Bushfire risk reduction helps revive one of Australia's rarest plants at Transgrid substation

The discovery of Caley's Grevillea by Transgrid’s environment team is the first in more than a decade of the species found only within a small area of Sydney's northern bushland.

Transgrid General Manager of Environmental Strategy and Planning Monika Moutos said the find after a hazard reduction burn shows that critical infrastructure and environmental conservation can go hand in hand.

“One of the Caley's Grevillea’s most remarkable characteristics is its dependence on fire for regeneration,” Ms Moutos said.

“We’re delighted that our hazard reduction burns around this important electricity substation that powers Sydney homes and businesses, led to the perfect conditions that allowed dormant seeds to germinate.

“The discovery demonstrates how carefully planned land management activities can improve community safety while supporting biodiversity outcomes.”

Across its network, Transgrid manages thousands of kilometres of easements and operational sites that support both reliable bulk electricity supply and environmental stewardship.

As Australia transitions to a cleaner energy future, responsible land management continues to play an important role in balancing infrastructure needs with biodiversity conservation.

Following the discovery, Transgrid worked with representatives from the NSW Government's Saving our Species program to inspect the site and assess the significance of the population.

The findings are expected to contribute to ongoing research to improve understanding of the species' genetic diversity and resilience, helping guide future recovery and conservation actions, with the newly identified Sydney East Substation population providing valuable insights.

DCCEEW Senior Project Officer of Conservation Programs Erica Mahon said the Saving our Species program values Transgrid’s commitment to managing Grevillea caleyi and other important ecological assets across its network.

“Meaningful conservation of threatened species is only possible through strong partnerships, and this collaboration demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when organisations work together” Ms Mahon said.

The newly identified population will continue to be monitored as part of Transgrid’s ongoing environmental management program, helping inform future conservation efforts.

Grevillea caleyi fast facts 

• Declared as critically endangered in NSW and Australia
• Grevillea caleyi survives across eight square kilometres centred around Belrose and Terrey Hills, with only around 20 known wild populations remaining
• Habitat loss, urban development and fragmentation have significantly reduced its natural distribution over time
• Medium to tall shrub with long spreading branches, up to four metres high and wide
• Divided green leaves up to 15cm long, covered in soft rusty hairs
• Dark burgundy-red toothbrush-like flowers, opening in late winter and spring, attracting native honeyeaters and insects.

Media enquiries: Levi Joule – 0481 112 074