BREAKING: A crucial conservation partnership has just been announced to protect the unique wildlife of the Wimmera region, including the critically endangered South-east Red-tailed Black-cockatoo. Conservation organization Trust for Nature is teaming up with Bank Australia to manage a vital 2,117 hectare conservation reserve located on Wotjobaluk Country in Western Victoria.
This significant collaboration aims to preserve the habitat that is home to numerous native species. The conservation reserve comprises four properties: Salvana, Minimay, Booroop-ki, and Ozenkadanook. The majority of this area is permanently protected from development through a conservation covenant.
Amelia Houghton, Director of Regional Delivery at Trust for Nature, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed partnership: “We’re thrilled to be continuing our partnership with Bank Australia to care for this incredibly important habitat.” She emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with First Peoples and supporting their aspirations for Country.
Bank Australia proudly holds the title of being the first bank in Australia to maintain a conservation reserve. According to Jane Kern, Head of Impact Management, “Our partnership with Trust for Nature ensures that the reserve continues to be a thriving and collaborative example of science-based conservation in action.”
Since 2008, Bank Australia has committed to the management and growth of the conservation reserve, which protects vital woodlands and heathlands, including the critically endangered Bulokes and Desert Stringybarks, the primary food source for the black-cockatoos.
The reserve is not just a sanctuary for the black-cockatoos; it also shelters other threatened species such as the Diamond Firetail, Fiery Jewell Butterfly, and Coloured Spider-orchid. Over 280 species of animals have been recorded on the reserve, with numbers continuing to rise as restoration efforts progress.
Located near Little Desert National Park, this conservation initiative plays a crucial role in connecting habitats across the landscape, creating essential corridors for wildlife movement.
Trust for Nature has actively supported Bank Australia in enhancing the reserve’s habitat through initiatives like weed and rabbit control, habitat monitoring, and the installation of nest boxes and revegetation efforts.
This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for wildlife conservation in the region, promising a brighter future for endangered species in the Wimmera. As this partnership unfolds, communities and conservationists alike will be watching closely for further developments.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this urgent story on the preservation of Wimmera’s precious wildlife. The time for action is now!
