Brolgas return in numbers after Fivebough wetlands makeover

The Fivebough wetlands, northwest of Leeton, are teeming with waterbird life, thanks to earthworks that have rejuvenated this natural haven.

Local ecologists and residents have reported an increase in waterbird activity at the internationally significant, Ramsar-listed wetlands just months after earthworks were completed to improve the hydrology.

The earthworks were coordinated by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW) Water for the Environment program, in partnership with the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH). 

NSW DCCEEW’s Water for the Environment program manages environmental water delivery to Tuckerbil and Fivebough wetlands, supporting wildlife, including many threatened species such as brolgas. 

The project, led by NSW DCCEEW and funded by the CEWH, aimed to improve the flow regime through the wetlands, which had been altered over time. 

‘We’ve already seen more sightings of brolgas since the earthworks were completed,’ said Nella Smith, a member of the Murrumbidgee Environmental Water Advisory Group, who also conducts quarterly bird surveys at Tuckerbil. 

‘It’s great to see the brolgas using the wetlands. I have also seen threatened species like Australasian bitterns, freckled ducks, as well as grey teals, black ducks, magpie geese, plumed whistling ducks, and a black falcon.’

‘It means that we’re on the right track.’

The earthworks included modifying existing channels, removing blockages caused by sediment and mud, and creating flowpaths to better distribute water across the wetlands, making it more favourable for many waterbirds. 

Community groups and volunteers played a key role in the project, with local birdwatchers noting an increase in birdlife.

‘I walk around Fivebough every morning, and I’ve noticed how many waterbirds are here at the moment,’ said Paul Maytom, ex-mayor, keen photographer, and long-time patron and enthusiast of Fivebough wetlands. 

‘There have been a pair of resident brolgas here, and a whole stack of brolgas which fly in and out of Tuckerbil and Fivebough. It’s glorious at the moment; it’s attracting some great bird life.’ 

The project team will continue to monitor the wetlands over the coming season, with hopes that migratory birds will also return in greater numbers. 

It is anticipated that the earthworks will continue to benefit water delivery and improve environmental outcomes for several years to come.