Rivers of Carbon is the on-ground program of the Australian River Restoration Centre.


Overview

Location: Gibraltar Creek, ACT

This project focuses on restoring Gibraltar Creek, a tributary of the Upper Murrumbidgee River, to improve water quality, strengthen landscape connectivity, and build long-term resilience across this important catchment interface. With funding from the EKU Energy Williamsdale BESS Community Grants Program, we will deliver a suite of on-ground works designed to restore ecological function in the riparian corridor.  

Project area

Activities will include:  

  • Construction of new 1km fencing to exclude livestock from Gibraltar Creek
  • Removal of redundant fencing that no longer provides effective stock control
  • Weed control across 6.8hectares to reduce competition and support natural regeneration
  • Small-scale erosion control works to stabilise vulnerable areas and prevent sediment loss
  • Revegetation through 700 tree plantings to re-establish multi-storey native vegetation and enhance biodiversity
  • A demonstration community planting day

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Outcomes:

  • Water quality - Reduced erosion, improved creek stability, and less sediment entering downstream systems.
  • Biodiversity - Improved ecological condition, habitat connectivity, and biodiversity through native revegetation.
  • Climate resilience - Stronger landscape connectivity between Tidbinbilla and Namadgi reserves, restoring river function and increasing flood, fire and drought resilience.
  • Carbon sequestration – Revegetation and restored aquatic ecosystems increase the capture and long-term storage of carbon in vegetation, soils and connected waterways.
  • Environmental stewardship - Increased landholder capacity and community learning opportunities, encouraging ongoing water stewardship.

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Timeline

The project commenced in August 2026, followed by ongoing monitoring and maintenance for 12 months.