Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith recently joined volunteers of Conservation Volunteers Australia to announce that the Eastern Water Dragons (EWD) habitat in Penrith will benefit from a conservation grant of $5,000. 

The EWD is a protected species and is believed to be one of Australia’s oldest reptiles. They are often seen sunning themselves along the Great River Walk of the Nepean River. 

“CVA will use these funds to engage and educate the local community via conservation activities and to remove weeds along the Nepean River that cause havoc for the Eastern Water Dragons,” said Stuart Ayres. 

The CVA Eastern Water Dragon Habitat Regeneration is a partnership with Penrith City Council and aims to restore the habitat for the EWD through community engagement and weed treatments. Since the launch in April 2018, 3 project days have been undertaken with an additional 4 days planned in the future. 

“I’m delighted that this grant for CVA will assist in protecting this magnificent lizard species,” said Stuart Ayres. 

CVA thanks the Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, for his support and recognition of the importance of habitat for the iconic Eastern Water Dragon. This funding will add value to the current project, restore and improve another kilometre of river bank whilst providing additional community education and resources. 

To register for a Water Dragon project, contact Lucy at the CVA Penrith office on 4721 4625 or email WesternSydney@cva.org.au.