This work forms part of the landmark $24 million ‘Platy Patch Project’, a four-year, statewide initiative receiving significant co-funding from the Australian Government, the Victorian Government and Melbourne Water. The initiative is restoring waterways and create better conditions for native species, especially the iconic Platypus. Black Willow (Salix nigra) is a non-native tree that poses a serious threat to river ecosystems. It alters natural flow patterns, reduces habitat diversity and impacts water quality.

Black Willow spreads quickly along riverbanks, forming dense stands that choke waterways and degrade aquatic habitats. Removing these trees will improve waterway health and natural flow, enhance habitat for Platypus and other native species, and support long-term ecological resilience across the region.

Owen Davies, Project Officer – Waterways and Recovery, said: “This woody-weed control program is the first of many works under the Platy Patch Project. Removing invasive plants like Black Willow is a critical step to improve habitat for our iconic Platypus and a range of other native species including Rakali.”

The Platy Patch Project is a collaborative effort supported by the Wodonga Urban Landcare Network, Parklands Albury Wodonga and the City of Wodonga. Restoring these waterways will benefit wildlife and improve the environment for residents and visitors who enjoy these natural areas.

The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, the Victorian Government, and Melbourne Water, under the guidance of the Arthur Rylah Institute, with the support of One Tree Planted, Ballarat City Council, Coliban Water, Zoos Victoria, and other catchment management authorities.

North East CMA Project Officer Owen Davies with Wodonga Urban Landcare Network’s Jo Vincent & Karen Retra at House Creek, Wodonga. Photo: Helen Wilson, North East CMA