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The Hawkesbury-Nepean River, or Dyarubbin, tells a story carved over millions of years — a story of geological upheaval, dynamic river systems, and evolving ecosystems. Today, this river, once a wild and braided waterway, faces severe ecological challenges. Nutrient pollution, sedimentation, and invasive species threaten its biodiversity, water quality, and cultural significance. Our project envisions an adaptive future for the river, embracing its dynamism and restoring its ecological integrity.
Situated at the abandoned Emu Plains Boral sand and gravel quarries, the design reimagines the riverbend as a living, evolving system. Instead of imposing static solutions like the artificial Pondi swimming area, which isolates human activity from natural processes, we propose an approach that works with the river’s natural rhythms. By allowing the bend to flow freely, this design harnesses the river’s erosive and depositional forces to create a landscape that thrives on motion and change.
Central to this vision is the integration of mycelium-based restoration techniques. Mycelium filters contaminants, binds soil, and supports native vegetation, creating a resilient riparian ecosystem. Alongside these micro-processes, we restore Cumberland woodland and floodplain forests, reviving pre-colonial landscapes and reintroducing ecological functionality.
A 5.5 km walking loop, a 50-hectare ecological restoration park, and a 3-hectare swimming area emerge as key amenities. The swimming area, repurposed from a sediment dam, filters river water through subcatchments to ensure safe recreation. Importantly, all infrastructure is designed to be movable and adaptable, reflecting the ever-changing nature of the river.
This project sets a precedent for floodplain restoration, reconnecting fragmented landscapes into a functional, healthy ecosystem. It prioritizes education and community engagement to foster collective stewardship of the river. By integrating micro-scale processes with large-scale river dynamics, the design creates a landscape that is both ecologically regenerative and culturally meaningful — a model for embracing big changes in a small world.
