a roadside near her home and was envenomated

in the process. During her recovery, Jenny found herself asking

why the platypus had crossed the road – a question that led

her straight to Whitewater Creek. What she discovered was

confronting: a beautiful waterway choked with weeds and litter,

posing real threats to platypus and other native species and

nature.

Whitewater Creek

Landcare: Caring for

Platypus and Creek

Whitewater Creek runs through a six hectare reserve

where past rehabilitation has already restored habitat

for the endangered Swift Parrot and an endangered

forest community, making it an environmentally

significant site. Sadly, at least four platypuses have

died in the area in recent years due to looped waste.

In response, the group is raising awareness about

cutting loops before disposing of rubbish, while

working with council to support an official Australian

Platypus Conservancy survey site to help monitor

platypus numbers.

The group brings together local residents, families and

council staff, and hosts a popular annual Clean Up

Australia Day event. With a growing online presence

and enthusiasm for sharing their story during

Landcare Week and Coastcare Week, Whitewater

Creek Landcare is proving that local action can make

a meaningful difference – for platypus, for people and

for the creek they call home.

With support from her local Coastcare group and Kingborough

Council, Jenny established Whitewater Creek Landcare to turn

concern into action. The group now focuses on weed removal

along the creek banks, laying the groundwork for future

riparian planting. These plantings will help stabilise banks,

improve water quality, support aquatic habitat, strengthen

biodiversity corridors and reduce flood impacts.

For more information, please visit their Facebook Page:

Whitewater Creek Landcare

Words by Landcare Australia

Left: Jenny Forward at Clean Up Australia Day Event

Top: Whitewater Creek Landcare Volunteers taking part in the 2026

Clean Up Australia Day