Threats to Saratoga Island Nature Reserve by vandals and illegal campers

Authorities are investigating a series of disappointing and destructive vandalism acts in recent months on Saratoga Island Nature Reserve, a small sandy spit surrounded by mangroves in Brisbane Water on the NSW Central Coast.

There will be increased patrols and surveillance after more than 50 native swamp-oak trees were cut down on the island, which is close to Woy Woy across the water.

Saratoga Island Nature Reserve is also being damaged by illegal bonfires and dumped rubbish, including shopping trolleys, unauthorised camping and broken glass.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is working closely with the Brisbane Waters Maritime Police and NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers to address the issue and help stop further vandalism.

Saratoga Island Nature Reserve is a popular spot for boaters and fishers with shallow shores and expansive water views.

Nature reserves like Saratoga Island are important to protect threatened species and vegetation communities to ensure they survive into the future.

The nature reserve safeguards endangered swamp-oak floodplain forests and coastal saltmarsh, seagrass beds and intertidal flats. It is used by threatened birds including the white-bellied sea eagle, pied oystercatcher and crested tern.

Damaging vegetation, lighting fires or dumping of rubbish in a national park or nature reserve is an offence and heavy fines can apply to offenders.

Anyone with information about the vandalism, or anyone interested in helping clean up or restore the island, can contact NPWS Central Coast Area office on 02 4320 4200 or [email protected].

Please report any antisocial or aggressive behaviour directly to the local Police on 02 4323 5599. Always call 000 in a life-threatening emergency.

Quotes attributable to NPWS Acting Area Manger Andrew Bayley: 

“It is extremely disappointing to see vandalism, particularly the loss of 50 native swamp-oak trees.

“We have zero tolerance when it comes to the wilful destruction of our nature reserves that play a critical role in safeguarding important vegetation and threatened species.

“Dedicated NPWS staff work hard to preserve these areas as part of our conservation efforts.”