Unfortunately, with COVID-19 still playing havoc with many activities, only existing volunteers were invited this time.

"Given the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, we can only invite our existing volunteers," South West Rocks Community Dune Care President Ian Burnett said.

"It's difficult to train new volunteers with appropriate social distance, and sadly we can't offer our usual fabulous morning tea and BBQ lunch to share."

The lack of catering certainly didn't deter the enthusiastic volunteers at the last working bee on June 28 though.

"Last time we had 32 people (including seven visiting volunteers) working in several small groups to remove invasive weeds over 1.6 hectares at Back Beach," Ian said.

"We tackled bitou bush, senna, ochna, asparagus ferns, lantana and Brazilian nightshade.

"It was great to see the Back Beach area regenerating really well with lots of young native trees, shrubs and ground covers across the dunes."

For the last week of June, the seven visiting volunteers from Sydney and locals notched up a total of 345 hours at sites including Back Creek, South Smoky Beach and the Boyters Lane Bird Hide.

This month also brings energetic visiting volunteers from Newcastle University Student Environment Club (NUSEC) who will spend a week helping local volunteers from South West Rocks Community Dune Care weed public bushland.

This is the eighth year NUSEC has helped out during their July break. The students have made a significant contribution to SWR Community Dune Care's efforts in re-establishing a resilient and diverse ecosystem around South West Rocks.

For more information, check out the Facebook page: "SWRcommunitydunecare", or phone Alan Hill on 0419 012 640.

South West Rocks Community Dune Care has major funding from the NSW Environmental Trust, and is also supported by National Parks and Wildlife Service, Kempsey Shire Council and Local Land Services North Coast.

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