News brief

Sydney Park unveiled

Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP and local member Tanya Plibersek met with local residents on Saturday to reveal the multimillion dollar Sydney Park plans.

The upgrade will lead to 850 million litres of stormwater recycled and used in the park, wetlands and potentially local businesses.

Ms Moore said the project will help accomplish the City’s aim to increase the use of recycled water by 25 per cent.

“I’m proud of the fact we are meeting these benchmarks while also improving the look, feel and sustainability of open space for Sydneysiders and local wildlife,” Ms Moore said.

The project will also upgrade the existing landscape to connect the two existing wetland areas and will create a new picnic area.

Ms Moore said the proposal will bring more wildlife to the park.

“Twenty six native bird species have been recorded at the Sydney Park wetlands within the past year, but in small numbers,” Ms Moore said.

“The improved habitat should encourage more species to live and breed in the park.

The plans are on exhibition until October 24.

Giant Globe rolls to carbon tax celebration

Sydneysiders, community leaders and politicians celebrated the new carbon tax laws on Saturday with a rally at the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

The rally’s focus point was a giant globe representing the future of clean and green technology and sustainability, which is on its way around NSW before it finishes its relay in Canberra.

Nature Conservation Council CEO Pepe Clarke said: “Today we gather to celebrate an historic step in the right direction for reducing the nation’s carbon pollution and kick‐starting new investment in clean energy.

Director of Climate Action Network Australia, Georgina Woods said: “The groundswell of support for action on climate change has resulted in a ‘Yes’ vote in the Lower House.

“While this is an important first step, we still have much more to do to tackle climate change and leave a legacy for our children that we can proud of,” she said.