Galaringi Plan of Management - Parramatta City Council - NSW ...

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1 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 BACKGROUND AND PROCESS 

The preparation of the Plan of Management for Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and 

Eric Mobbs Memorial Park commenced in April 1998. 

Prior to this, a Special Meeting of the Galaringi Management Committee was held to determine the future 

direction of the development of Galaringi Reserve. Additional invitations were extended to relevant other 

parties including past funding providers and external horticultural, botanical, heritage, landscape and 

environmental academics and managers. The following aims were determined as a result of this meeting: 

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

To promote conservation through education, recreation and interpretation programs 

To conserve the existing indigenous flora and fauna of the parks and reserves 

To enhance the range and vigour of flora through bush regeneration programs 

To encourage community enjoyment and use of the parks and reserves and increase the sense 

of ownership by the community 

Following the Special Meeting, the Galaringi Management Committee resolved that a Steering Committee 

be formed to oversee the preparation of the Plan of Management by a consultant. The consultancy brief 

included the above aims for the section of the Plan of Management area known as Galaringi Reserve. 

The Galaringi Management Committee also resolved that surrounding open space areas of Cox Park, 

Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park be included in the Plan of Management. 

The Plan of Management Steering Committee consisted of local community representatives, 

representatives from relevant special interest groups and Council staff. The consultant EDAW developed 

the draft Plan of Management to public exhibition stage. The Draft Plan of Management for Galaringi 

Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park was publicly exhibited in 

November and December 1999. 

Following public exhibition of this 1998 draft, submissions were considered. A report to Council was 

presented in December 2000 in response to the submissions received following public exhibition and 

community land amendments to the Local Government Act 1993. Respondents were primarily concerned 

that the Masterplan did not adequately consider the natural values of the Plan of Management area. The 

delay in the interim was due to these amendments (Local Government (General) Regulation 1999) and 

Council’s consequent interpretation of these amendments. 

On 11 December 2000, Council resolved the following:- 

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

The draft Plan of Management for Galaringi, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs 

Memorial Park be amended to reflect consideration of the submissions received following public 

exhibition. 

The amendments to the document and Masterplan be undertaken by appropriate Council staff. 

The Botanic Parkland concept, previously endorsed by Council, be abandoned as the concept is 

inconsistent with current legislation including the Local Government Act 1993 and the Threatened 

Species Conservation Act 1995 and draft Council planning documents. 

GALARINGI, COX PARK, DANDARBONG RESERVE SEPTEMBER 2002 PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 

ERIC MOBBS MEMORIAL PARK 

PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL

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(d) 

(e) 

(f) 

The amended draft Plan of Management be publicly re-exhibited and a public hearing, convened 

by an independent person, be concurrently held as required by the community land management 

provisions of the Local Government Act 1993. 

The Plan of Management Steering Committee, Friends of Galaringi, Galaringi Park Committee 

and Cox Park Committee, along with all other interested groups and parties, be informed of 

Council’s decision. 

The Plan of Management Steering Committee, Friends of Galaringi, Galaringi Park Committee 

and Cox Park Committee, along with all other interested groups and parties, be provided with 

copies of the amended draft Plan of Management and invited to make further comment and 

attend the public hearing. 

In response to the above Council resolution, Council staff undertook site analyses in July 2001. The draft 

Plan of Management was then amended in August 2001 to become this document. 

The exhibition of this new Draft Plan of Management for Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong 

Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 2001 will be accompanied by a public hearing. The public 

hearing is required as Council proposes to alter the community land categories listed in Council’s Plan of 

Management – General Parks and Land for General Community Use 1996 for this cluster of parks and 

reserves. The requirement for a public hearing is a result of amendments to the Local Government 1993 

as described above. 

The Plan of Management will need to be reviewed on an ongoing basis to allow for minor changes to be 

incorporated. A major review of the plan will need to be undertaken in approximately ten years to ensure 

that the plan reflects the current values of the local community. 

1.2 AIM AND CONTEXT OF PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 

The purpose of this Plan of Management is to assist and direct Council in the management of the 

adjacent areas of community land known as Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric 

Mobbs Memorial Park. 

Under the Local Government Act 1993, Council is required to prepare Plans of Management for 

community land. Community land is public land that has been classified as such by a local environmental 

plan (LEP). All parks and reserves in this Plan of Management area have been classified as community 

land. Within the Plan of Management area, the majority of the land has been zoned 6a Public Open 

Space, however areas that are considered environmentally significant have been zoned 7 Environmental 

Protection (Bushland). This is detailed further in section 3.1.5. 

Plans of management may be either generic, geographic, systems or significant area plans where: 

• GENERIC PLANS - address areas that perform similar functions within an open space system; 

• GEOGRAPHIC PLANS - cover separate or adjoining areas of land that relate to a specific 

geographic feature; 

• SYSTEMS PLANS - are prepared for separate areas of land that form a system within a region; 




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• SIGNIFICANT AREA PLANS - investigate a single area of significance in terms of intrinsic value, use 

or facilities. 

This document is a SIGNIFICANT AREA PLAN OF MANAGEMENT. Such a plan is an appropriate mechanism 

whereby a substantial body of background information, site investigations, Local and State Government 

objectives, community attitudes and their subsequent interrelationships may be evaluated and practical 

strategies devised for the implementation of future capital works and maintenance. 

In 1996, Council adopted Generic Plans of Management for Sportsgrounds; and General Parks and Land 

for General Community Use. The parks and reserves in the Plan of Management area have been 

managed, by Council, in line with these generic plans of management. 

Together, Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park form an 

important public facility such that it was decided that a Significant Area Plan of Management was 

required. Over recent years, this significance has been seen primarily in: 

• The high level of community and special interest group use, awareness and involvement in these 

parks and reserves; 

• The significant biodiversity values recorded in the bushland and native grasslands of these parks 

and reserves. 

This Plan of Management for Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserves and Eric Mobbs 

Memorial Park is consistent with Council’s existing generic Plans of Management. 

1.3 COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC DIRECTION 

Council’s vision is Parramatta – the City at the Centre – the best place to live,work,visit and invest. 

(Parramatta City Council Management Plan 2001/02 – 2004/05). 

In order to achieve this vision, Council has developed seven strategic outcomes to ensure that the works 

of Council focus on the achievement of this vision. These strategic outcomes are: 

SUSTAINABLE CITY: 

Parramatta City will be a sustainable city that will have an improving quality of 

life now and for future generations 

DISTINCTIVE CITY: Parramatta City will be a vibrant, cosmopolitan and sustainable city 

ATTRACTIVE CITY: 

ACCESSIBLE CITY: 

ENTERPRISING CITY: 

NATURAL CITY: 

WELL MANAGED CITY: 

Parramatta City will be a place where people choose to live, work and invest 

People will move easily to and around Parramatta using a more sustainable 

form of transport 

Parramatta City will seize opportunities for smart growth and promote 

sustainable economic development 

Parramatta City will protect and enhance its environment by thinking globally 

and acting locally 

Parramatta City will be the best managed Council in NSW 




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The last six of the strategic outcomes above combine to achieve the Sustainable City outcome. Council 

has a four year works program for these six strategic outcomes. The development and implementation of 

Plans of Management for community land contributes to the achievement of all seven of Council’s 

strategic outcomes. 

This Plan of Management primarily contributes to: 

A DISTINCTIVE 

CITY OUTCOME BY: 

• contributing to a better neighbourhood, 

AN ATTRACTIVE CITY OUTCOME BY: 

• contributing to improved social justice outcomes 

• maintaining and improving accessibility to community services and facilities 

• contributing to improved community safety 

• improving understanding of heritage 

• contributing to inclusive communities 

• facilitating better recreation and leisure opportunities 

AN ACCESSIBLE CITY OUTCOME BY: 

• Improving pedestrian accessibility 

A NATURAL CITY OUTCOME BY: 

• Improved environmental management 

• Biodiversity conservation and enhancement 

• Ensuring waterway protection 

1.4 L OCATION OF PLAN OF MANAGEMENT AREA 

Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Eric Mobbs Memorial Park, and Dandarbong Reserve are located in 

Carlingford in the Parramatta Local Government Area. The site is situated approximately 10 km northeast 

of Parramatta, and 30 km west of the Sydney CBD. The Plan of Management area comprises a total 

of 28 hectares within the Lachlan Macquarie ward of the City of Parramatta. The location of the Plan of 

Management site in a regional and local context is indicated in figures 1 and 2. 

The parks and reserves subject to this Plan of Management are situated south of the junction of Marsden 

Road and Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford, with Evans Road bisecting the Plan of Management area. 




ST MARYS 

PENRITH 

 

MANLY 

PARRAMATTA 

CHATSWOOD 

LIVERPOOL 

Figure 1 Regional Context 

CARLINGFORD 

Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Adderton Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd 

PENNANT 

Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Honiton Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave Ave 

Figure 2 Local Context 

GLENORIE 

THE SITE 

ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD ROAD 

HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS HILLS 

 

HORNSBY 

BONDI 

SYDNEY 

BOTANY 

BAY 

CRONULLA 

SUTHERLAND 

Carlingford Rd 

The Site 

Evans Rd 

Marsden Rd 

Rd 

MOBBS 

HILL 

Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Banks Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr Cr 

Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Warwick Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd Rd 

DUNDAS 

VALLEY 

BROKE 

NARRAB 

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2 SITE APPRECIATION 

2.1 HISTORY 

Prior to European settlement in 1788, the lands in this Plan of Management study area were inhabited for 

thousands of years by an Aboriginal clan known as the Wallamattagal. The section of the Plan of 

Management area know as Galaringi Reserve was named with reference to the local Aboriginal 

Wallamattagal tribe and translates to “belonging to us”. 

Parramatta was founded in 1788 as Australia’s second non-Aboriginal settlement and was established as 

a convict farming settlement in 1791. By the end of that year Parramatta, or Rose Hill, as it was first 

called, had more convicts than Sydney Town. 

The parks within the Plan of Management area were part of Australia’s early history of land grants. 

Various lots of mostly 30 acres were acquired in Dundas Valley between 1792 and 1810. Land was 

granted to convicts with an agricultural background, and military staff. Those who prospered retained their 

land, those who did not had the land reclaimed by the Government, to be granted to others. Thirty acres 

were granted to convict Michael Fitzgerald for a period of ten years in 1804 at which time the land was 

used for agriculture. 

Due to the potential impacts from agriculture in the area, early efforts in conservation were made with the 

implementation of a Driftway during the early 1800’s. The Driftway comprised a belt of vegetation retained 

to assist with the conservation of water along Ponds Creek. 

An expedition in the 1840s discovered an area to the south of the Plan of Management area indicating 

evidence of past volcanic activity. The area became known as Pennant Hills Quarry. This historic 

geological site comprised volcanic rock, and the outflow of lava ultimately produced rich soil which 

became covered with thick bush. Convict labour was employed in quarrying and breaking the stone, 

which was widely used for repairing local roads (Municipality of Dundas Golden Jubilee, pp.35-36). 

The fertile soil in the Plan of Management area allowed for new possibilities on the land. Sheep and pigs 

were raised, then in the 1890s many hundreds of acres were converted to fruit cropping. Orchards of 

apples, pears, peaches, plums, oranges and lemons were interspersed with timber belts as the land was 

considered too steep for orchards exclusively. Market gardens were associated with properties 

surrounding and adjoining the site, with family members working on the land. 

The onset of the twentieth century brought the beginning of the encroachment of residential development. 

Single detached bungalow subdivisions were introduced on the northern rim of the Plan of Management 

area in 1916. In 1959 the Housing Commission of NSW resumed much of Dundas Valley as part of a 

major housing development program. 

Parramatta City Council became custodians of the majority of the Plan of Management area on 24 August 

1964, following an exchange of land with the Housing Commission. Council dedicated the land as a 

reserve for public recreation subject to the resumption of an easement for the Electricity Commission’s 

high voltage transmission lines. From this time the land to the north and east of Galaringi Reserve was 

rezoned to medium density housing and land at the rear of some of the properties was dedicated as part 

of Galaringi Reserve. Most building did not take place surrounding the site until the 1980s (Friends of 

Galaringi, historic notes). 




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The National Trust of Australia property was originally privately owned, the owner living on site in the 

original house named Madingley. The property was donated to the National Trust in the 1950s or 1960s 

for the purpose of preserving vegetation (Friends of Galaringi, historic notes). Council now has care and 

control of the National Trust property as ownership was transferred to Council in 2000. 

In 1983 the “Botanic Parklands Concept” was proposed, and a document titled “Botanic Parkland – 

Mobbs Hill, Carlingford Council” was produced by Ian Olsen, a contracted consultant. Council and grant 

monies received by the Friends of Galaringi funded the development of a detailed design plan for the 

Botanic Parkland which was adopted by Council in 1992. Around this time, the majority of Galaringi 

reserve ceased to be mown by Council for the purpose of allowing regeneration of native plant species to 

occur. In 1994 the Galaringi Management Committee was established to oversee the development of the 

Botanic Parkland. A Special Future Directions meeting of the Galaringi Management Committee was held 

in 1997. At this meeting it was resolved that Galaringi Reserve should be used to promote conservation 

through education, recreation, and interpretation, to conserve the existing indigenous flora and fauna, and 

to enhance flora through bush regeneration programs. As outlined in Section 1.1, Council has since 

abandoned the Botanic Parkland proposal. 

Cox Park Oval was originally used as a Council rubbish tip when Council became custodians of the site in 

1964. 

2.2 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 

2.2.1 TOPOGRAPHY 

The Topography within the Plan of Management area is variable throughout the site. In the northern 

areas of the site at Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and the upper sections of Galaringi Reserve the 

topography is steep, with a south to south westerly aspect. On the lower sections of Galaringi Reserve 

along the creek line, the topography becomes a gradually undulating gully sloping towards Evans Road. 

In the Cox Park area the terrain has been terraced on the otherwise steep slopes to cater for a bowling 

and recreation club, and a sports field. As a result of terracing, steep slopes have been created between 

the bowling and recreation club and the sports field, and on the southern and western side of the sports 

field. The topography of the southern section of Cox Park, comprising bushland is characterised by a 

gully with relatively gradually incised slopes, falling to a creek line. 

In the Dandarbong Reserve section of the Plan of Management area, the topography is relatively steep 

and undulating, with a south westerly aspect. The area has been mostly cleared of vegetation with a few 

small pockets remaining, with the rest of the site being a mown area. 

