Summer Update

New developments, conservation expansions and wildlife tales, stay updated! 🌿🌳

View this email in your browser HEY THERE NATURE LOVERS! Discover the latest from the Corymbia Biodiversity Project and Banyula Conservation Reserve! From expanding our conservation efforts to joining the Wildlife Land Trust family, there's plenty to celebrate - like Dad and Son emu returning to Banyula! Plus, get insights from our recent Pest Predators Workshop and learn about the mischievous antics of our resident Brush Tailed Possum. INTRODUCING CORYMBIA BIODIVERSITY PROJECT We are excited to announce Corymbia Biodiversity Project - it’s our new operating name! Not only does it encompass our work at the Banyula Conservation Reserve, but extends beyond our immediate boundaries as we embark on landscape-scale conservation efforts to increase the survival rates of all flora and fauna in the Clarence Valley. While we will be keeping the property name ‘Banyula’ for our flagship conservation reserve in the Pillar Valley, Corymbia Biodiversity Project better conveys our overarching purpose and emphasises our commitment to the vital cause of conservation in the region. We are incredibly excited about this new chapter in our journey, and we look forward to your continued support and collaboration as we work towards our shared goals. Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting impact on the biodiversity and ecological health of our community. PEST PREDATORS WORKSHOP The Pest Predator Workshop at Banyula late last month served as a crucial platform for exchanging ideas, sharing insights, and exploring possibilities for collaborative action in the fight to protect our vulnerable wildlife in the Upper Coldstream Biodiversity Hotspot - the Pillar Valley area of the Clarence Valley. It was heartening for all involved to witness the diverse expertise and perspectives brought to the table, highlighting the community's love for nature and the support from hardworking agency representatives and environmental groups. Our special guest James Templeton, who came all the way from the Conservation Ecology Centre in Victoria, shared insights and location based strategies for feral pig eradication in the Otways. He showcased their successes in research, pig eradication and stakeholder engagement which was super inspiring to hear, sparking inspiring discussion. Joining the many landholders at the workshop there were also representatives from Local land Services, Environment NSW, Department of Primary Industries, National Parks and Forestry Corporation NSW, as well as environmental groups such as the Odonata Foundation (Vic), NSW Nature Conservation Council, Lions Environmental , Clarence Landcare and Land for Wildlife (CEC). Building on the momentum generated during the workshop, there is excitement about establishing a local group dedicated to working in a more integrated and coordinated manner. This initiative aligns perfectly with the collective goal of enhancing understanding of effective feral pest monitoring and management, furthering the protection of threatened species such as the adorable Eastern Chestnut Mouse and the beloved Coastal Emu in the Pillar Valley and beyond. SPECIES IN THE SPOTLIGHT In a recent incident, Banyula’s resident Brush Tailed Possum managed to pilfer almost an entire crop of mangoes from the orchard. But lucky for us, Tony protected what he could with lights and noise, only sharing a few with this cheeky creature and lots with the team, who fully appreciate this abundant summer crop - thanks Tony! While their love for mangoes may cause an inconvenience, it's important for us to remember the vital role Brush Tailed Possums play in our ecosystems. As herbivores, they contribute to seed dispersal and pollination, helping to maintain the health and diversity of native flora. (Above) When you steal so many mangoes you can hardly walk! (Above) Sue installing ‘lunchboxes’ for the owls Possums also serve as important prey for native predators such as owls, which is why the Nature Conservation Council's Large Forest Owl Project has installed hundreds of nest boxes for marsupials like these to live in around the Clarence Valley. Through appreciation and understanding, we can learn to live harmoniously alongside these important creatures, recognising their value in our natural world. So, while they may have a penchant for mangoes, we should still hold a special place in our hearts for the Brush Tailed Possum. A VISIT FROM STEVE WILSON His field guides have been jammed in nature lovers' pockets for over 30 years and last week we were fortunate to have Steve and his wife Marilyn visit us at Banyula. During their stay, Steve demonstrated best practices for surveying reptiles and other small creatures. Of particular interest was the innovative cardboard 'bark' technique, ingeniously designed to mimic natural habitat for lizards, insects, and bats. This simple approach not only provides a safe haven for wildlife but also minimises disturbance to real tree bark during surveys – a true stroke of genius! SEASON GREETINGS In the natural world, seasons don't adhere to a calendar and the signs of activity are evident. The Glossy Black Cockatoos have begun their return, their distinctive calls echoing through the trees so it's about time the Glossy Squad head back out to hunt for the elusive nesting trees. On Banyula, a father and son emu duo, including a hatchling from last year, are captured on camera cruising through in search of food and mates - a sure sign that nesting season is approaching. With the Coastal Emu population dwindling to fewer than 50 individuals, rigorous monitoring efforts are underway. Chris Thompson's ongoing research with the University of New England delves into understanding the emu’s seasonal behaviour across various ecosystems, including man-made and natural landscapes. Additionally, Chris is trying to find the answer to important questions relating to potential barriers from roads in relation to emus accessing important habitat - which unfortunately often end in road strikes and fatalities. Meanwhile, Micah, the local drone guru, equipped with a newly gifted expensive spotlight funded by Lions Environmental Clarence Valley, continues to monitor the emus, and this new advanced technology aids in spotting not only emus at night but feral pigs as well! Together, Micah's new spotlight and drone surveillance, along with Chris’ research, deepen our understanding and movements of this highly mobile and wide-ranging species, paving the way for more effective conservation strategies, ensuring a brighter future for these magnificent birds. BANYULA, A NEW WILDLIFE LAND TRUST SANCTUARY Last month, Banyula Conservation Reserve was welcomed into the growing number of Wildlife Land Trust sanctuaries increasing their number of hectares managed for wildlife by 465!  Just like Land for Wildlife, our inclusion into this network continues to grow biolinks across the country by connecting conservation-minded landholders creating important nature corridors for our fauna and fauna to flourish. Check out Banyula on the Humane Society Website here  along with the long list of WLT Sanctuaries that you can visit around Australia. Copyright (C) 2024 Corymbia Biodiversity Project. All rights reserved. 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