SOME people may not be aware of the rarity of our local nature reserves.

Less than one percent of these types of environments are still in their natural state in Australia.

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These are home to a number of threatened plant and animal species and have beaches that birds fly thousands of kilometres from the northern hemisphere to live on during the warmer months.

And of course, the Gumbaynggir people have a strong connection to all of these areas.

So, we are so fortunate on this coastline to have such treasures.

“As a volunteer bush regenerator, I have noticed a large amount of Coral Berry bushes (Ardisia crenata) appearing in our reserves,” said Bronwyn Rodden, Valla Beach Bush Care.

“The plants have dark green shiny leaves and bunches of bright red berries.

“They were even for sale in Bunnings at Coffs Harbour, but once they were notified of their weed status in this region, they removed them from their shelves.”

Coral Berry is native to many parts of Asia and Southeast Asia, and is used as an indoor plant due to its ability to survive in low light.

“But often they find their way into gardens and this is a disaster for our local bushland,” Bronwyn said.

“Recently, we bush regenerators spent a collective 30 hours trying to control them in just one section of Valla Nature Reserve.

“So, please, if you know of one, or even have one in your garden, please help our local environment and remove it, roots and all.

“If you would like to help us preserve our lovely bushland, do contact our National Parks Ranger, Lyndy Rees, to enquire about joining us in our work in our colourful insect-proof kit!”

Call Lyn on (02) 6652 0900 or email Lynn.Rees@environment.nsw.gov.au.