On the bank of the Wooli Wooli River, not far from where it enters the ocean is an angled metal sign about the importance of the River and the Marine Park, and its environs to support life. This Interpretative Sign reads:
Welcome to Wooli Wooli River
The Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr people have lived around the Wooli Wooli River for thousands of years, and the river remains significant to them. In this area there are several sites and landscapes which feature in their stories, myths and legends.
The first marine park declared in NSW, the Solitary Islands Marine Park includes islands, estuaries, beaches, intertidal rocky shores, subtidal reefs, open ocean and soft-sediment habitats.
The unique region with various habitats and mixing of cool and warm currents encourages marine biodiversity and provides safe haven to migrating whales and birds.
Mangrove jack Fiddler crab
(photo by Brett Vercoe) (Photo by Daniella Marks)
There are 5 estuaries in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. These highly productive systems are important nursery grounds for many species.
Estuaries are important. Thousands of birds, mammals, fish, shellfish and marine organisms depend on sheltered estuaries to live, feed, and reproduce.
Mangrove habitat Juvenile mullet
(photo by Hamish Malcolm) (Photo by Daniella Marks)
Aerial view of Wooli Wooli River mouth
Wooli is surrounded by Yuragir National Park, and the Wooli Wooli River Estuary is part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park. The pristine waters make it an excellent region for growing oysters.
Saltmarshes are made up of salt couch, red samphire and rushes, and may harbour important insect communities.
Saltmarshes are listed as an endangered ecological community, and Council is working to protect them from damage. They are critical for erosion control, protecting water quality and providing habitat. As many as 41 species of commercially caught fish rely on saltmarsh for food and shelter.
Brahminy kite
What birds might you see?
This region supports an amazing variety of native and migratory birds.
They include the Black-necked stork, and the Azure kingfisher
Please watch where you walk! Migratory birds such as little terns may be nesting close by!
Beach stone-curlew - Critically Endangered
This area is being rehabilitated by Clarence Valley Council and the local community with funding support from the NSW Environmental Trust
How can you help?
* Take only photos, leave only footprints
* Use paths where possible
* Control dogs & cats at all times
* Report vandalism or habitat destruction
* Volunteer for Landcare
Please enjoy your visit
For further information phone Clarence Valley Council
6643 0200
This is at the southern end of Main Street, and it is a bit confusing what the name of the Street is - South Terrace, or Riverside Drive.
Visited: 0840, Wednesday, 20 December, 2017