2.2.2 GEOLOGY 

The Plan of Management area occurs within the Sydney Basin which is characterised essentially by three 

groups of sedimentary rock formations deposited in a layered sequence. The lowest and oldest formation 

is the Sandstone of the Narrabeen group. The middle layer comprises Trisassic Hawkesbury Sandstone, 

which underlies the Wianamatta Group Shales that occur throughout most of Western Sydney. This 

Wiannamatta Group consists of Bringelly Shale which overlies a thin layer of lithic sandstone known as 

the Minchinbury Sandstone. Underlying these two layers is Ashfield Shale (Tammetta, 1998). 




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This geological formation is evident throughout the Plan of Management area, and attributes to the 

topography and vegetation communities present. Bringelly Shale occurs on the higher slopes in the north 

of the Plan of Management area around Eric Mobbs Memorial Park. The Ashfield Shale sequence 

underlies surface soils in the southern parts of Galaringi Reserve, across Evans Road, and into Cox Park. 

The lateral extent appears to end in the southern end of Cox Park, where outcropping’s of Hawkesbury 

Sandstone are visible (Mitchell, 1996) The Hawkesbury Sandstone is a quartz sandstone structure 

formed from the deposition of sediment from mid-western NSW, and Central Victoria (Mitchell, 1996). 

Another interesting feature of the geology in the vicinity of the Plan of Management area is the presence 

of Diatremes. Diatremes are circular pipe- like intrusions of brecciated country rock and basalt that 

penetrate the crust in short -lived volcanic events (Mitchell, 1996). Associated with this Diatreme are 

several basalt dikes which extend up to five hundred meters into the surrounding sandstone and shale. 

One of these dikes extends north-east to Marsden Road. 

2.2.3 SOILS 

The soil structure within the Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Eric Mobbs Memorial Park, and Dandarbong 

Reserve is reflected in the underlying geology. The presence of shale is represented by red and brown 

podzolic soils. These soils determine the characteristics of the remnant vegetation communities. Through 

the weathering of shale the formation of a clay subsoil and a surface layer of sandy loam has occurred 

through a slow erosion process on the hill slope. 

Soil produced from the Bringelly Shales is of reasonable quality, which originally supported an extensive 

forest of Sydney Blue Gum, Blackbutt, and Turpentine. Remnants of this vegetation community remain, 

and are of high conservation significance. Stability of the substrate on steeper sections of the Plan of 

Management site is an issue due to the clay subsoil and physically weak shale which may contribute to 

landslides after forest clearing (Mitchell, 1996). 

2.3 BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS 

2.3.1 FLORA AND FAUNA 

Despite high levels of past disturbance, the Plan of Management area contains significant areas of 

bushland both in the context of the local Parramatta area, the Sydney region and New South Wales. Two 

broad vegetation associations occur on the site’s Wianamatta Shale soils; Blue Gum High Forest and 

Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest. These two communities are listed as Endangered Ecological 

Communities under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Alluvial deposits from the creeks in 

the Plan of Management area also influence the vegetation pattern. Bushland areas are shown in Figure 

3, while plant species previously identified on the site are listed in Appendix B. 

The majority of Galaringi Reserve had been cleared previously for agricultural activities, with isolated 

indigenous trees remaining. Since the cessation of mowing regenerating shrubs and canopy species 

interspersed among grassland comprising both exotic and indigenous species occur across the whole 

reserve. Remnants of early cultural plantings remain. More dense vegetation occurs along the creek 

lines within Galaringi Reserve, which is characterised by large numbers of weeds such as Ligustrum spp. 

Privet) and Lantana camara (Lantana), however many indigenous species typical of creek gullies remain, 

including Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree) and Melaleuca styphelioides (Prickly-leafed Paperbark). 




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Seeding undertaken by Sydney Water after the construction of a water main has resulted in large 

numbers of Acacia parramattensis (Parramatta Green Wattle) and Acacia decurrens (also called Green 

Wattle) growing on the upper slopes in the northern portion of Galaringi Reserve, and extending to a 

lesser extent into other parts of the reserve. 

CARLINGFORD 

study area boundary 

Marsden Road 

Road 

MOBBS HILL 

Turpentine Ironbark Forest 

Pennant 

Hills 

Blue Gum High Forest 

Evans 

Road 

Honiton Ave 

Warwick 

Road 

DUNDAS VALLEY 

Figure 3 Bushland Areas 

The eastern section of Galaringi Reserve retains a significant remnant of Blue Gum High Forest. This 

association, while subject to weed intrusion in the understorey, and some previous clearing, incorporates 

a canopy of semi-mature to mature Eucalyptus saligna (Sydney Blue Gum) and Eucalyptus pilularis 

(Blackbutt), with evidence of strong canopy regeneration in some areas. More recently, the NSW National 

Parks and Wildlife Service has suggested this vegetation is more appropriately classified as Sydney 

Turpentine Ironbark Forest (NPWS, 2000). 

The bushland in the southern portion of Cox Park contains Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest 

association. This is dominated in the canopy by Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine) and Eucalyptus 

paniculata (Grey Ironbark). Weed intrusion is limited in much of this association due to previous and 

ongoing bush regeneration activities. The area between the creekline and Cox Park sportsground is 

subject to extensive infestation by Lantana camara and other noxious and environmental weeds, due to 

the impacts caused by the land-fill and sports ground development. 

The bushland in the Plan of Management area forms the upper extremity (in catchment terms) of a 

complex of bushland associations within the Ponds Subiaco Creek catchment. These bushland 

associations, while subject to some fragmentation from roads and other development provides habitat to 

a range of arboreal vertebrate species, particularly birds. A population of Brown Quail (Coturnix 

ypsilophora), which is regionally significant in Western Sydney, is to be found occupying the grassland 

areas of Galaringi Reserve. Eighty bird species were recorded in the Cox Park area in the 1970s, with the 

bushland being particularly rich in parrot and rosella species (Friends of Galaringi, 1993). Whip birds can 

be heard calling from the densely vegetated gullies. It should also be noted that dense weed infestation 




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along creek lines provides habitat and protection for some bird species. The Plan of Management area 

also provides habitat for a range of reptile and amphibian species as well as invertebrates. 

2.4 LANDSCAPE / VISUAL ASSESSMENT 

The Plan of Management area is visually prominent to motorists on Pennant Hills Road, Marsden Road 

and Evans Road. Busy roads and residential development define the visual catchment of the Plan of 

Management area. Evans Road provides a strong visual (and physical) distinction between the two main 

parcels of open space that make up the Plan of Management area. 

The visual catchment of the northern section of Galaringi Reserve is defined by the natural amphitheatre 

of valley formations, the visual catchment of the southern section contains extensive residential 

development. Vegetation comprises some areas of Eucalyptus open forest, dense creek line vegetation, 

and grassland, with Acacia spp scattered throughout. Present patterns of vegetation in Galaringi Reserve 

also reflect past vegetation management practices. Fence and/or hedge lines of the original land grant 

boundaries and a subdivision of land between members of the Cox family are also evident. 

Galaringi Reserve is physically connected to Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and Dandarbong Reserve. The 

physical connection between these areas of the Reserve is crucial for its current use as a major 

pedestrian thoroughfare to Carlingford Court shopping centre to the north of the Plan of Management 

area. Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the current circulation throughout the site and the character of the 

landscape. Dandarbong Reserve is a strip of mown open space approximately 40m wide and 400m long 

situated at the rear of houses along Dandarbong Avenue, Bankshill Crescent and Warwick Road. Three 

overhead transmission lines (two pole lines and one tower line) are a main visual feature of this open 

space with the base of some towers sitting partially within private property boundaries. 

Cox Park Oval is predominantly a flat playing field that offers views to Parramatta. It can be viewed from 

Pennant Hills Road or Evans Road as a large open field with little or no shade and limited parking. The 

Carlingford Bowling and Recreation Club is situated within Cox Park and its built form provides visual 

contrast to the openness of Cox Park Oval. 

Cox Park also includes a significant forest association in its southern portion. This Sydney Turpentine 

Ironbark Forest provides a natural backdrop to the sportsground and visually connects with the bushland 

in Galaringi Reserve. 

Eric Mobbs Memorial Park provides the most significant panoramic views from the Plan of Management 

area. Situated on Marsden Road at the northern tip of Galaringi Reserve, the park provides a broad 

panorama to the south-west. The Sydney 2000 Olympic site, Stadium Australia, and the City of 

Parramatta can be seen from this lookout. This view is interrupted to some extent by transmission lines 

and tall Acacia spp. that have grown since being seeded by Sydney Water. Selective removal of these 

species has already begun. 




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Figure 4 Circulation 

Figure 5 Landscape Character 




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2.5 CULTURAL HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE 

2.5.1 ABORIGINAL HISTORY 

“Parramatta” is derived from the name of the Aboriginal clan known as the ”Burramattagal”, on whose 

land Parramatta now stands. The Burramattagal were the most westerly of the Eora clans. This western 

extremity of Sydney Harbour marked the border of the lands of the “inland people” known as Paiendra or 

Darug who hunted game and the “sea people” known as Katungal or Eora who collected seafoods from 

estuarine areas. The Eora clans spoke the same dialect and shared a common culture. 

The name Parramatta or Burramatta derives from the Eora word for eel. The Burramattagal clan’s 

western boundary was possibly near Parramatta Park and the eastern boundary was probably 

somewhere between Duck River and Homebush Bay. The Burramattagal were bordered to the north by 

the Wallamattagal clan. The lands in this Plan of Management area were most probably inhabited by 

another Eora clan, the Wallamattagal. The region from the Lane Cove River to Parramatta was the 

territory of the Wallamattagal people. 

The Wallamattagal were mainly dependent on fish and shellfish from estuarine Lane Cove and 

Parramatta Rivers. The Wallamattagal also utilised terrestrial resources. Plants such as Dianella caerulea 

(flax lilly), Acacia spp. (wattles) Lomandra longifolia (spiny matt rush) Eustrephus latifolius (wombat berry) 

Pteridium esculentum (bracken) and Acmena smithii (lilly pilly) are still found in Galaringi Reserve and 

Cox Park and are likely to have been utilised by the Wallamattagal people for food and/or utility. Possums 

and gliders found in and near the Plan of Management area were also likely to have been used by the 

Wallamattagal for food and utility. 

Thousands of years of Aboriginal firing practices are thought to have created almost “park-like” bushland 

in areas of Sydney. The practice of “fire-stick farming” occurred regularly until British colonisation in 1788. 

This practice of intentionally setting fire to the landscape was part of Aboriginal harvesting methods. Firestick 

farming kept areas open to allow for easy hunting and gathering areas and to encourage growth of 

food plants such as bracken. 

The Aboriginal peoples of the Sydney area had a rich cultural life with diverse ritual practices. With British 

colonisation in 1788, 50 to 90% of Sydney’s Aboriginal population is thought to have died due to a 

smallpox-like disease. The British also caused the subversion of indigenous beliefs, the introduction of a 

foreign religion and the imposition of an entirely different social order. 

Bushland sites such as those in the Plan of Management area are important for the community in that 

they allow today’s urban society to experience the landscape in which Aboriginal people existed for many 

thousands of years. 

2.5.2 EUROPEAN HERITAGE 

The site’s location within Parramatta is significant in terms of Australia’s European heritage and situation 

in a dynamic suburban and economic environment. Dundas Valley was the site of the first land grants in 

Australia by the 'First Fleeters' in 1792. With European settlement, the area was used extensively for 

quarrying and agriculture for 170 years. 

The boundaries of the first land grants are still evident today, reflected in the vegetation within the Plan of 

Management site. A row of Turpentines are situated in Galaringi Reserve along an original fence line 




PAGE 13 

which formed the boundary between The Somers and Fitzgerald properties in the 1790s. Apple trees in 

Galaringi Reserve also have some cultural heritage significance; it is believed that these trees have been 

in the ground since the land was resumed by the housing commission (Friends of Galaringi, historic 

notes). 

Of cultural importance, early conservation management practices are also evident in the Plan of 

Management area. “The Driftway” was a corridor of uncleared vegetation approximately 100 metres wide 

and extending from Galaringi Reserve and south through Dundas Quarry. It is believed that the Driftway 

was initially established to protect water supplies. Significant amounts of the bushland remnants occur 

today in the area that was the Driftway. 

2.6 CONSERVATION VALUES 

The existence of any remnant bushland in western Sydney implies a level of ecological significance, 

given the small amount of natural bushland remaining due to European settlement patterns. The 

bushland in the Plan of Management area has added significance however, due to the rarity of the 

vegetation associations, their viability, condition and connectivity with bushland downstream. 

Galaringi Reserve contains Blue Gum High Forest also listed as an Endangered Ecological Community 

under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, (Part 3, schedule 1). It is estimated that only 0.9% 

of the original extent of Blue Gum High Forest remains. Consequently all the bushland in Galaringi 

Reserve has high conservation significance in the Sydney region and NSW. 

Cox Park contains Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest, an Endangered Ecological Community under the 

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, (Part 3, Schedule 1). As for Blue Gum High Forest, only 

0.9% of Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest remains. The Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest in Cox Park 

has high conservation significance due to the rarity of this vegetation type in the Sydney region. 

Lomandra brevis, which is a ROTAP (Rare or Threatened Australian Plants) listed species, has been 

recorded at Cox Park. Lomandra brevis is listed under ROTAP as being vulnerable, but adequately 

conserved. Eucalyptus acmenoides and Goodenia stelligera, which have also been recorded at Cox 

Park, are listed in the Urban Bushland Biodiversity Survey of Western Sydney (NPWS 1997) as being of 

particular regional significance. A single specimen of Acacia pubescens known as Downy Wattle, is 

isolated in Cox Park. A pubesecns has a high conservation significance in that it is listed as a vulnerable 

species under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, and will be managed in accordance with 

the Recovery Plan. 

The Cox Park and Galaringi Reserve bushland remnants are larger and wider than many of those found 

in the Parramatta LGA. As such, they posses a low edge to area ratio and are of a size that allows for a 

greater diversity of fauna and flora than many other fragmented and narrow bushland remnants. 

Biodiversity conservation is greatly enhanced in the local and regional area by the existence and retention 

of the natural areas in the Plan of Management area. 

The bushland in the Plan of Management area can also be seen to be significant because of its role in the 

larger Ponds Subiaco bushland complex. The Plan of Management area contributes to a larger wildlife 

habitat, as well as providing genetic diversity to the bushland complex. 




PAGE 14 

2.7 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS 

The opportunities and constraints for this Plan of Management have been identified through site 

assessments, review of previous analyses, consultation with interest groups, and Community Research. 

They are presented in terms of specific parcels of land that make up the Plan of Management area. 

