Public Notice 01/09/2026

Meet Council's Newest Weed-Fighting Team!

This site is part of Operation G.O.A.T., an innovative bushland restoration trial using targeted goat grazing to help manage invasive weeds in difficult to access areas.

Georges River Council Bushcare Team manages more than 188 ha of urban bushland, providing vital habitat for wildlife, supporting biodiversity, protecting waterways, and creating valuable green spaces for the community to enjoy.

Some weeds have become so dense that they overwhelm native plants and make restoration works difficult, costly, and sometimes unsafe. That's where our hardworking goats come in!
 

Why Are There Goats Here? 

Goats can go where people and machinery can't. Using their natural grazing behaviour, goats can safely access steep slopes, thick vegetation, and challenging terrain to reduce large infestations of invasive weeds.

This natural approach helps: 

• Reduce invasive weed growth.

• Improve conditions for native plant recovery.

• Enhance habitat for local wildlife.

• Improve access for restoration works.

• Assist with bushfire fuel reduction.

By reducing weed cover, the goats help prepare the site for ongoing bush regeneration and long-term environmental restoration.
 

How Operation G.O.A.T. Works

1. Stage 1 – Goats at Work: Our four-legged contractors tackle dense weed infestations, reducing weed biomass and opening up areas that are difficult to access. We expect the goats to be with us for a period of four weeks. Starting on Wednesday 2 September 2026. 

2. Stage 2 – Bushcare in Action: Once the goats have completed their work, Council's Bushcare Team will undertake follow-up weed management, targeting remaining weeds and invasive species. Preparing the site for revegetation.  

3. Stage 3 – Nature's Comeback: Council's Bushcare Team, together with Oatley Flora and Fauna volunteers, will undertake the final stage of restoration, supporting the recovery of native bushland through weed control, natural regeneration, revegetation, and ongoing site maintenance. 

Together, these steps help transform weed dominated areas into healthier, more resilient bushland. 
 

Please help us keep the goats safe

• Do not feed the goats – The goats are following a carefully managed grazing program and we do not want to distract them from their job. 

• Dogs must be kept on a leash - Do not allow dogs to approach, harass, or disturb the goats. 

• Fencing – To ensure the goats remain in the trial area and remain safe temporary fencing has been installed. Do not touch, climb, or interfere with the fence. 

• No unauthorised entry - For your safety and the welfare of the animals, no unauthorised entry is permitted. 

Concerned about a goat? Please contact Bushcare on (02) 9330 6400.