Austinmer - Environment

Austinmer lies between a magnificent coastline and spectacular backdrop of the Escarpment. It is framed by rocky headlands to the North and South, and surrounded by fragrant Norfolk Pines. The pines are located at Austinmer beach. They are a group of Araucaria heterophylla approximately 40 years old and they provide a landmark and reinforce the identity of beaches.

The vegetation consists of mixed eucalyptus forest association, sup-tropical rain forest, Canary Island Palm trees, smaller trees, open shrubbery understorey, predominantly of the family Proteaceae, Epacridaceae and Papolionaceae.(City of Wollongong Heritage Study: Vol 3-5)

The coastal plain is joined to the Escarpment by rising foothills. Developments on the plain and foothills are visible from the Escarpment. The two regions, Illawarra Escarpment and Illawarra Plain are inseperable. The oceanographic aspects of the region provide an integral part of the visual and natural attractions of the region.

Some of the fauna to be found are the Sooty Oyster Catcher - an endangered species, reptiles, parrots, possums, frogs, snails, numerous arthropods and other invertebrates.

The Glastonbury Gardens located along Lawrence Hargrave Drive is a public park containing mature Phoenix canariensis, Sabal palms, strelitzia nicholai and Araucaria heterophylla. This was previously the site of a colliery dam which is still visible. The park is a focal point for community events.