2.7.1 GALARINGI RESERVE 

OPPORTUNITIES 

• Existing paths, ponds, outdoor classrooms 

• Wide range of microclimates provided by the geology, topography, aspect, climate and soil 

fertility 

• Remnant natural vegetation of high conservation significance 

• To identify the significance of the reserve to Aboriginal and European cultural heritage 

• Public education and interpretation 

• Potential to become part of a regional open space corridor 

• Prolific bird life 

CONSTRAINTS 

• Lantana and other noxious and environmental weeds are common throughout the site 

• Remnant natural vegetation of high conservation significance limits development 

• Steepness of the site makes pedestrian access difficult for some people 

• Presence of major water and electricity infrastructure 

• Limited budget 

2.7.2 COX PARK 

OPPORTUNITIES 

• Provide more shade for spectators 

• Connect visually and physically with Galaringi Reserve 

• Improve existing car parking facilities and driving surfaces 

• Grassed slopes above the oval for spectators 

• Significant remnant natural vegetation of high conservation value 

• Potential to become part of a regional open space corridor 

• Public education and interpretation 

CONSTRAINTS 

• Past usage of the oval as a tip site affects stability of playing surface 

• Lack of shade in surrounding spectator areas 




PAGE 15 

• Lack of car parking results in cars parking along Evans Road which currently limits pedestrian 

and driver visibility, and presents public safety issues 

• Remnant natural vegetation of high conservation significance limits development 

2.7.3 CARLINGFORD SPORTS BOWLING AND RECREATION CLUB 

OPPORTUNITIES 

• Community leisure facility 

• Source of Bushcare volunteers 

CONSTRAINTS 

• Area leased for 21 years (until 2019) for club activities and uses. 

2.7.4 DANDARBONG RESERVE 

OPPORTUNITIES 

• Proximity to adjacent residential houses and multiple entry points allow for access to Galaringi 

Reserve 

• Reinforce pedestrian link to Galaringi Reserve 

CONSTRAINTS 

• Overhead power lines limit potential height of tree canopies 

• Proximity to adjacent residential houses limits acceptable noise levels associated with children’s 

play 

• Lateral slope across the reserve 

• Proximity to residents limits uses 

• Drainage from adjacent residential properties located above the park. 

2.7.5 ERIC MOBBS MEMORIAL PARK 

OPPORTUNITIES 

• Panoramic views to Parramatta, Stadium Australia, south and western Sydney 

• Opportunity to create safe pedestrian access to Galaringi Reserve and Cox Park 

• Tourism potential 

CONSTRAINTS 

• As trees are becoming established panoramic views are being blocked 

• Major electricity towers detract from the views 




PAGE 16 

2.8 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT 


Community involvement in the management of Galaringi Reserve has been significant over the past 18 

years. The Friends of Galaringi – The Carlingford Botanic Parkland Inc. was formed in 1984 to progress 

the development of a Botanic Parkland at Galaringi Reserve. A Botanic Parkland concept was first 

proposed for the Galaringi Reserve site in 1983 and further analyses and detailed designs for a Botanic 

Parkland were produced up until 1992. Council adopted these designs and the Botanic Parkland 

proposal. 

The Friends of Galaringi were successful in obtaining a variety of grants for design and on site works. On 

site works that were funded by grants and additional Council funding included pathways, ponds, bush 

regeneration and planting of garden beds. 

Over the past 18 years, The Friends of Galaringi have been very active in raising community awareness 

about the natural and cultural values of Galaringi Reserve and surrounding open space. They have 

focused on the proposed Botanic Parkland, interpretive walks, community working bees and public 

meetings have all been coordinated by the Friends of Galaringi. The Friends of Galaringi have also 

engaged the expertise of Botanists, Geologists and other specialists to undertake interpretive studies of 

the Plan of Management site and the surrounding Dundas Valley area. 

In December 2000, Council voted to abandon the Botanic Parkland concept for Galaringi Reserve due to 

a lack of broad community support and new legislation protecting the site’s bushland. Council found that 

the Botanic Parkland concept was inconsistent with amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 and 

the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Up until this time, the Friends of Galaringi were involved 

in a number of committees including a Management Committee, which was established in 1994 to 

oversee the development and ongoing management of the Botanic Parkland. The Galaringi Management 

Committee consisted of the Lord Mayor of the day, Councillors, a National Trust Representative, two 

community representatives and an executive member of the Friends of Galaringi. 

A Galaringi Park Committee exists under delegation of Council with the membership similar to that of the 

Friends of Galaringi. Following a public meeting, Council re-appointed the Galaringi Park Committee in 

April 2000. The Friends of Galaringi also continue to meet. The members of both these groups continue 

to undertake regular on-site works such as weeding, rubbish removal and bush regeneration. 

In 1997, some members of the Galaringi Management Committee expressed their concerns that ongoing, 

broad community support for the Botanic Parkland proposal had significantly decreased and as a result, 

Council would find it difficult to continue to support the Botanic Parkland project. 

Consequently, a Special Meeting of the Management Committee was held to determine the future 

direction of the development of Galaringi Reserve (see Section 1.1). 

Two executive members of the Friends of Galaringi were involved in the development of previous drafts 

of this Plan of Management, as they were members of the Plan of Management Steering Committee. The 

Plan of Management Steering Committee’s role was to oversee the Council’s development (in partnership 

with a consultant) of the Plan of Management. 

The Friends of Galaringi and the Galaringi Park Committee’s participation in the Plan of Management 

process is still encouraged as the Council resolved in December 2000 that “the Plan of Management 




PAGE 17 

Steering Committee, Friends of Galaringi, Galaringi Park Committee and Cox Park Committee, along with 

all other interested groups and parties, be provided with copies of the amended draft Plan of 

Management and invited to make further comment and attend the public hearing.” 


Community involvement in the management of Cox Park has revolved primarily around the sportsground 

and its associated amenities. The Cox Park Committee was set up, under delegated authority of Council, 

for this purpose. The Cox Park Committee consists of sporting user groups and the local community. The 

Dundas Rugby Union Club and a number of cricketing clubs utilise the Cox Park Sportsground throughout 

the entire year. 

The maintenance access to Cox Park from Honiton Ave East has been planted with various shrubs by the 

resident living in the adjacent residence. 

A member of the Cox Park Committee was involved in the development of the first draft Plan of 

Management, being a representative on the Steering Committee. 


Organised community involvement in the management of this reserve has been minimal to date. One 

resident has recently planted trees in the reserve adjacent to the rear of their property in Warwick Rd. 

Carlingford Public School has been involved in community planting days with Council at the north western 

end of the reserve. 


Community involvement in this park took place in the early 1980s with the installation of a memorial to a 

former mayor, Eric Mobbs. 

2.9 SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE 

Within the study area major electricity and water infrastructure occurs, which needs to be considered for 

any planned development, planting, or bush regeneration works. To address potential issues with 

infrastructure, Council staff consulted with staff from the relevant managing bodies, including Integral 

Energy, Energy Australia, and Sydney Water. 

2.9.1 INTEGRAL ENERGY 

Integral Energy manages low voltage and some high voltage over head cables, which are located along 

Evans Road. They also manage a low voltage underground cable that feeds into buildings located along 

Pennant Hills Road. The location of over head and underground cables are indicated in the Master Plan. 

Council is required to consult with Integral Energy prior to undertaking any activity that involves 

earthworks in the vicinity of underground cables. Any tree planting or bush regeneration occurring near 

powerlines or poles should allow for access tracks of approximately 4.5 metres in width. Vegetation 

canopy should not be permitted to occur within 3 metres of powerlines. 




PAGE 18 

2.9.2 ENERGY AUSTRALIA 

High voltage powerlines managed by Energy Australia occur within the Plan of Management area, and 

pose minor issues for management. Powerlines extend from Eric Mobbs Memorial Park, through 

Galaringi Reserve, and into Dandarbong Reserve where they exit the Plan of Management area. The 

powerlines are supported by three towers, located in Eric Mobbs Memorial Park, Galaringi Reserve, and 

Dandarbong Reserve. 

Energy Australia, have indicated that the main issue affecting powerlines and towers are the proximity of 

vegetation. It has been recommended that vegetation should be kept approximately nine metres away 

from powerlines. Vegetation should also be kept three metres away from towers, with no plantings inside 

barricades surrounding the structures. This requirement is to facilitate maintenance, and prevent the 

climbing of towers. 

Currently the proximity of vegetation to powerlines is only a minor issue. Due to the topography of the 

northern section of the Plan of Management area, the steep slope ensures that vegetation does not 

interfere with powerlines in the Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and Galaringi Reserve area. However, 

vegetation does encroach on the powerlines in Dandarbong Reserve, and has undergone pruning by 

Energy Australia in June, 2001. 

Access for maintenance of the towers is adequately allowed for within the Plan of Management area as 

all towers are readily accessible. The tower in Eric Mobbs Memorial Park can be accessed via Pennant 

Hills Road, the tower in Galaringi Reserve from Marsden Road, and there are multiple access ways into 

Dandarbong Reserve from Charlotte Street and Dandarbong Avenue, Carlingford. 

2.9.3 SYDNEY WATER 

Within the Plan of Management area infrastructure to support water distribution is extensive. Water mains 

are located throughout the parks and reserves at a depth of 0.6 metres, and underneath Evans Road at a 

depth of 1 metre. The location of water mains is indicated on the master plan. To assist with the 

preparation of the Plan of Management, Sydney Water was consulted to provide advice on best 

management practices for water infrastructure. Sydney Water indicated that there are several major 

issues to consider. 

They have advised that nothing should be built over water mains, and that the elevation of the ground 

above infrastructure must not be altered. Due to the relatively close proximity to the surface, heavy 

machinery should not be driven over water mains. This issue requires some consideration as a fire trail 

access route on the northern boundary of Galaringi Reserve is currently overlying water mains. 

Access to inspect and maintain infrastructure needs to be gained yearly. Currently there is adequate 

access to infrastructure below Eric Mobbs Memorial Park, however access to the scour line near Pond 2 

is inadequate. Another issue to consider is flooding of Pond 2 which occurs as a result of dewatering 

reservoirs during routine maintenance. 




PAGE 19 

2.10 COUNCIL MANAGEMENT 

A number of Council units are responsible for the care and control of the community land in the Plan of 

Management area. 

The Open Space and Recreation Unit is responsible for the general management and maintenance of 

open space areas, including mowing, installation and maintenance of facilities. Open Space and 

Recreation is also responsible for the coordination of park committees (see Section 2.8 Community 

Involvement). 

The Environment and Health Unit is responsible for the management of public bushland areas. 

Environment and Health’s Bushland Management Team manages contractors undertaking bushland 

restoration projects, volunteers under Council’s Volunteer Bushcare Program and provides 

recommendations regarding developments in and adjacent to bushland areas. The Bushland 

Management Team also organises and supervises community planting activities. 

Council’s Infrastructure Unit is responsible for the management and maintenance of public roads and 

drainage including Evans Rd. 

Other units have involvement in the Plan of Management area from time to time as required. Property 

Unit is involved in matters of leases, the Outcomes Group in zoning, strategic and integrated planning 

matters, and Design Services in landscape design, traffic facilities and road design. 




PAGE 20 

3. SUPPORTING LEGISLATION, POLICY, AND PLANS 

3.1 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 

The Plan of Management has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Local 

Government Act 1993 including Local Government (General) Regulation 1999. There are also a number 

of other pieces of legislation and Government policies that are relevant to the ongoing management of the 

subject community land. Legislation and policies with direct relevance to the Plan of Management area 

are described below. 

3.1.1 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1993 

SECTION 7 

PURPOSE OF THE ACT 

One of the objectives of the Local Government Act 1993 is for Council, Councillors, Council employees 

and others involved with Council such as contractors and volunteers to have regard to the principles of 

ESD (Ecologically Sustainable Development) in carrying out their responsibilities. In practice, this means 

effective integration of ecological and environmental considerations in decision-making processes. This is 

intended to be achieved by implementing the four (4) principles of precautionary principle, conservation of 

biological diversity, intergenerational equity and improved valuation of costs to include environmental 

costs and incentives. 

This Plan of Management shows regard to the principles of ESD in that a large portion of the Plan of 

Management area has been categorised as Natural Area – Bushland (see Section 5.1). Where 

community land in the Plan of Management area is not categorised as bushland, measures have been 

included to minimise impacts on bushland and waterways in order to protect the natural values of the 

area. 

SECTION 8 

COUNCILS’ CHARTER 

The Charter is a fundamental set of principles to guide NSW Local Government operations. Under The 

Charter all Councils are required: 

• To provide adequate, equitable, and appropriate services and facilities for the community after 

due consultation * 

• To exercise leadership to promote cultural diversity 

• To promote and plan for the needs of children * 

• To properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the environment of the 

area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of 

ecologically sustainable development (ESD) * 

• To have regard to the long term and cumulative effects of its decisions * 

• To effectively account for and manage public assets * 

• To facilitate the involvement of Councillors, the public, users of facilities and services and Council 

staff in Local Government matters * 

• To raise funds by rates, charges and fees, investment incomes and borrowing’s, and grants * 




PAGE 21 

• To keep the community informed about its activities * 

• To ensure that council acts consistently in its regulatory functions 

• To be a responsible employer 

This Plan of Management is consistent with The Charter particularly in relation to those points marked * 

above. 

PART 2 – PUBLIC LAND 

DIVISION 1 

CLASSIFICATION AND RECLASSIFICATION OF PUBLIC LAND 

This division of the Act outlines the means by which public land is classified as operational or community 

land. All land subject to this Plan of Management is classified as community land under this division of the 

Act. 

DIVISION 2 

USE AND MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNITY LAND 

This division of the Act outlines allowable uses and management of community land and the contents and 

processes for developing plans of management. Sections 35 and 36 are summarised below as they are 

of particular importance. 

SECTION 35 AND 36 

PLANS OF MANAGEMENT FOR COMMUNITY LAND 

The Local Government Act requires all Councils to prepare a Plan of Management for land classified as 

community land. The land in the Plan of Management area is zoned as community land. This section of 

the Act contains a range of requirements regarding the content of a Plan of Management and the 

procedures for public exhibition and adoption by Council. 

According to the Act, a Plan of Management must identify: 

• the category of the land; 

• the objectives and performance targets of the land; 

• the means by which Council proposes to achieve the Plan’s objectives and performance targets; 

• the manner in which Council proposes to assess its performance. 

With regard to categorisation of land, the Act contains a categorisation scheme. Land within the Plan of 

Management area falls under four of those categories - Park, Natural Area (Bushland), General 

Community Use and Sportsground (see Section 5.1). This section of the Act also contains the Core 

Objectives for the various categories of community land. These categories (and associated Core 

Objectives) were allocated to the Plan of Management for the parks and reserves according to the 

guidelines in the Local Government Act (General) Regulation 1999. 

