Powells Creek Naturalisation Project
Transforming Urban Spaces into Thriving Habitats
Once a forgotten stormwater channel, Powells Creek has been transformed into a vibrant, eco-friendly space through the groundbreaking naturalisation project in North Strathfield. Partnering with Diona for Sydney Water, this award-winning initiative replaced deteriorating concrete structures with natural sandstone banks and native vegetation, revitalising the area for both the community and local wildlife.
Client: Diona
End Client: Sydney Water Corporation
Location: North Strathfield, NSW
Key Features and Innovations
Concrete Removal & Replacement: The project involved the removal of significant concrete structures, replaced by 11,500 tonnes of sandstone and the planting of 42,000 native plants, which helped create new habitats for local wildlife.
Bank Stabilisation: Extensive earthworks were undertaken to reshape and stabilise the creek banks, ensuring the durability and longevity of the naturalised environment.
Naturalisation & Reconstruction
Public Access & Community Amenities
Pathways & Boardwalks: The project included the construction of 180 metres of timber boardwalks and 570 metres of new pathways, enhancing accessibility for the community.
Seating & Viewing Areas: New rest areas with seating and educational signage were added, providing scenic views and opportunities for community engagement.
Innovative Environmental Management
Tidal Management Systems: Advanced systems, such as precast box culverts and fibreglass floodgates, were implemented to manage tidal flows effectively, minimising environmental impact.
Recycling & Sustainability: The project recycled a substantial amount of concrete, which was repurposed as aggregate under the new sandstone blockwork, contributing to the project’s sustainability goals.
Project Impact
The project achieved significant milestones, contributing to both environmental sustainability and community enhancement:
2,500 kg of plastic bottles and rubbish removed from the creek.
180 metres of timber boardwalk installed.
570 metres of new asphalt cycleway installed.
500 metres of concrete shared pathway installed.
By the Numbers
30,000 tonnes of spoil treated and disposed of.
4,500 tonnes of concrete removed and recycled.
11,500 tonnes of sandstone boulders placed on the banks.
42,000 native grasses and shrubs planted.
Environmental & Community Benefits
Ecological Enhancement: The naturalisation of 850 metres of Powells Creek created new habitats that have significantly boosted local biodiversity. This transformation from a concrete channel to a vibrant ecosystem supports the area’s ecological health.
Community Engagement: The newly upgraded pathways, seating areas, and boardwalks have enhanced Powells Creek as a recreational area. These improvements encourage the community to engage with their environment, promoting outdoor activities and fostering a stronger connection to nature.
Client Feedback
“Jarrod has gone above and beyond in delivering welcoming, passionate, and informative site tours, positioning Sydney Water as an industry leader.”
The Powells Creek Naturalisation Project has been widely recognised for its excellence in environmental management and construction:
Awards & Recognition
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Awarded to Jarrod Smith, Director of Girri Birrang, in recognition of his outstanding role as Site Supervisor during the Powells Creek Naturalisation Project. Jarrod consistently provided Sydney Water stakeholders, including local councils and the Parramatta Catchment Group, with passionate and informative site tours. His efforts helped position Sydney Water as an industry leader and strengthened relationships with key stakeholders, contributing to the future success of similar projects.
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2018 Winner: Sydney Water
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2018 Winner Project Category: Diona
2018 Runner-up Contractor Category: Diona
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2018 Finalist Asset Management Category: Sydney Water
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2018 Finalist Category 4 Project Value $10M to $30M: Diona