Hi,
As someone who has had an input into the hide refurbishment at the Jerrabomberra Wetlands I need to clarify a few points in the light of the recent postings to the chat-line.
Given the filthy state of the hides due to the possums and various bird species using the hide and to the state of the guttering etc it was decided by the Jerrabomberra Wetlands Board that time had come to refurbish the hides. Quite where the idea that a decision was made after the last Open Day at the Wetlands came from I have no idea for I can assure you this is incorrect. Given that there was no access for wheelchairs, now a statutory requirement, it was decided to remove the inner wall, replace with screening on the outside of the hides and widen the footpaths all to allow wheelchair access.
Despite the views put by some on the chat-line, I and other members of the Board and the Rangers all take the opportunity when it arises to question the general public on view of the hides. All appear to agree that the hides are a great improvement. One reply in particular stands out in my mind and that was from a gentleman who taught at the Education Centre at the Wetlands. He indicated that the hides were never used by the teaching staff or pupils because they were dirty, small and one never knew what was going to be found using the area. The wall in particular was an unfriendly feature as it hid from view what was going on in the hides.
My personal experience is that the removal of the wall has made no difference to the behaviours of the birds using the area but from the chat-line contributions I appear to be in a minority. I have referred the discussion about different heights of peep-holes in the brush fence to the relevant authorities.
It is interesting that it would appear that the views of those who have contributed to the chat-line on this issue differ from that of the general public. It is obvious that the two groups appear to use the hides for different purposes with COG members using the hides for photography, sound recording, details observations on behaviour etc V casual looks and an identification of species by the general public. Both need to be catered for and so there may well be a place for say a couple of hides specifically designed to cater for those with specific needs.
I would therefor welcome any ideas on design, placement etc by those who would like to see hides that can be used specifically for photography etc, bearing in mind the need for disability access.
Whilst I am on-line I would like to advertise the ‘Friend of the Jerrabomberra Wetlands’ who are always looking for additional volunteers to make a real difference to the area. To date Michael, the Ranger, with the help of the ‘Friends’ and CVA have planted over 3000 trees and shrubs which thankfully are all surviving well.
Chris