SECTION 428 

ANNUAL REPORTS 

Council is required to prepare an annual report including a report as to the state of the environment. In 

order to determine the existing state of the environment and to assess changes in the environment, 

baseline information needs to be collected. The undertaking of flora and fauna surveys and bushland 

restoration to protect biodiversity is proposed under this Plan of Management. The information collected 

from the implementation of this Plan of Management will contribute towards the environmental reporting 

required for Council's annual reports. 




PAGE 22 

3.1.2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT (GENERAL) REGULATION 1999 

PART 3 

DIVISION GUIDELINES FOR THE CATEGORISATION OF COMMUNITY LAND 

This division sets out the guidelines for categorisation of community land. Council is preparing draft Plans 

of Management under Section 36 of the Act must have regard to the guidelines set out in this division. 

The categorisation of the parks and reserves in this Plan of Management utilised the guidelines contained 

within this division. 

PART 3 DIVISION 2 

PREPARATION AND ADOPTION OF DRAFT PLANS OF MANAGEMENT 

The development and adoption of this Plan of Management is and will be consistent with that which is 

contained within this division. 

PART 3 DIVISION 3 

OTHER MATTERS 

This Plan of Management allows for the leasing of the Carlingford Sports, Bowling and Recreation Club 

as a community leisure facility in line with the provisions of this section of the regulation. 

SECTION 29 

DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN - ACTIVITIES RELATING TO ESD 

When preparing its draft Management Plan (which details Council’s activities for at least the next 3 years 

and outlines Council’s revenue policy for the next year – S 402), Council must consider its state of the 

environment report. The implementation of this Plan of Management will assist Council in its 

consideration of the state of the environment as described above under Section 428 of the Act. 

3.1.3 THREATENED SPECIES CONSERVATION ACT 1995 

The objectives of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 as identified in the National Parks and 

Wildlife Service TSC Act Circular No.1 are as follows: 

• to conserve biological diversity and promote ecologically sustainable development; 

• to prevent the extinction and promote the recovery of threatened species, populations and 

ecological communities; 

• to protect the critical habitat of those threatened species, populations and communities that are 

endangered; 

• to eliminate or manage certain processes that threaten the survival or evolutionary development 

of threatened species, populations and ecological communities; 

• to ensure that the impact of any action affecting threatened species, populations and ecological 

communities is properly assessed; and 

• to encourage the conservation of threatened species, populations and ecological communities by 

the adoption of measures involving cooperative management. 

Council has identified a single specimen of the threatened species Acacia pubescens (Downy Wattle) in 

the Plan of Management area. A. pubescens is listed as vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act. 

Two endangered ecological communities (listed under Schedule 3 of the TSC Act) are found in the Plan 

of Management area, these are Blue Gum High Forest and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest. 




PAGE 23 

The TSC Act provides for the development of recovery plans for threatened species, populations and 

communities listed under the Act. A recovery plan delineates, justifies and schedules the research and 

management actions necessary to support the recovery of the threatened species, population or 

community. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service have recently advised that a preliminary draft 

Recovery Plan for Cumberland Plain Endangered Ecological Communities will be on public exhibition in 

2001. A draft recovery plan for Acacia pubescens was prepared and exhibited in 2000, however, it did not 

identify the specimen in Cox Park. 

3.1.4 NOXIOUS WEEDS ACT, 1993 

Weeds are declared noxious if they pose a threat to human health, the environment, or the agricultural 

industry. To facilitate the legal obligations of the Noxious Weeds Act, a framework for state-wide control 

of noxious weeds by the Minister for Agriculture and authorities including local Councils has been 

developed. 

The framework includes four categories of noxious weeds (W1, W2, W3, W4) defining the level of control 

required. The parks and reserves in the Plan of Management area contain W2 and W4 category weeds 

only with the required controls as follows: 

W2 

W4 

Noxious weeds which pose a threat to agriculture, the environment, or the community, and have 

the potential to spread to other lands. The weed must be fully and continuously suppressed and 

destroyed. 

Noxious weeds which pose a threat to agriculture, the environment, or the community, and have 

the potential to spread to other lands, and for which the specified action, is different to that 

required under any of the other categories, must be taken. 

The Plan of Management area contains W2 weeds such as Blackberry and Lantana and W4 weeds such 

as Privet. Both Council and the Friends of Galaringi have been and are continuing to undertake staged 

noxious weed removal in Cox Park and Galaringi Reserve. 

3.1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT, 1979 

PART 3 

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING INSTRUMENTS 

This part of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 allows for the making of environmental 

planning instruments. These instruments include Local Environment Plans (LEPs) and Development 

Control Plans (DCPs). 

Parramatta City Councils comprehensive LEP 2001 was gazetted by the Department of Urban Affairs and 

Planning in November 2001. The LEP 2001 supercedes the LEP (Dundas ward 1993) which previously 

applied to the Plan of Management area. 

Under the comprehensive LEP 2001 Galaringi Reserve has been zoned 7 Environmental Protection 

(Bushland) in the south-eastern portion, and the former National Trust Property which is now included as 

part of the reserve. The north western portion of Galaringi Reserve has been zoned 6a Public Open 

Space. The section of Cox Park covered by bushland has also been zoned 7 Environmental Protection 




PAGE 24 

(Bushland), and all other sections of the Plan of Management area remain as 6(a) Public Open Space. 

The land Zoning implemented in the Plan of Management area is illustrated in appendix C. 

The objectives for management of the land classified under the zones 6(a) Public Open Space and zone 

7 Environmental Protection (Bushland) are outlined below. 

ZONE 6A PUBLIC OPEN SPACE OBJECTIVES 

(a) to identify public land owned or managed by the Council or other public authorities and used for open 

space and public recreational purposes 

(b) to enable development of land for open space and recreational purposes 

(c) to enable ancillary development or related uses which will encourage the enjoyment of land zoned for 

recreational purposes 

(d) to enhance, restore, and protect the natural environment 

ZONE 7 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION (BUSHLAND) - OBJECTIVES 

(a) to conserve, manage and enhance biodiversity, rare and threatened species, remnant habitat, and 

the ecological viability of the land 

(b) to protect environmentally sensitive remnant habitats and communities 

(c) to increase the community’s awareness and appreciation of remnant habitats and biodiversity 

(d) to protect the aesthetic, heritage, recreational, educational and scientific value of the bushland 

(e) to allow uses for scientific and educational purposes 

PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL HERITAGE LEP 

The study area is affected by Council's heritage LEP, known formally as Parramatta Local Environmental 

Plan 1996 (heritage and conservation). There are three sites within the study area that are separately 

listed as heritage items of local significance in Schedule 2 of the heritage LEP: Galaringi Reserve, Mobbs 

Hill Reserve and the Eric Mobbs Memorial. These were all addressed within Council's 1993 Heritage 

Study, which contains further information including statements of significance for each site. Galaringi 

Reserve and Mobbs Hill Reserve are both listed under the theme 'recognition of natural areas', whilst the 

Eric Mobbs Memorial is listed under the theme 'Twentieth Century Town - Local Government Institutions.' 

In the event of any proposed development on a site containing a heritage item the heritage LEP 

requirements apply. Development consent is required for a range of proposed development types 

including demolishing, altering or moving a heritage item. 

It is noted that the listing of the Eric Mobbs memorial as a heritage item is an appropriate form of 

management, because the heritage LEP is very much directed at protecting items of built heritage. The 

listing of the Mobbs Hill Reserve and Galaringi Reserve are problematic, because all sorts of 

requirements flow from the heritage LEP which are not necessarily suited to the management of natural 

areas. At this point, the inclusion of these sites as heritage items is not necessarily seen by Council as 




PAGE 25 

the most appropriate management tool, especially given the advent of this Plan of Management. If and 

when a review takes place of Council's heritage items, it may be of consideration that these sites are 

excluded. However, until a review occurs, ongoing management needs to acknowledge the requirements 

of the heritage LEP. 

3.1.6 RURAL FIRES ACT, 1997 

This Act has been established to enable local control authorities to provide protection to people, property, 

and the environment from bushfire. In accordance with Part 3 Division 4 of the Act, the Bushfire Coordinating 

Committee (BFCC) is required to establish a Bushfire Management Committee (BFMC). These 

committee’s are required to be formed in each Local Government area containing a rural fire district, or 

fire district with a bushfire risk. It is the responsibility of the BFMC to prepare a Bushfire Risk 

Management Plan for its area of responsibility. 

The objectives of the Bushfire Management Plan include; 

• To reduce the risk of bushfire damage to life, property and the environment 

• Ensure that the community is well informed on bushfire protection measures and prepared for 

bushfire events 

• Ensure that the public and private land owners and occupiers understand their bushfire 

management responsibilities 

• To minimise the risk to the safety of firefighters and the public by reducing the potential for severe 

bushfires 

• Encourage community participation in appropriate bushfire risk management 

This Plan of Management considers bushfire risk in that firebreaks and fuel reduced zones will be 

maintained as currently exist where required. 

3.2 SUPPORTING POLICIES AND PLANS 

3.2.1 STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICY (SEPP) NO. 19 - BUSHLAND IN URBAN 

AREAS 

The aim of SEPP No. 19 is the protection and preservation of bushland zoned as public open space in 

urban areas. SEPP No. 19 recommends the preparation of Plans of Management for urban bushland. 

While this Plan of Management has been prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act, it is 

compatible with the intentions and objectives of SEPP No. 19. 

Of particular relevance, is the requirement for Council to ensure that any development on land adjoining 

the Plan of Management area’s bushland is compatible with the protection and preservation of the 

bushland. 




PAGE 26 

3.2.2 GREEN WEB – MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SYDNEY REGION, 1997 

Green Web is a project initiated by the Sydney Regional Organisations of Councils in recognition of the 

benefit for Councils in adopting a consistent and cooperative approach to vegetation management. The 

project consists of three parts; 

1. An action plan for Local Government outlining policies, planning strategies, development controls and 

management practices for vegetation management. 

2. The production of a set of 6 maps and LGA profile sheets identifying remnant vegetation and 

revegetation sites in the Sydney Metropolitan Region. 

3. A summary of the native vegetation communities in Sydney 

Council’s integrated Bushland Management Program meets the objectives of Green Web and applies the 

recommended actions for best practice vegetation management. The Green Web is in the process of 

being updated to improve mapping and respond to legislative changes. 

3.2.3 DRAFT PARRAMATTA LOCAL ENVIRONMENT PLAN, 2000 

The Draft Parramatta Local Environment Plan is a strategic statutory document that has been prepared 

under Part 3 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. The community land in the Plan 

of Management area has been zoned Public Open Space 6(a), and Environmental Protection Bushland 7. 

The draft LEP 2000 consolidates previous LEPs into one updated document. 

3.2.4 PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL RECREATION PLAN, 1994 

The Parramatta City Council Recreation Plan consists of seven booklets each detailing different 

recreational issues within the LGA. 

Of these seven booklets, those that provide relevant guidelines for the Plan of Management area are 

outlined below. 

1. OPEN SPACE IN PARRAMATTA – It is recognised that Open Space is an important part of Council’s 

land and community services resource management responsibilities. This booklet provides 

standards for Open Space, defines categories and types of Open Space, and details 

management recommendations. 

2. COMMUNITY USE OF OPEN SPACE IN PARRAMATTA – In recognition of the diversity of types of Open 

Space in the LGA, Council developed this booklet to better understand and improve the 

management of community use of Open Space. The content of this booklet has been based on a 

number of community surveys undertaken to determine how open space is currently being used, 

park improvements that are required, and issues of concern. 

3. PLAYGROUNDS IN PARRAMATTA – This booklet was prepared to provide guidelines for the 

implementation and management of playgrounds in the Parramatta LGA, as a substantial number 

of open space parcels of land contain playgrounds. This booklet details the demographics of 

children within the LGA, the distribution and types of playgrounds, and community feedback. 

These details are used to assist with the provision of management recommendations. 




PAGE 27 

4. PARK COMMITTEES IN PARRAMATTA – Park Committees are an integral part of Council’s strategy 

for the maintenance, management, and development of open space in the LGA. Park 

Committees are involved with sports grounds, parks, small parks/ playgrounds, urban bushland, 

and waterway corridors. This booklet provides an inventory of park committees operating in the 

LGA, and both the Council and Committee roles in the development and maintenance of 

community land. 

5. SPORTS IN PARRAMATTA – Council provides a large number of sportsgrounds in the Parramatta 

LGA. This booklet examines the distribution and types of sportsgrounds, community usage 

patterns and population dynamics, and the needs of sports groups using the various facilities. 

These issues provide directions for management, maintenance and improvement of 

sportsgrounds. 

6. RECREATION PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES IN PARRAMATTA – Have been developed in the recognition 

of the health and social benefits gained from participating in sporting and recreational activities. 

This booklet provides an overview of the demographics of the population in the LGA, types of 

programs and activities catered for by various organisations and Government departments. 

Survey results of community needs are also reviewed and contribute to the provision of 

management recommendations. 

This Plan of Management responds to a number of recommendations outlined in the Recreation Plan 

1994. 

3.2.5 NSW BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY, 1999 

The Strategic Goal of the NSW Biodiversity Strategy is to protect the native biological diversity of NSW 

and maintain ecological processes and systems. The strategy aims to bridge the gap between current 

activities and the effective identification, conservation and management of Australia’s biodiversity. 

Management of biodiversity is deemed to be a collective responsibility of the community and government 

including Local Government. The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 established the framework 

for development of this strategy. National and international Biodiversity strategies also exist as well as 

both state and national biodiversity planning documents. 

This Plan of Management is consistent with the aims of the NSW Biodiversity Strategy in that protection 

and best practice restoration of natural ecosystems and associated flora and fauna is proposed. 

Community involvement, engagement and empowerment are also proposed in managing the biodiversity 

values of the Plan of Management area. 

3.2.6 URBAN BUSHLAND BIODIVERSITY SURVEY OF WESTERN SYDNEY, 1997 

An initiative of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, one of the key objectives of the NSW Urban 

Bushland Biodiversity Survey (of which western Sydney is a component) was to undertake scientific 

research, surveying and monitoring in order to increase understanding of regional biodiversity and 

ecological systems for the purpose of conservation. The survey includes the Parramatta Local 

Government Area and the bushland in the Plan of Management area. Findings of the survey included 

identification of the main threats to the biodiversity of western Sydney. These threats were loss, 

degradation and fragmentation of habitat, introduced species, pollution, fire and global climate change. 




PAGE 28 

The out-put of the survey included recommendations for conservation relevant to the community land 

subject to this Plan of Management. 

