Working together for a cleaner Throsby Creek
With support from the NSW Government, Hunter Water has installed a new litter trap helping to prevent rubbish from entering Throsby Creek and protecting the health of one of Newcastle's most valued urban waterways. The new floating litter trap and boom system has been installed on Styx Creek, the largest tributary of Throsby Creek, where it will capture litter carried by stormwater before it reaches downstream mangroves and waterways.
The project has been delivered by Hunter Water through the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation (LSCA) and in collaboration with members of the Throsby Creek Government Agencies Committee.
Member for Newcastle and Chair of the Throsby Creek Government Agencies Committee Tim Crakanthorp MP said the project would deliver long-term environmental and community benefits.
“Throsby Creek is a vital waterway for the Newcastle community and environment.
“This litter trap will remove large quantities of debris from the creek, improving biodiversity and allowing flora and fauna to thrive and flourish.
“Throsby Creek is enjoyed by boaters, fishers, and the local First Nations community, amongst others. By improving the health of the waterway, we also improve its amenity," Mr Crackanthorp said.
Hunter Water Executive Manager Strategy and Engagement David Derkenne said the litter trap was part of a broader effort to improve the health of the Throsby Creek catchment.
"Every piece of litter we remove from our waterways is one less item impacting local wildlife, waterways and community spaces," Mr Derkenne said.
"Styx Creek carries stormwater from a highly urbanised catchment. By intercepting litter before it reaches Throsby Creek, this trap will help reduce pollution and protect the environment.
“The litter trap has been specifically designed for the tidal conditions of Styx Creek and will capture and contain floating litter for safe and efficient removal by maintenance crews.
"The NSW Government funding complements Hunter Water's ongoing work to better understand and improve water quality in the Throsby Creek catchment through a monitoring program," Mr Derkenne said.
The project also supports ongoing water quality monitoring in Lower Throsby Creek near the Newcastle Rowing Club. Monitoring data is helping government agencies and community representatives build a better understanding of the waterway and inform future decisions about its management and use.
Mr Derkenne said improving the health of local waterways requires a collective effort.
"Our local community is passionate about caring for Throsby Creek. We regularly see volunteers, community groups and residents giving their time to clean up waterways and protect the environment, showing the value they place in this waterway and caring for the environment," Mr Derkenne said.
"This litter trap builds on that work by helping stop rubbish before it reaches downstream mangroves and waterways.
"While infrastructure has a part to play, everyone can help keep our waterways cleaner by disposing of waste properly, securing loose rubbish and preventing litter from entering stormwater drains."
