Greater Sydney local annual achievement report

Chair foreword

2024 was another productive year for our region, with landholders and staff focusing on essential land management priorities. Collaboration was invaluable in achieving our goals, particularly in pest management. Our second aerial shoot in the Megalong Valley successfully removed 95% of pigs sighted, while our expanded deer management program now covers Macarthur, Hawkesbury, and Hills Local Government Authorities. With strong participation, our biannual baiting programs continue to make a significant impact.

Beyond pest management, work at Orchard Hills is restoring Cumberland Plain Woodland with local Aboriginal communities through cultural burns and a longterm program, supporting 20 Aboriginal trainees. Our Demonstration Farm remains a thriving hub, hosting trials and donating all produce to Food Bank.

Our emergency response proved vital during the Avian Influenza outbreak, with many team members providing crucial support.

As I step into the role of Chair, I thank outgoing Chair The Hon. Robert Webster AM and previous and ongoing board members and welcome our new members.

Polly Bennett
Chair, Greater Sydney local board

Vegetable Innovation Field Day highlights and combating Fall Armyworm (FAW)

The Vegetable Innovation Field Day in December 2024 attracted over 90 growers and industry representatives, focusing on two key Greater Sydney (GS) crops: zucchini and fresh market sweet corn. GS produces 90% of NSW’s zucchini, valued at $9.6 million (2023/24), but growers now face challenges from declining wild honey bee populations due to varroa mite. The event showcased alternative pollination strategies and demonstrated biodegradable mulches as a sustainable alternative to non-recyclable plastic mulch.

Sweet corn production, valued at $11 million (2023/24), has declined in recent years due to fall armyworm. The field day highlighted innovative pest management techniques and irrigation strategies to improve crop resilience and water efficiency.

With zucchinis vulnerable to insect-transmitted viruses, novel Integrated Pest Management strategies were also presented. The event reinforced the importance of sustainable practices, industry collaboration, and ongoing research in tackling biosecurity threats. It showcased the commitment of Sydney growers and industry experts to improving resilience against pests and enhancing vegetable production efficiency.

Achievements 

• 201,023 ha of vertebrate pest control
• 323 participants at Aboriginal training events
• 21% of staff trained for an emergency response role
• 60 animal disease surveillance investigations
• 1,105 1:1 advice consultations5,574 participants at awareness raising/capacity building events
• 1,146 ha of weed management for improved biosecurity, agricultural productivity and biodiversity
• 2,081 ha of land improved for agricultural production
• 1,875 ha of land managed for improved soil condition
• 536 holdings participating in pest animal control.