Sutherland Shire’s waterways and coastlines are connected by catchments named for each waterway they drain to, each contributing to the Shire’s environmental character and liveability.
The Botany Bay catchment hosts Towra Point Aquatic Reserve, a globally significant wetland supporting bird and marine life. The Georges River and its larges branch, the Woronora River, flow into Botany Bay, these rivers support wildlife, provide places to relax, and are important for water supply and cultural heritage.
The Hacking River winds through the Royal National Park and bushland before entering Port Hacking. Here calm bays, seagrass and mangroves support biodiversity while also popular for boating and water activities.
The Pacific Ocean catchment including Bate Bay is home to Cronulla’s famous surf beaches. They are central to the Shire’s lifestyle and were proudly recognised as Tourism Australia's Beach of the Year 2026.
Our Catchments Map lists each of these major catchments and their sub-catchments.
Ewey Creek sub-catchment
Gwawley Bay sub-catchment
Towra Point Aquatic Reserve
Many of Sutherland Shire’s catchments were once covered in forests. These natural areas helped slow down rainwater, clean it, and keep our waterways healthy. Clearing land and building homes and roads has changed how water now moves through the landscape into creeks, rivers and the ocean.
This can cause problems for water quality, flooding, erosion, and the spread of weeds, especially in built‑up areas. Without proper management, these impacts can harm wildlife, affect community safety, and the recreational and scenic values of our waterways.
We have developed our Catchment and Waterways Strategy. It sets out a coordinated, catchment‑based plan to manage stormwater, flooding, waterways and coastal areas across Sutherland Shire over the next 10 years.
