Eco-theology at the Centre for Ministry

Twelve years ago, the bush land on the Centre for Ministry site at North Parramatta was choking under a destructive mantle of privet, lantana and weeds.

Now the precious resource has been painstakingly restored.

Hardwood turpentine trees stretch toward the sunlight and undergrowth covers much of the ground. (The pylons of the wharfs at Circular Quay are turpentine.) These turpentine trees are one of the last stands on the Cumberland plain.

A smelly drain has become a fresh running creek where ducks, yabbies and frogs have made their home.

The banks of the creek have been planted with natives to stop erosion and over 1000 trees and shrubs have been added.

Lace monitors and goanna provide an annoyance to the magpies and possums swing through the trees at night.

Slowly but surely the bush is regenerating with native species self seeding and taking root.

Carefully negotiating through bush beside the creek is the “Burnie kids Track”, honouring the thousands of Burnside children who lived and played there from 1911 to 1986.

It’s a peaceful and relaxing stroll, with a couple of spots to sit and reflect, providing a refreshing break for students at the Centre. They can take a walk to hear the symphony of birds, see the maiden hair ferns thriving and check out the regenerating trees.