3.2.7 SHARING SYDNEY HARBOUR – REGIONAL ACTION PLAN, 2000 

Sharing Sydney Harbour – Regional Action Plan is a NSW Government vision and action plan for the 

harbour. The Plan of Management area lies within the Sydney Harbour catchment. The Sharing Sydney 

Harbour – Regional Action Plan identifies ten priority projects within the Sydney Harbour catchment. One 

of the priority projects is Bushland and Conservation. This project includes undertaking an audit of past 

bushland projects and identifying priorities across the catchment to develop a coordinated program with 

lasting improvements. The bushland restoration program undertaken in Galaringi Reserve and Cox Park 

will be audited by the relevant State Government department under the Sharing Sydney Harbour – 

Regional Action Plan. 

3.2.8 MID PARRAMATTA (NORTH) RIVER STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN, 1999 

The Mid Parramatta (North) River Stormwater Management Plan 1999 was developed to address a 

number of issues relating to stormwater in a coordinated catchment-wide approach. 

The Plan of Management area lies within the mid Parramatta (North) River catchment. The Plan of 

Management considers the catchment objectives and actions listed in the stormwater management plan. 

Objectives of the stormwater management plan include protection of ecosystems and their flora and 

fauna, control of exotic plants and supporting community involvement in bush regeneration. The Plan of 

Management objectives and actions are consistent with the stormwater plan’s objectives. 

3.2.9 PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL PLAN OF MANAGEMENT PONDS SUBIACO WATERCOURSE 

AND BUSHLAND RESERVES,1997 

The objectives and actions contained within this Plan of Management are consistent with those found in 

the Plan of Management for Ponds Subiaco Watercourse and Bushland Reserves. Galaringi Reserve, 

Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park lie at the top of the Ponds and Subiaco 

Creek catchment and form the upper linkage of the open space chain following the watercourse. 

Integration of the Plan of Management area into the wider open space system is facilitated through 

consistency between these plans of management. 

3.2.10 PARRAMATTA CITY COUNCIL GENERIC PLANS OF MANAGEMENT, 1996 

See Section 1.2 




PAGE 29 

4 THE COMMUNITY 

4.1 COMMUNITY RESEARCH 

Preparation of the Plan of Management involved a comprehensive community consultation program. 

Community Research was undertaken to allow local residents, members of interest groups, stakeholders 

and Councillors to participate in the preparation of the plan. The wider community were also approached 

in order to understand their values and behaviour with respect to local parks and the Plan of Management 

area in particular. 

Community Research was undertaken in a style that reflects market research focus groups. Members of 

the general community were recruited at random and consulted in groups according to their age and use 

patterns of the parks. Specifically, the Community Research program was undertaken to achieve the 

following objectives: 

• to ascertain the values and roles that the community attributes to Galaringi Reserve and 

associated open spaces 

• to understand the characteristics of the park users 

• to understand types and patterns of community use 

• to provide an opportunity for members of the wider community to offer suggestions regarding the 

planning and future management of the Plan of Management area 

4.2 COMMUNITY RESEARCH STUDY DESIGN 

Qualitative research was undertaken, given the exploratory nature of the objectives of the research. 

Seven qualitative groups of 1 ½ hours each, comprising 8-10 people were held in Dundas between May 4 

and May 11, 1998. Respondents were all local residents and were recruited at random through common 

Market Research recruitment procedures. 

The Community Research program involved focus group discussions with the following groups: 

1 Teenagers who use a park within the Plan of Management area regularly 

2 Teenagers who live within walking distance of the parks but do not use them 

3 Adults who use a park within the Plan of Management area regularly 

4 Adults who live within walking distance of the parks but do not use them 

5 Adults who are regular users of Cox Park Bowling Club 

6/7 Senior primary school students from Carlingford West Public School who have used a park within 

the Plan of Management area recently 




PAGE 30 

CommunityFocus Groups 




PAGE 31 

4.3 COMMUNITY PROFILE 

It is essential to consider the profile of the local community in order to understand its motivations and 

values regarding open space. For the purpose of this research, the local community to the Plan of 

Management area has been defined as those people who live within walking distance of the parks. The 

Council area within which they live was not a relevant factor in defining the local community. 

According to 1996 Census data, the local community is highlighted by families or older residents living in 

low density housing. 

Population density is mostly less that 2,500 people per square km. A small area south-west of the site is 

populated at 4,000 to 7,500 per square km. Home units below Marsden Road and Pennant Hills Road 

also contribute to the relatively higher population density. This is relatively low when compared to some 

parts of the inner and eastern suburbs of Sydney, in which population density reaches over 13,500 

people per square km. 

Carlingford is considered to have a dynamic local demographic community, which should be considered 

when planning for the long term future of Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric 

Mobbs Memorial Park. Demographic trends suggest that within about 10 years the local community will 

comprise predominantly teenagers and young families. Future planning, therefore, needs to consider 

existing and future local communities and consequently provide recreational opportunities for users of all 

ages. 

4.4 USER PATTERNS 

Findings of the Community Research suggest that members of the local community mostly use Galaringi 

Reserve and Dandarbong Reserve as an access route to Carlingford Court shops. Galaringi is perceived 

by the community as uninviting and even out of bounds. The older and younger members of the 

community appreciate the natural bushland asset within Galaringi Reserve but the steepness of the site 

and lack of access makes it difficult for them to comfortably walk within it. 

Many teenagers who live locally do not use Galaringi at all and feel that the only incentive to do so in the 

future would be if the area offered some active recreational activities for them. They currently use other 

parks and reserves that offer such activities, including skateboard bowls and areas to socialise with 

friends. Cox Park Oval is used regularly by various sporting groups. Regular users of this Park do not 

use Galaringi Reserve for the same reasons as the rest of the community, but also because they feel that 

crossing Evans Road is unsafe. 

4.5 RECREATION VALUES 

The local community values open space highly and feels privileged to be provided with so much open 

space. They value local open space as an important component of their good quality of life and believe it 

is important to preserve natural bushland that is situated in the geographical centre of Sydney. 

The community, however, feels that the ubiquitous green space in their local area has not been utilised 

for recreation. Local residents value Galaringi Reserve as an essential part of this local open space 

network. 




PAGE 32 

Teenagers feel there are few recreational opportunities for them and that Galaringi Reserve is an open 

space that could be better planned to provide for their needs. Primary school children value local open 

space highly, particularly the natural bushland areas. These children understand the need to preserve 

natural environments and feel that it is important to do so in any future planning for the area. 

The core values displayed in Table 1 have been identified through Community Research as important for 

the future management of the Park. 

TABLE 1: C ORE VALUES IDENTIFIED THROUGH COMMUNITY RESEARCH 

CORE VALUE 

EXPLANATION 

Natural bushland 

Natural bushland in the park is an important asset and should be maintained 

and utilised as a natural and recreational resource 

Access to local shops 

The park provides off-street pedestrian access to Carlingford shops from 

houses near Dandarbong Reserve through Galaringi Reserve 

Local open space 

Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial 

Park play important roles in providing local open space for the whole 

community 

Views 

Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and surrounding areas of the Northern section of 

the Plan of Management area provides panoramic views of Parramatta and the 

Olympic stadium 

Sportsground 

Cox Park provides convenient local sporting facilities for group sports on Cox 

Oval 

Integrated open space 

system 

Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial 

Park form a contiguous open space that also integrate into the wider open 

space system 

It should be noted that the community research program did not identify cultural heritage as a core value 

of the Plan of Management area. This is most likely attributed to the little information publicly available on 

the areas cultural heritage significance. As such, the general community is largely unaware of the cultural 

features of the parks and reserves. 

Although cultural heritage was not identified as a core value in the community research, it has the 

potential to be a core value subject to further investigation and assessment. Consequently, it has been 

included as a separate value with associated objectives and actions in Section 6.0 of this plan of 

management (see section 6.2.7). 




PAGE 33 

5 MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS 

5.1 COMMUNITY LAND CATEGORISATION 

The Local Government Act 1993 requires that community land be identified according to one or more of 

the categories listed in the Act (see Sections 3.1.1 and 3.1.2). Land categorisation (shown in Table 2 and 

Figure 6) within the Plan of Management area is as follows: 

TABLE 2: LAND CATEGORISATION 

AREA 

Galaringi Reserve 

Cox Park Sportsground 

Cox Park bushland area 

Carlingford Bowling and Recreation Club 

Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 

Dandarbong Reserve 

CATEGORY 

Natural Area - Bushland 

Sportsground 

Natural Area - Bushland 

General Community Use 



Where possible, the land categories correspond to the Cadastral boundaries as seen in Figure 7. 

However, it has not been possible to fully align land use and category boundaries. As such, parks within 

the Plan of Management area are mostly identified along functional lines. 

1 Natural Area (bushland) 

2 Sportsground 

3 General Community Use 

Figure 6 Community Land Categories 




PAGE 34 

Figure 7 Cadastral Boundaries 

5.2 MANAGEMENT ISSUES 

The following have been identified as the main concerns or issues of attention for management within the 

Plan of Management area. The issues were derived from understanding the values held by the users of 

the parks through community research, discussions with Council staff and interest groups, and findings 

from on-site observations. The main issues are: 


• Lack of recreational facilities for families. 

• Rubbish dumping – Garden waste and other materials are commonly dumped near the edge of 

the reserve. 

• Weeds - Lantana, privet and other noxious and environmental weeds are prolific on site. 

• Slope - There are areas of steep slopes on site where pedestrian access may be difficult and 

erosion occurs. 

• Erosion - Some isolated areas of sloping grasslands on steep sections of slope show signs of soil 

creep. 

• Bushland management - Although some bush restoration initiatives have been undertaken, 

expansion of the bush restoration program is required. 

• Pedestrian Access - Access within and to the site needs to be developed to link to the wider local 

open space network. Parts of the Plan of Management area are difficult for some people to 

access due to the steepness of slopes and uneven ground surfaces. 

• Access to infrastructure - Access for maintenance vehicles will be required. 

• Connection to Cox Park - Pedestrian access across Evans Road needs to be improved to safely 

link Galaringi Reserve with Cox Park. 




PAGE 35 

• Isolation from wider open space system - Galaringi currently does not visually relate to the wider 

local open space network although it functions within the Ponds Subiaco Creek system. 

• Signage - The Reserve looks unmanaged and lacking ownership due to absence of Reserve 

name signs, interpretive and directional signs. 

• Path fragmentation and incompletion - Existing pathways do not link with others to form useful 

pedestrian routes. 

• Public perception - The public perceives Galaringi Reserve to be uninviting and unsafe. 

• Trail bikes - Trail bikes through the site have contributed to soil erosion in some areas. 

• Antisocial behavior - Anecdotal evidence suggests that night time parties occur in Galaringi 

Reserve creating noise and litter. 

• Soil compaction and vegetation disturbance - Soil compaction occurs in some areas of the site, 

particularly where trail bikes have been. Previous agricultural and mowing activities have also 

resulted in soil compaction and changes in vegetation. The installation and upgrading of 

electricity and water infrastructure has caused further site disturbance. 

• Past management practices - The Sydney Water pipeline constructed in 1991 across the top of 

the eastern slope of Galaringi Reserve has accumulated prolific weeds including camphor laurel, 

privet and lantana. Acacia seeded by Sydney Water have dominated some areas. 

• Transmission lines - Visually prominent transmission line towers and poles occur within Galaringi 

Reserve. 

• Safety - Safety around ponds needs to be considered in future development of Galaringi 

Reserve. 

• Bushfire hazard - Bushfires may threaten property and significant vegetation. 

• Bushland within Galaringi Reserve receives diffuse run off from Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and 

surrounding residential areas, and due to an over flow from the four ponds. The impacts resulting 

from drainage in the reserve is evident through the occurrence of weed growth, and soil erosion 

in areas affected by run off. 


• Drainage - Bushland in Cox Park receives runoff from Cox Park Oval and Evans Road, which is 

promoting weed growth. 

• Stability of Cox Park Oval – The oval is prone to instability due to past land use as a landfill site. 

• Lack of shade - There is a lack of shade around the Oval for sports spectators. 

• Weeds - Lantana, privet and other noxious and environmental weeds are prolific on site. 

• Car parking capacity – Further car parking is required to cater for use of the Park during sporting 

events. Currently cars are parking on Evans Road during sporting events due to insufficient 

capacity in the existing car park. 

• Bushfire hazard – Bushfires may threaten property and significant vegetation. 




PAGE 36 

• The Carlingford Sports Bowling and Recreation Club is a community leisure facility operating 

under a lease agreement with Parramatta City Council. The Club offers a number of leisure 

opportunities to its members. Operation of the Club needs to occur in such a way as to not 

compromise the adjacent activities in Cox Park. 


• Views - Views from the lookout were being blocked as trees mature. 

• Recognition of the history associated with Eric Mobbs (former Mayor). 

• Rubbish dumping. 

• The look out area requires upgrading of built facilities and landscaping. 


• Maintenance - The maintenance and management for this area requires investigation with 

respect to retaining pedestrian access and considering overhead transmission lines. 

• Transmission lines – Transmission lines require periodic maintenance, therefore vehicle access 

needs to be addressed. 

• Drainage - Due to topography of the area runoff appears to drain onto residential property. 

• Shape of Reserve – Due to the narrowness of the reserve and its proximity to residential areas, 

has very limited potential uses. 




PAGE 

37 

6 MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK AND ACTIONS 

Sections 6 to 8 describe: 

 

 

 

 

Management objectives for the parks and reserves in the Plan of Management area, including both 

the objectives derived from community research and the Core Objectives listed in Section 36 of the 

Local Government Act 1993; 

Actions that Council will undertake to meet the objectives; 

Performance targets for each action; 

The means by which Council will assess its performance. 

The Management Action tables in Section 6.2, the Bushland Restoration Program seen in Section 7, and 

the Masterplan and Masterplan Summary seen in Section 8 collectively outline the actions that Council 

will undertake in the parks and reserves of the Plan of Management area. 

6.1 OBJECTIVES 

The Local Government Act 1993 lists Core Objectives for each category of community land. The Core 

Objectives for each relevant category are listed below. The numbers listed against each Core Objective 

are referred to in the Management Action Tables in Section 6.2. 

6.1.1 NATURAL AREA - BUSHLAND (COX PARK BUSHLAND, GALARINGI RESERVE) 

1. To conserve biodiversity and maintain ecosystem function in respect of the land, or the 

feature or habitat in respect of which the land is categorised as a natural area. 

2. To maintain the land, or that feature or habitat, in its natural state and setting. 

3. To provide for the restoration and regeneration of the land. 

4. To provide for community use of and access to the land in such a manner as will minimise 

and mitigate any disturbance caused by human intrusion. 

