Wilson's Creek Huonbrook Landcare
Border Ranges
Overview
Our group was formed in 1994 and membership consists of mainly landholders from Wilson’s Creek, Huonbrook and Wanganui area west of Mullumbimby. The area is surrounded by both Nightcap and Mt Jerusalem National Parks with Goonengerry National Park in close proximity to the project sites. Restoration works have been undertaken on a variety of sites, and as our valleys are in a water catchment, most work has focussed on the riparian areas and on high value conservation vegetation. In some sections of the valleys adjoining landholders work together and this has enhanced connectivity additionally a joint partnership has been formed with Byron council on public land. There are many recordings of both Threatened and Vulnerable species of fauna and flora in the area.
What we do
As many properties either adjoin a National Park or are within close proximity to a National Park weed management is a vital component of any works undertaken in the area. Eradication of lantana will be a vital component within this project. Other weeds have been identified such as Madeira Vine and Small Leaf Privet.
Information is distributed to all households in the valleys through the group’s regular quarterly newsletter, raising awareness. This includes information about significant weeds which have been mapped in the area and methods for their eradication or control.
An awareness raising field day, to showcase recent work undertaken on a property in the area.
What we have achieved
Improvement of terrestrial vegetation providing habitat and connectivity on about 100 Ha.- Improving riparian vegetation along approx 10 km of creek bank.
- Improving water quality and aquatic habitat. Our creeks are known to have Eastern Cod; some have been monitored in Cooper’s creek.
- Water testing has been undertaken since June 2006 at three sites in Wilson’s Creek and three sites in Coopers Creek.
- Providing employment opportunities for youth and environmental contractors through participation in Green Corps projects, Work for the Dole projects, Conservation Volunteers Australia and independent contractors.
- Building partnerships with local government, state and federal government agencies/departments, Landcare groups, local community, Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land council, local school, fire brigade, community hall, Rotary and local businesses.
- We have been involved in several Planet Ark National Tree days when the community planted many trees.
- We have received Tidy Town awards for Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Conservation Award in 2004, 2006, 2007.
- We received an Environmental award from Byron Shire Council for conservation work.
- The Athena Foundation & Byron Shire Council presented us with an Earth Champion Award.
- Our group relies on committed volunteers for all administration, management, newsletter and website activities.
Contact
Wilson's Creek Huonbrook Landcare
Tel: 02 6684 0242
Email:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Web: www.wilsonscreeklandcare.mullum.com.au
