Replanting efforts have begun in Laurel Hill to re-grow the iconic Sugar Pine Walk, which was sadly destroyed during the devastating Dunns Road bushfire of 2019-20.
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Forestry Corporation of NSW confirmed that around 1,500 pine seedlings were planted at the site last month to begin their decades-long journey, growing in the Bago State Forest.
"These tiny seedlings have a long way to go, but this is an important step in rebuilding the site and the tourism experience of the area," FCNSW silviculture manager Roger Davies said.
"The new site will also incorporate a number of large towering Radiata Pine that survived the bushfire to form part of the new Bago State Forest tourism precinct."
The former site was originally planted in 1928 as a range of exotic species were trialled for the forestry industry.
The forest grew and became a magical landmark for both tourists and locals, with families across the region regarding it fondly in their memories. The Walk became a mainstay on photography platforms such as Instagram, was the location for numerous weddings, and even had a short film created there, narrated by Cate Blanchett.
Mr Davies said that the newly-planted seedlings - planted with funding from the NSW government - initially self-seeded following the bushfires, but were collected and propagated to now be officially replanted.
The species of pine is threatened in its native North America, and biosecurity rules prevent seeds from being imported to Australia, making the process even more vital.
"The new Sugar Pine seedlings literally grew from the ashes, so are somewhat symbolic for the region's recovery and also necessary for the replacement walk," he added.
"Locally, the hefty cones are also a favourite food source for cockatoos, so getting replacement seedlings has been no small feat.
"I am excited that future generations will be able to experience the magic of walking amongst giants."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the bushfires dealt a huge blow to ecotourism in fire-affected regions, so "the NSW Government is backing projects that will bring nature-based tourism activities back to life and support regional economies".
Grant-funded works include new and upgraded visitor areas, amenities and sculpture works under the guidance of project partners, including Sculptures by the Sea.
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