A major upgrade to the Perrys lookdown is now complete, enhancing safety and visitor amenities at the popular precinct.
The major overhaul includes an upgrade of the day-use area, installation of new toilet facilities, upgraded parking facilities and improved tracks, with a focus on supporting cultural activities, including the establishment of a yarning circle.
One of the key components of this project involved the sealing of Perrys lookdown and Anvil Rock roads within the park.
This will not only enhance visitor access but will also mitigate gravel and silt runoff into the delicate ecosystems of the Blue Mountains Swamps, a vulnerable ecological community.
Environmental conservation was at the heart of these improvements, with a strong emphasis on protecting native species and their habitats.
A thorough spotlighting survey, supplemented by thermal drone, was conducted to assess nocturnal wildlife activity. Sophisticated monitoring equipment including Songmeters were deployed to detect koala vocalisations and Audiomoth data was utilised to evaluate the impact on microbat species.
During tree works, an National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) ranger equipped with expertise in fauna spotting and handling, oversaw operations to safeguard wildlife and preserve hollow-bearing trees and branches.
Topsoil from the disturbance areas was carefully preserved and spread across revegetated areas to retain vital soil microbes, seed banks, spores and mulch, while eucalypt crown branches containing seeds were placed throughout the site to promote natural reseeding as they break down.
Perrys lookdown offers scenic views over Grose Valley, Blue Gum Forest and Mount Banks, on the western edge of Blue Mountains National Park.
Perrys lookdown is a day use only area. Camping and fires are not permitted.
Quotes attributable to NPWS Upper Mountains Area Manager Will Batson:
We're extremely pleased to have completed the road sealing component of this project as it will have a huge positive impact on emergency response efforts in Blue Mountains National Park.
With more than 130 people getting lost or needing rescuing in Blue Mountains National Park each year, improving access for emergency services, including firefighters and search and rescue operators, to different areas of the park is a top priority.
We kept protecting native species and their habitats front of mind during the upgrade process. We're extremely grateful to The Random Meanderers for their survey work and expert advice throughout.
A diverse range of species including waratah, lomandra, banksia, and various orchid species were translocated from disturbance areas to restore and rehabilitate the site.
The autumn and winter months deliver great bushwalking weather, and we can't wait to welcome visitors back to Perrys lookdown in coming months.