5. To assist in and facilitate the implementation of any provisions restricting the use and 

management of the land that are set out in a recovery plan or threat abatement plan 

prepared under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 or the Fisheries 

Management Act 1994. 

6. To ensure the ongoing ecological viability of the land by protecting the ecological biodiversity 

and habitat values of the land, the flora and fauna (including invertebrates, fungi and microorganisms) 

of the land and other ecological values of the land. 

7. To protect the aesthetic, heritage, recreational, educational and scientific values of the land. 

8. To promote the management of the land in a manner that protects and enhances the values 

and quality of the land and facilitates public enjoyment of the land, and to implement 

measures directed to minimising or mitigating any disturbance caused by human intrusion. 

9. To restore degraded bushland. 




PAGE 

38 

10. To protect existing landforms such as natural drainage lines, watercourses and foreshores. 

11. To retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration that will enable the existing plant 

and animal communities to survive in the long term. 

12. To protect bushland as a natural stabiliser of the soil surface. 

6.1.2 SPORTSGROUND (COX PARK SPORTSGROUND) 

13. To encourage, promote and facilitate recreational pursuits in the community involving 

organised and informal sporting activities and games. 

14. To ensure that such activities are managed having regard to any adverse impact on nearby 

residence. 

6.1.3 GENERAL COMMUNITY USE (ERIC MOBBS MEMORIAL PARK, CARLINGFORD BOWLING 

SPORTS AND RECREATION CLUB, AND DANDARBONG RESERVE) 

15. To promote, encourage and provide for the use of the land, and to provide facilities on 

the land, to meet the current and future needs of the local community and of the wider 

public: 

- in relation to public recreation and the physical, cultural, social and intellectual welfare 

or development of individual members of the public, and 

- in relation to purposes for which a lease, licence, or other estate may be granted in 

respect of the land (other than the provision of public utilities and works associated 

with or ancillary to public utilities). 

6.2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS 

The management of Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 

will be based on the values identified through Community Research, and environmental and heritage 

values that were identified in previous studies and on site investigations. This value based management 

framework is presented in a series of tables on the following pages. 

One or more objectives (in addition to the core statutory objectives listed in Section 6.1) have been 

identified for each value. To achieve each objective a number of specific actions are to be undertaken. 

Responsibility is attached to each action, along with the priority and a measure by which performance can 

be assessed. 

KEY TO PRIORITY ABBREVIATIONS 

H 

M 

L 

High (within 3 years of adoption of Plan of Management) 

Medium (3-5 years) 

Low (5-10 years) 




PAGE 39 

6.2.1 VALUE - NATURAL BUSHLAND 

Natural bushland on the site is an important asset to the 

community and should be maintained and utilised as a 

natural and recreational resource. 

COMMUNITY QUOTES 

“That really is my idea of a totally natural park” 

“There should be no tourism and it should be back to 

bushland” 

“I like the natural woodland” 

“Obviously it’s a natural habitat and there’s obviously 

wildlife there” 




PAGE 40 

VALUE – NATURAL BUSHLAND 

Section 36 - Local 

Government Act 

OBJECTIV 

1993 

ES Core Objective 

(see Section 6.1) 

To restore 

bushland 

To protect 

native fauna 

To protect 

and 

enhance the 

wider 

bushland 

corridor 

To protect 

bushland 

1,3,5,6,7,9 

3,4 

1,3,6,11 

11 

8,9 

4,8 

2,9,10,12 

ACTIONS 

Develop and 

undertake a 

bushland restoration 

strategy for Cox 

Park bushland and 

Galaringi Reserve. 

Encourage and 

support community 

involvement in 

bushland restoration 

activities in Cox Park 

and Galaringi 

Reserve under 

Council’s Volunteer 

Bushcare Program 

Identify fauna 

presence in reserves 

and put measures in 

place to reduce nonnative 

animal 

impacts and habitat 

modification 

impacts. 

Integrate with other 

bush regeneration 

activities in Ponds 

Subiaco 

Watercourse and 

Bushland Reserves 

Control drainage 

from Cox Park Oval 

into adjacent 

bushland 

Clearly delineate 

bushland areas, 

through appropriate 

signage, landscape 

RESPONSIBI 

LITY 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

PRIORI 

TY 

H 

Ongoing 

H 

Ongoing 

H 

Ongoing 

H 

Ongoing 

M 

H 

M 

PERFORMANCE TARGET 

Increased areas in Cox Park and Galaringi 

Reserve undergoing active bushland restoration to 

the point where ongoing, low level maintenance is 

required. Bushland restoration practices are 

consistent with best practice methods for 

endangered ecological communities. Biodiversity 

is protected and enhanced. 

Community Bushcare volunteers continue to be 

active in Cox Park and Galaringi Reserve, 

undertaking their activities in line with best practice 

methods for endangered ecological communities. 

Native fauna levels and their habitat requirements 

known. Impacts of non-native animals minimised. 

Bushland restoration projects in Galaringi Reserve 

and Cox Park form part of a wider program, 

coordinated with Ponds Subiaco Catchment 

restoration program. 

Impacts on bushland of drainage from developed 

areas of Cox Park controlled and minimised. 

Pedestrians utilise paths and tracks and trampling 

in bushland areas minimised. 

Bushland areas are as unfragmented as possible 

PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT 

Ongoing management of bush regeneration 

contractors/staff Annual reporting of the area of 

bushland undergoing restoration and success of 

methods used including resulting biodiversity changes. 

Ongoing support of Bushcare volunteers and annual 

reporting on volunteers’ issues and outcomes. 

Regular fauna surveys to determine native fauna 

abundance and impacts. 

Annual site assessments , and five yearly reporting of 

catchment wide bushland restoration program 

outcomes. 

Measure resulting changes in bushland health from 

baseline. 

Visitors can clearly delineate between bushland and 

open recreation areas as measured by ongoing site 

inspections. 

Annual site assessments, and five yearly reporting 




PAGE 41 




OBJECTIV 

ES 

1993 

Core Objective 


ACTIONS 

and edge treatments 

4,7,8 

7,9,11 

2 

Ensure maximum 

continuity with 

downstream 

bushland areas and 

by using best 

practice catchment 

management 

principles 

Discourage dumping 

of garden waste and 

general refuse 

RESPONSIBI 

LITY 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Outcomes 

PRIORI 

TY 

M 

Ongoing 

M 

Ongoing 


within the constraints imposed by service 

infrastructure and the requirements for public 

safety and access. 

Dumping of refuse is negligible. 

Council parks maintenance staff undertake their 

activities in a manner which does not negatively 

impact on bushland. 


including aerial photography and mapping showing 

connectivity levels of bushland. 

Ongoing observation of the amount of dumping taking 

place in the reserves. 

Reduction in the impact of Parks staff practices on 

bushland, and number of staff trained in bushland 

management principles. 

1,3,6,8,9 

Educate Council 

parks maintenance 

staff on bushland 

values, impacts and 

preservation 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

M 

Ongoing 

Zoning of Galaringi Reserve reflects the land use 

and categories 

LEP amended 

To utilise 

the natural 

bushland as 

a 

recreational 

resource 

To utilise 

the natural 

bushland as 

an 

educational 

resource 

4,7,8 

4,7,8 

4, 7, 8 

Check zoning of 

land parcels in 


and alter if required 

Implement program 

of noxious and 

invasive weed 

control in 

surrounding open 

space areas. Coordinate 

control with 

private land holders 

Establish links 

between Cox Park 

bushland and 

Galaringi bushland 

by high-lighting 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

M 

H 

M 

Noxious weeds in nearby public and private 

property controlled in line with Council’s Noxious 

Weeds Strategy. 

The Ponds Walk is created and maintained and 

used by the community. 

The Ponds Walk is created and maintained and 

used by the local community. Other tracks in 

bushland areas of Cox Park and Galaringi Reserve 

Noxious weed audits undertaken on nearby public and 

private property in line with Council’s Noxious Weeds 

Strategy 

Maintenance audits and pedestrian usage audits of 

The Ponds Walk 

Maintenance audits and pedestrian usage audits of 

The Ponds Walk 




PAGE 42 




OBJECTIV 

ES 

1993 

Core Objective 


ACTIONS 

entrances with 

4,7,8 

signage and fencing 

RESPONSIBI 

LITY 

Recreation 

Unit 

PRIORI 

TY 

H-M 


are created and maintained. 


1,3,6,11 

Provide definitive 

minimal impact 

tracks through 

bushland areas that 

are appropriate for 

levels of pedestrian 

usage 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Unit 

Ongoing 

Interpretive signs installed to educate and inform 

the public. Signs are referred to by the public. 

Regular inspections of signage for vandalism 

undertaken. 

To manage 

bushland to 

conserve 

biodiversity 

whilst 

minimising 

bushfire risk 

to adjacent 

properties. 

Provide 

interpretative 

signage in bushland 

areas indicating 

vegetation 

transitions and bush 

regeneration 

activities. Promote 

the Ponds Walk 

Encourage visitation 

to bushland areas of 

school groups by 

retaining existing 

outdoor classrooms 

and promoting The 

Ponds Walk 

Environment 

& Health Unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Unit 

H 

Local schools regularly utilise The Ponds Walk and 

Galaringi Reserve and Cox Park for recreation and 

interpretation activities. 

Fire breaks and fuel reduced zones are maintained 

to minimise risk to property from bushfire. 

Usage of these reserves by schools groups recorded 

by Council where possible. Council will appropriately 

maintain outdoor classrooms and surrounding areas. 

Council will undertake on-site inspections to check that 

fire breaks and fuel reduced zones are maintained. 

Maintain existing fire 

breaks and fuel 

reduced zones 

adjacent to 

boundaries of 

properties. 




PAGE 

43 

6.2.2 VALUE – ACCESS TO LOCAL SHOPS 

The site provides off-street pedestrian access to Carlingford 

Court shops from houses near Cox Park and Dandarbong 

Reserve. 


“I walked through the reserve to the shops but I got lost and 

had to go through someone’s unit and eventually had to get 

back to the road...” 

“On the weekends and afternoons we walk up to Carlingford 

on the street and come back through the reserve...” 

“There’s that mown area under the power lines where you 

can go to a couple of other streets...” 




PAGE 44 

VALUE – ACCESS TO LOCAL SHOPS 

OBJECTIV 

ES 

To maintain 

the parks as 

convenient 

access to 

Carlingford 

shops and 

public 

transport 

Section 36 Local 


1993 

Core Objectives (see 

Section 6.1) 

4, 8, 11 

4, 8, 11, 15 

4, 8 

ACTIONS 

Complete pathway 

linkages for 

pedestrian access 

through Galaringi 

Reserve 

Encourage access 

to Carlingford shops 

through appropriate 

directional signage 

Maintain pedestrian 

paths and tracks to 

an appropriate 

safety standard 

RESPONSIBI 

LITY 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Open Space 

& Recreation 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health 

PRIORI 

TY 

M 

M 

Ongoing 


To ensure that principal access paths link up 

and are of an appropriate quality consistent 

with Council’s Urban Design Guidelines. 

To ensure that all sign posting is clear and 

accurately provides directional information for 

the community. Signage to be consistent with 

Council’s Signage Masterplan. 

The paths are maintained and used by the 

community. 


Pedestrian usage audits of the main access track through 

Galaringi Reserve. 

Audits of people utilising the site for access and regular 

inspections to ensure signs remain intact. 

Maintenance audits and pedestrian usage audits of the 

paths. 

4,8 Ensure safe 

crossing of Evans 

Road for 

pedestrians utilising 

main access path in 


through fencing, 

signage and 

appropriate 

placement of 

entrances 

Open Space & 

Recreation / 

Infrastructure 

H 

Pedestrians safely cross Evans Road when 

using “The Ponds Walk”. 

Pedestrian usage audits and feedback from users of this 

section of “The Ponds Walk”. 

4,8 Potential for footpath 

along Cox Park side 

of Evans Road 

Infrastructure L Pending completion of Parramatta-Chatswood 

Rail Link, pathway provided for safe pedestrian 

access along Evans Road. 

Usage audits of footpath and feedback from pedestrians. 

GALARINGI, COX PARK, DANDARBONG RESERVE SEPTEMBER 2002 DRAFT PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 



PAGE 

45 

6.2.3 VALUE - LOCAL OPEN SPACE 

The parks in the Plan of Management area are an 

important resource for the local community. Local 

residents to the plan of management area value 

open space as an important component of their 

quality of life and feel that it should be retained and 

utilised wherever possible. 


“Taking grandchildren out to play is important” 

“I find there aren’t many parks for children” 




PAGE 46 

VALUE - LOCAL OPEN SPACE 

OBJECTIVES 

*To provide 

facilities to allow the 

local community to 

use the parks in the 

Plan of 

Management area 

regularly 



1993 

ACTIONS 

Core Objectives 


4, 8 Limit the type of 

activities in Galaringi to 

passive recreation 

RESPONSIBI 

LITY 

Open Space 

& Recreation 

Environment & 

Health 

PRIORITY PERFORMANCE TARGET PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT 

On-going 

Activities catered for are consistent with the 

objectives for the natural area-bushland category. 

On-going site inspections to ensure that the 

community’s activities do not impact on 

Galaringi Reserve’s natural values. 

15 Continue to provide 

recreational facilities at 

Eric Mobbs Memorial 

Park such as park 

furniture; and children’s 

playground and park 

furniture in Cox Park 

Open Space 

& Recreation 

On-going 

Ensure that recreational facilities are of a standard 

consistent with the quality used in other Council 

parks and reserves, Council’s urban design 

guidelines and relevant Australian Standards for 

playgrounds. 

On-going inspections of park furniture and 

playgrounds to ensure facilities are 

maintained. 

15 Highlight entry to 

Dandarbong Reserve 

through signage & edge 

treatment and park 

furniture 

Open Space 

& Recreation 

Environment & 

Health 

M 

Ensure that park furniture is of a standard 

consistent with the quality in other parks and 

reserves and Council’s Urban Design Guidelines. 

On-site inspection to ensure placement and 

quality is appropriate. 

4,8 Ensure user safety 

around ponds and water 

bodies through 

appropriate planting 

Environment & 

Health 

H 

To ensure that vegetation is installed on pond 

banks to limit access and address public safety. 

On-site inspection to check public activity 

around ponds. 

To provide open 

space for the local 

community to use 

for informed play 

15 Maintain mown open 

space areas in 

Dandarbong Reserve, 

Cox Park & Eric Mobbs 

Memorial Park 

Open Space 

& Recreation 

On-going 

Mown open space is maintained such that informal 

planning can occur year around. 

On-going inspections of grass length and 

surface safety. 

*ALSO, SEE 6.2.1 – NATURAL BUSHLAND VALUES 




PAGE 

47 

6.2.4 VALUE - VIEWS 

Eric Mobbs Memorial Park and surrounding areas of 

the Northern section of the Plan of Management area 

provides panoramic views of Parramatta, the Olympic 

Stadium, and as far south as Bowral. This lookout is 

an important asset of the Plan of Management area to 

the local community and encourages regional visitors 

to the site. 


“You get a good view of Homebush and everything from 

there” 

“That’s what I like to see, the treetops” 

“It has an uninterrupted view to Homebush, there’s nothing 

in front of it at all...” 




PAGE 48 

VALUE - VIEWS 

OBJECTIVES 

To update and 

maintain Eric 

Mobbs 

Memorial Park 

as a lookout 



1993 



15 

10, 12, 15 

ACTIONS 

Update the 20 year old lookout 

to create a more modern and 

aesthetic look out and to better 

address Galaringi Reserve 

Selectively remove senescing 

trees immediately below the 

lookout that impinges on 

panoramic views. Replace with 

low indigenous vegetation that 

requires minimal maintenance 

RESPONSIBILI 

TY 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health 


M 

H 

On-going 

The dated lookout will be modernised but will 

maintain its current functionality. Design will 

be consistent with Council’s Urban Design 

Guidelines. 

Framed views from Homebush Bay to 

Parramatta maintained. 

Site inspections to check levels of usage and 

community feedback. 

Visit viewing point quarterly to ensure views 

are maintained. 

Retain the plaque and park sign 

at Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 

To acknowledge 

and retain the 

historical 

significance of 

Eric Mobbs 

Memorial Park 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

On-going 

Existing plaque and park sign maintained. 

Regular site inspections to ensure sign and 

plaque are repaired if vandalised. 

To respect 

views of 

adjacent 

residents 

15 Limit planting near residences to 

lower growing indigenous 

species in Galaringi Reserve 

15 Maintain existing views of Cox 

Park for residents in Coleman 

Avenue by installing low growing 

indigenous plant on the 

sportsground embankment 

Environment & 

Health 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health 

On-going 

L 

Framed views maintained for residents in 

adjoining units wherever possible. 

Views of the sportsground from adjacent 

residents are maintained. 

Feedback from residents overlooking the 

reserve. 

Feedback from residents overlooking the 

reserve 




PAGE 

49 

6.2.5 VALUE - SPORTS FACILITIES 

Cox Park provides an important sporting facility 

for group sports at Cox Oval. Teenagers who 

use the Oval regularly value the area highly as 

a sporting venue because of its convenience to 

home and its role in their weekly routine. 


“I play football at Cox Park” 

“They need to resurface the Oval” 

“I think there is a lack of space for sporting facilities” 




PAGE 50 

VALUE - SPORTS FACILITIES 

OBJECTIVES 

To maintain and 

upgrade the 

sporting 

facilities within 

Cox Park 

Section 36 - 

Local 


1993 



13 Provide shade trees 

for spectators of 

sporting events at 

Cox Park oval 

ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY PRIORITY PERFORMANCE TARGET PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

M 

Adequate shade is provided through planting 

trees along the eastern and northern edge of 

sports field. 

Spectators observed utilising shade. 

13 Improve amenities 

building with awning 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

L 

Awning is provided to shelter players and 

spectators. 

Spectators and players observed utilising area under 

awning for shade/protection from rain. 

13 Maintain high quality 

playing surface on 

the sportsground 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

On-going 

Rugby Union & Cricket Clubs provided with 

a safe playing surface. 

Number of injuries or incidents relating to surface 

conditions recorded, feedback from Sportsground 

users. 

Provide 

sufficient 

parking for 

users of Cox 

Park 

13 Provide safe 

additional car 

parking on Evans 

Road 

Infrastructure/ 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

M 

Creation of a new car park on the western 

side of Evans Road. Location to be 

determined during design for Evans Road 

upgrade works 

Users of Cox Park observed using the new carpark. 

Maintain and 

upgrade the 

Bowling Club 

facilities 

NOTE: 

15 Council to maintain 

communication with 

leaseholder of 

Bowling Club 

Leaseholder/ 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

On-going 

Bowling Club continues to be an asset 

utilised by the community. 

Bowling Club continues to provide high standard 

facilities as assessed by monitoring of the tenants 

activities in accordance with the terms and conditions 

of the lease 

This Plan of Management expressly authorises the continuing occupation and use of part Lot1566 DP32105 and part Lot 106 DP752028 for the 

purposes of a bowling sports and recreation club in accordance with the lease agreement between Parramatta City Council and Carlingford Bowling 

Sports and Recreation Club dated 7 December 1998. 




PAGE 51 

6.2.6 VALUE - INTEGRATED OPEN SPACE 

SYSTEM 

The Parks are valued as being part of the 

wider open space system of Carlingford and 

Dundas. The connection of parks by 

vegetation corridors and tree-lined streets 

contributes to the character of the wider 

open space system. 


“ ... I think there should be more parks as 

part and parcel of the greening of the area” 

“Dundas was the closest thing to the 

country that you could have in the city” 




PAGE 52 

VALUE - INTEGRATED OPEN SPACE SYSTEM 



OBJECTIVES 

1993 

ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY PRIORITY PERFORMANCE TARGET PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT 



To link the 

parks & 

reserves with 

the wider open 

space system 

of Carlingford & 

Dundas 

4, 8, 15 As outlined in 6.2.1 to 

6.2.5, by installing 

directional and 

interpretive signage, 

improving pedestrian 

access and safety 

within and between 

parks, highlighting 

entrances to reserves 

and ensuring 

landscaping elements 

are consistent. Create 

“The Ponds Walk” 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

H to L Facilities installed meet Council’s 

requirements under the Urban Design 

Guidelines. 

Regular inspections of installed facilities to ensure they 

are maintained for public safety and pleasure. 




PAGE 53 

6.2.7 VALUE – CULTURAL HERITAGE 

The parks and reserves contain evidence of past 

land uses, and provide an insight into Aboriginal 

and European cultural heritage. 


“Galaringi has its own piece of history – being the virtually intact land grant made to Michael 

Fitzgerald in April 1794” 

“The word Galaringi is of Aboriginal origin and in use at the time of first settlement. It means ‘ours or 

“”belonging to us”” 




PAGE 54 

VALUE – CULTURAL HERITAGE 

OBJECTIVES 

To identify 

areas of 

heritage 

significance 

To protect 

and maintain 

Heritage sites 

To utilise 

heritage as an 

educational 

resource 



1993 

ACTIONS 



7 * Undertake surveys of 

the Plan of 

Management area to 

identify Aboriginal and 

European heritage 

sites 

7, 8 

Develop and 

implement a 

management strategy 

to balance ecological 

restoration with the 

protection and 

maintenance of 

heritage sites 

7, 8 

Encourage and 

support community 

participation in the 

protection and 

maintenance of 

heritage sites 

7 Provide interpretive 

signage within the 

parks and reserves 

highlighting significant 

heritage sites and their 

importance 

RESPONSIBILI 

TY 

Environment & 

Health unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 

Environment & 

Health unit 

Open Space & 

Recreation 


H 

H 

M 

H – M 

On -going 

Obtain an accurate record of all sites 

and attributes of importance to 

Aboriginal and European heritage 

Heritage sites are located and measures 

put in place to minimise impacts on 

heritage values 

Community is actively involved in the 

maintenance and protection of heritage 

values 

Interpretive signage is installed to 

educate and inform the public of the 

cultural significance of the parks and 

reserves 

Encourage visitation to the area by the 

community and school groups 

All significant heritage sites within the Plan of Management 

area are determined, and their location mapped and 

recorded 

All heritage sites are mapped, and impacts to heritage 

items are reduced as observed by on-site inspection 

Bushcare groups and community volunteers working within 

the Plan of Management area are aware of heritage items, 

and assist with their maintenance and protection as 

observed by Bushland Management Staff 

Regular inspections of signage for vandalism are 

undertaken 

Usage of the reserves by community and school groups 

for interpretive activities recorded where possible 

* At the time of writing, Parramatta City Council was undertaking an Aboriginal Heritage Study for the whole LGA. The initial findings of this Study indicate that there 

are no sites of Aboriginal significance in the plan of management area that are registered by NPWS. One of the outcomes of the Aboriginal Heritage Study will be to 

identify areas where there is a reasonable likelihood that sites may exist. On completion of the Aboriginal Heritage Study, the Plan of Management will be reviewed 

and modified if necessary in order to incorporate any relevant recommendations made by the Study. 




PAGE 55 

6.3 COMPLEMENTARY USES AND INTERESTS 

This Plan of Management expressly authorises Council to consider and to approve or to refuse, as it 

deems appropriate, the granting of any lease, licence, easement, or other estate or interest in the 

community land subject to this Plan of Management, which would not compromise the nature of the land 

as a community asset, and pursuant to Section 45-47C of the Local Government Act 1993. 

6.4 ALLOCATION OF INCOME 

The net income received by Council from the granting and operation of any lease, licence, easement or 

other estate or interest in the land subject to this Plan of Management will be expended upon: 

(i) 

(ii) 

(iii) 

the capital improvement of the land subject to this Plan; 

acquisition of appropriate land to be added to the land subject to this Plan; or 

both (i) and (ii). 




PAGE 56 

7 BUSHLAND RESTORATION PROGRAM 

The bushland values associated with the Plan of Management area require a high management priority 

for restoration activities. The general objectives for bushland restoration are included in the Section 

6.1.1, however it was considered necessary to identify a specific ten-year program in this Plan of 

Management. This is outlined in Table 9 with the locations of zones shown in Figure 8. The following 

sections 7.1 and 7.2 have been included to indicate the level of work that has previously occurred in the 

various zones. These sections also highlight the fact that restoration works have been ongoing prior to 

the implementation of this Plan of Management, and will continue past the expiration of the Plan of 

Management. 

All bushland restoration activities are and will continue to be performed in accordance with any existing or 

future recovery plans for the Endangered Ecological Communities, or vulnerable or endangered species 

existing on these reserves as listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, or the 

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. 

On-ground works will be performed to best practice principles set out in National Trust Handbook 2000, 

and Bringing Back the Bush to Western Sydney – Best Practice Guidelines (1999) Debbie Little. 

Bushland restoration activities include the, staged removal of noxious and environmental weed species 

using techniques endorsed by the Australian Association of Bush Regenerators (AABR), the small scale 

use of fire to stimulate native plant regeneration, the control of stormwater impacts on remnant vegetation 

areas, and the propagation and installation of plants grown from seed collected in Galaringi Reserve and 

Cox Park using Florabank Guidelines. 

The past budget allocated to bushland restoration works across the Council area has not been sufficient 

to allow adequate secondary weeding or maintenance in Galaringi Reserve or Cox Park. In order to 

undertake the following bushland restoration program, recurrent funding will need to be increased. 

A number of performance measures are to be used to assess the success of the program. These are as 

follows: 

• no net loss of bushland 

• maintenance and enhancement of indigenous flora species diversity 

• maintenance and enhancement of indigenous fauna species diversity 

• an annual decrease throughout the ten year program, in weed cover. 

7.1 Status of Bushland Restoration Program – Galaringi Reserve 

For the implementation of the ten year bush restoration program funding will need to be sourced from 

internal or external grant sources. The budget figures in Table 11, reflect the current levels of primary and 

secondary restoration, and maintenance occurring in the area of the Plan of Management. 

ZONE 1 - CURRENT STATUS 

Total area currently undergoing restoration is 7600m 2 with 80% at secondary restoration and the 

remainder under maintenance. Mowing ceased with in this zone over 9 years ago with very good 

germination from the soil native seed bank over large tracts of this Zone. Restoration works have 

GALARINGI, COX PARK,DANDARBONG RESERVE SEPTEMBER 2002 PLAN OF MANAGEMENT 



PAGE 57 

occurred under Mobbs Hill lookout (including minor revegetation) and the native grasslands near the 

outdoor class room area. Along the Evans Rd frontage, a sweep of the first 10 metres was performed in 

1999-2000 with follow-up in 2001-02 concentrating on woody weeds. 

TEN YEAR PLAN 

A continued priority will be the public frontages of the reserve under Mobbs Hill lookout and along Evans 

Rd. Emphasis will be placed on improving the fuel reduced zone behind the firebreak at the rear of 

properties along Marsden Rd. The highest density of weeds is within the riparian areas of the creeks and 

at the boundaries of the reserves due to higher nutrient levels and disturbance. These areas will receive a 

mosaic restoration pattern and subsequent maintenance to protect regionally significant fauna and flora 

species. Increased nutrient loads due to stormwater and runoff will be assessed, and a program instated 

to reduce the impacts. 

Concerted efforts will be required to encourage the establishment of canopy trees through restoration 

across this zone, so that works will concentrate on the interface between zones 1&2. The goal will be to 

have 80-90% (depending on funding) indigenous species cover in this zone within the ten year period. 


Total area currently undergoing restoration is 8800m 2 with 80% at secondary restoration stage and the 

remainder in an early phase of maintenance. Focus has been at the boundary of Galaringi and Madingley 

(the former National Trust property) within the Blue Gum High Forest remnant with works extending 

towards Bankshill Crescent, and recently at the frontage of Marsden Road. 

TEN YEAR PLAN 

Primary restoration will be required in a mosaic pattern and spread over the ten year period to maintain 

fauna habitat. For example, Eastern Whipbirds are currently inhabiting the dense weeds in the reserve at 

the rear of Warwick Rd. Secondary restoration and maintenance will follow the mosaic pattern to preserve 

habitat values in this zone. The fuel reduced zone behind properties on Marsden Rd will be expanded 

and maintained. The goal is to have the core Blue Gum High Forest remnant at 90-95% indigenous 

species level within the ten year timeframe (depending on funding). 

7.2 Status of Bushland Restoration Program – Cox Park 


Total area currently undergoing restoration is 12,900m 2 with 25% at secondary restoration and the 

remainder under maintenance. Cox Park has received consistent levels of funding since 1994, which has 

led to a large area of low weed density to the east of the creek. A fuel reduced zone is maintained at the 

rear of Honiton Ave East. In 2000 the first steps were taken to restore the riparian area and frontage of 

the reserve adjacent to Evans Rd. 

TEN YEAR PLAN 

Continued focus will occur along the road frontage to improve the visual amenity of the bushland. A fuel 

reduced zone will be maintained at the rear of the reserve adjacent to properties on Honiton Ave East. 

Within the riparian area a mosaic removal of weeds will occur to protect the habitat of the Eastern 




PAGE 58 

Whipbird and other small native birds. Continued secondary and maintenance reflects this pattern of 

restoration. Under the sporting field the removal of the high density of weeds and addressing stormwater 

run-off; will provide a stable interface with the bushland. The goal will be to have 85-95% indigenous 

native level in this zone within the ten year time period. 

Zone 1 

Galaringi 

Zone 3 

Cox Park 

Bushland 

Zone 2 

Blue Gum High 

Forest 

Figure 8 Bushland Management Zones 




PAGE 59 

TABLE 10 TEN YEAR BUSHLAND RESTORATION PROGRAM 

ZONE 

ACTIONS 

(Priority within zones) 

YEAR RESPONSIBILITY DESCRIPTION 

1 Maintenance Weeding 

2 – 10 

Environment and 

Health Unit 

Maintenance weeding across the reserve 

Secondary Weeding 

3 – 10 


Health Unit 

Secondary weeding along creek drainage 

lines, grasslands, and fuel reduced zones* 

Planting 

1 - 5 


Health Unit 

Planting local indigenous species beneath the 

Eric Mobbs lookout to replace dying trees 

Primary weeding* 

2 - 10 


Health Unit 

Focus on creeklines and edges 

Removal of non* 

indigenous species 

2 - 4 


Health Unit 

Removal of non indigenous species using 

minimal impact techniques 

Facilitate canopy 

expansion 

2 - 10 


Health Unit 

Manage bushland to facilitate expansion of 

Blue Gum canopy succession 

Rectify 

Stormwater impacts* 

2 - 10 


Health Unit 

Identify and rectify areas where stormwater is 

impacting on bushland 

2 Maintenance Weeding 

1- 10 


Health Unit 

Maintenance weeding in areas where primary 

weeding has occurred 

Secondary Weeding 

1 – 10 


Health Unit 

Maintain areas where primary weeding has 

occurred in the upper section of the zone and 

fuel reduced zones* 

Primary Weeding* 

2 – 10 


Health Unit 

Expand primary weeding program in the Blue 

Gum High Forest area of this zone 

Rectify Stormwater 

impacts 

2 - 10 


Health Unit 

Identify and rectify areas where stormwater is 

impacting on bushland 

3 Maintenance weeding 

1 - 10 


Health Unit 

Ongoing bush regeneration of primary and 

secondary weeding to maintain momentum 

Secondary weeding 

1 - 10 


Health Unit 

In areas of recent primary weeding by 

Council’s bush regeneration contractors and 

fuel reduced zones*. 

Primary weeding 

2 - 10 


Health Unit 

Expand regenerating bushland areas through 

ongoing primary weeding focusing on 

creekline 

All 

Zones 

Seed Collection 

1 – 10 


Health Unit 

Ongoing seed collection to Council nursery for 

growing local indigenous tube stock for 

landscape works and edge planting 

Edge Planting 

1 – 10 


Health Unit 

Plant local indigenous species along edges 

requiring delineation 

Pile and Broad Scale 

Burning 

1 – 10 


Health Unit 

NSW Fire 

Brigades 

NSW Fire Brigades undertake small scale 

burns of dried weed piles to stimulate 

regeneration of seed bank 

Fauna Habitat 

Management 

1 - 10 


Health Unit 

Active management of bushland for fauna 

habitat 

*Dependant on increased levels of funding from external and internal sources 




PAGE 60 

8 THE MASTER PLAN 

8.1 S UMMARY 

The Masterplan (Figure 9) is to be read in conjunction with the Plan of Management. The features of the 

Masterplan respond to the Management Actions seen in Section 6. The Management Actions together 

with the Masterplan reflect the community’s values by responding to the community consultation and 

research undertaken prior to, during and after the exhibition of the first draft of the Galaringi, Cox Park, 

Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park Plan of Management. 

The Masterplan aims to strike an appropriate balance between protecting the natural values found in 

these reserves and providing for appropriate recreation for the community. The Masterplan also aims to 

retain enhance and rationalise on-site works that have already been completed such as ponds, pathways 

and outdoor classrooms. 

Staged implementation of the Masterplan will result in a system of parks and reserves that provide 

recreational opportunities for the community and at the same time protect biodiversity. A Master Plan 

implementation schedule with cost estimates of individual capital and project works components is shown 

in Table 10. Annual maintenance costs for mowing and maintenance of facilities in the Plan of 

Management area are significant but have not been calculated to date. Table 11 provides a costing 

schedule for the Bushland Restoration Program for Galaringi Reserve and Cox Park. Potential grant 

funding sources for ongoing implementation of the Master Plan are outlined in Table 13. 

Community research, feedback, and legislative amendments (seen in the Local Government Act 

Regulation 1999) place an emphasis on retaining and enhancing the natural values of the Plan of 

Management area. The majority of the bushland in these parks and reserves is of a type that has been 

classified as an endangered ecological community under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. 

Council is required, under this legislation, to protect and participate in the recovery of the Blue Gum High 

Forest and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest found in these reserves. As such, bushland restoration 

activities are proposed to manage the remnant vegetation and bushland (see Section 7). 

It should be noted that this Plan of Management provides conceptual details of work that is to be 

undertaken within the parks and reserves. During the implementation of works outlined, a detailed design 

plan will be prepared to direct each stage of work, where required. 

GALARINGI RESERVE 

Council encourages the community to enter and utilise community land, such as Galaringi Reserve, for 

recreational purposes. To this end, pathways and bush tracks have been included and better presentation 

of entrances with signage, landscaping and fencing is proposed. Galaringi Reserve’s exterior appearance 

will be improved through staged implementation of this Masterplan. 

Stronger pedestrian links between Galaringi Reserve /Cox Park and the wider open space of the Dundas 

/Carlingford area will be created with “The Ponds Walk”. Existing pedestrian paths will be retained and 

improved to help create these connections. 




PAGE 61 

Car parking is provided in the Masterplan for those who arrive by vehicle. Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 

contains parking;parallel parking is proposed adjacent to Galaringi Reserve at the southern end of Evans 

Rd;and the surrounding streets provide adequate parking for users of Galaringi Reserve. 

COXPARK 

Bushland protection and restoration is required in Cox Park for the same reasons stated above for 

Galaringi Reserve. “The Ponds Walk” will also pass through Cox Park with fencing and entrance signage 

installed to provide for public safety and direction and an enhanced appearance. 

The car park within Cox Park has been recently resurfaced and upgraded. Scope is provided in the 

master plan for the inclusion of an additional car park on the western side of Evans Road to alleviate 

parking pressure for the users of Cox Park Oval and the Carlingford Bowling Club. Under Councils New 

Road Work Construction Program, road works are scheduled to be undertaken on Evans Road in 2003 – 

2004. The work will include street scaping compatible with the bushland setting, traffic calming, designing 

a footpath, and will address parking needs. 

Prior to undertaking the road works a detailed design plan will be prepared that is in line with the 

requirements of this Plan of Management and in consultation with Councils Bushland Management and 

Open Space and Recreation Officers. The type of traffic calming to be implemented, the location of the 

footpath and additional car parking will be determined during this design process, and has therefore not 

been illustrated in the master plan. On completion of works design, a community consultation program 

with be undertaken. 

The surface of the Sportsground has been recently upgraded, however, drainage impacts on the adjacent 

Cox Park bushland are still evident and will need to be addressed. Spectator comfort has been addressed 

in line with the scale of events and spectator numbers attracted to Cox Park. 

The Carlingford Bowling Sports and Recreation Club currently hold a 21 year lease in Cox Park. This 

lease is scheduled to end in 2019. 

The children’s playground at the northern end of Cox Park has recently been upgraded and will be 

maintained as required. 

DANDARBONG RESERVE 

Dandarbong Reserve provides a pedestrian link to Galaringi Reserve and subsequently Carlingford 

shops. This reserve has a number of constraints such that on-site improvement works are to be minimal. 

Access points will be maintained and entry points to Galaringi Reserve highlighted. 

Scope is allowed for Council assisted community planting should there be an interest shown by residents. 

Prior to undertaking any plantings under or near powerlines, Energy Australia are to be consulted. 




PAGE 62 


The Masterplan proposes to retain the lookout in essentially the same configuration and to update it. The 

20-year-old lookout requires modernising and a design that better responds to local and regional open 

space features and the natural values of the area. The park will be an important viewing point into the 

future with removal of wattle trees below the lookout as they die and replace with lower growing plant 

species. 




PAGE 63 

TABLE 11 CAPITAL &P ROJECT 

WORKS – COST AND PRIORITY 

AREA ITEM DESCRIPTION PRIORITY 

ESTIMATE 

OF COST 

Galaringi 

Reserve 

Cox Park 

Eric Mobbs 

Memorial 

Park 

Dandarbong 

Reserve 

The Ponds walk 

Ponds walking track improvement, signage and 

directional markers, fencing, and installation of 

seats 

H $ 18 000 

Interpretive Signage Installation of interpretive signage H-M $ 10 000 

H 

Contract consultants to survey fauna within the 

Fauna survey 

(Ongoing) 

$ 12 000 

reserve 

Track Consolidation & 

linkage 

Complete pathway links and remove excess 

tracks 

H 

$ 10 000 

Parking area Creating parallel parking area on Evans Road M $ 50 000 

The Ponds walk 

Fauna survey 

Improvements to Evans 

Road 

Weed eradication and 

enhancement 

Ponds walk upgrade, with installation of 

directional signs and fencing 

Contract consultants to survey fauna within the 

park 

Road works to include street scaping, traffic 

calming, and the provision of parking and a 

footpath 

Removal of weeds around boundary of 

Carlingford Sports Bowling and Recreation Club 

Enhancement planting of area 

H $ 12 000 

H 

$ 8 000 

M $ 500 000* 

M 

$ 8 000 

$ 8 000 

Drainage Drainage mitigation from Cox oval M $ 40 000 

Recreation amenities Enhancement of playground and surrounds L $ 30 000 

Improvement of existing 

amenities 

Improvement of kiosk through addition of awning 

Other improvements to buildings and surrounds 

L $ 15 000 

$ 35 000 

(landscaping, etc.) 

M-L 

Footpath construction Footpath construction along Evans Road L $ 32 000 

Eric Mobbs Lookout 

Facility installation 

Signage 

Updating the structures and landscaping of Eric 

Mobbs lookout 

Installation of park furniture at Eric Mobbs 

Memorial Park 

Installation of signage to highlight access routes 

into the reserve 

M $ 250 000 

L 

$ 20 000 

M $ 2 000 

Slope stabilisation 

Revegetation near vehicle access points to 

stabilise slopes 

L $ 10 000 

OVER 10 YEAR PERIOD 1,070,000 

*Based on a preliminary estimate, the final cost will be determined on completion of a detailed design plan for road 

works. 




PAGE 64 

TABLE 12 ANNUAL BUSHLAND RESTORATION COSTS 

AREA ITEM DESCRIPTION 

ESTIMATE 

OF COST 

Galaringi Reserve Bush Restoration Eradication of environmental and 

noxious weeds, revegetation 

works and education 

Cox Park Bush Restoration Eradication of environmental and 

noxious weeds, revegetation 

works, and community 

involvement and education 

Dandarbong Reserve Minor planting Council to facilitate minor 

community planting in the reserve 

$34500 

$15 000 

$ 500 

ANNUAL TOTAL $50 000 

TABLE 13 POTENTIAL EXTERNAL GRANT FUNDING SOURCES 

PROGRAM 

Noxious Weed 

Grants 

Metropolitan 

Greenspace 

Capital 

Assistance 

Program 

NSW 

Rivercare 

Environmental 

Trust 

Natural 

Heritage Trust 

PURPOSE 

Financial assistance for control of declared noxious weeds 

Focus on vegetation projects, landscape improvements in 

regionally significant areas 

Construction and improvement of public sporting and 

recreational facilities 

Restoration and management of waterways 

Funding to community organisations and local government for 

restoration, rehabilitation and education 

To improve the ability of communities to sustainably manage 

their environments and natural resources 

ADMINISTERING 

AGENCY 

NSW Agriculture 

NSW Department 

of Urban Affairs 

and Planning 


of Sport 

and Recreation 


of Land and 

Water 

Conservation 

NSW 

Environmental 

Protection 

Authority 

Environment 

Australia 




I 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

The purpose of this Plan of Management is to assist and direct Council in the management of the 

contiguous areas of community land known as Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve 

and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park. This Plan of Management was adopted by Council on 23 September 

2002, and will direct management of the parks and reserves for a ten year period. 

Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park are located in 

suburban Carlingford in the Parramatta Local Government Area. The site is situated approximately 

10km northeast of Parramatta, and 30km west of the Sydney CBD. The Plan of Management area 

comprises a total of 28 hectares and lies within the Lachlan Macquarie Ward of the City of 

Parramatta. 

The management of parks and reserves, sportsgrounds and land for general community use is guided 

by Council’s generic plans of management, which were adopted in 1996. Together, Galaringi 

Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park form an important public 

facility such that it was decided that a significant area Plan of Management was required. Over recent 

years, this significance has been seen primarily in the high level of community interest and 

involvement in sections of the Plan of Management area and in the important biodiversity values 

found in the parks’ and reserves’ bushland. 

Comprehensive community consultation and research was undertaken in the development of this 

Plan of Management. Local residents, members of interest groups, stakeholders and Councillors 

participated towards the preparation of the Plan. Community research was undertaken to determine 

the wider community’s values and behaviour with respect to local parks and the Plan of Management 

area. The wider community was found to value the parks and reserves and facilities in the plan of 

management area for its natural bushland, access to local shops, local open space, views, as a 

sportsground and as part of the wider open space system. 

An earlier draft - Plan of Management for Galaringi Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric 

Mobbs Memorial Park 1999 - was publicly exhibited in late 1999. In late 2000, Council resolved that 

the draft Plan of Management required amendment and re-exhibition. Submissions received as a 

result of that exhibition were incorporated into this current Plan of Management. As such, the 

Management Actions and Masterplan contained within this Plan of Management for Galaringi 

Reserve, Cox Park, Dandarbong Reserve and Eric Mobbs Memorial Park 2001 - reflect significant 

community feedback and input. 

In addition to community values, relevant legislation places an emphasis or requirement on Council to 

retain and enhance the natural values of the Plan of Management area. The majority of the bushland 

in these parks and reserves is of a type that has been classified as an endangered ecological 

community under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Council is required, under this 

legislation, to protect and participate in the recovery of the Blue Gum High Forest and Sydney 

Turpentine Ironbark Forest found in these reserves. As such, bushland restoration activities are 

proposed to manage the remnant vegetation and bushland.

Galaringi Plan of Management - Parramatta City Council - NSW ...

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