In 2021, we embarked on an exciting habitat corridor project on private land. Let’s come together on the 8th of September to look at the planting, spruce up the stakes and guards, and enjoy a delightful lunch. We will also have our information table set up, complete with free guides and books.
We want to talk to any landholders who are interested in discussing participation in a future deer control program, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us on the day.
Landcare members Eleanor and Albi attended the Malmsbury Deer Forum recently and here is their report:
It was an extremely informative, professionally run event. Feral deer are an increasingly evolving threat and an understandably hot topic in our area.
There are currently 4 deer varieties in Victoria:
-Sambar deer -Red deer -Fallow deer -Hog deer
The north east of the state is inundated with Sambar deer to the extent eradication is no longer an option. The deer in our area are Fallow deer. They are at a level where they may still be able to be controlled to ensure we do not allow number to get to those in the NE.
This is a map of the current distribution.
Screenshot
There are environmental, economic and community impacts caused by deer. Feral deer NEED to be reported so the various authorities are able to monitor and manage.
We can all do this very quickly and easily via the Feral Scan app.
We, as landholders need to control feral deer now to contain the spread. There are professional deer controllers available to all of us, often they do not charge as they can use the deer for venison. They are extremely professional, ethical and well trained. Ideally, groups of neighbouring landholders can band together and coordinate a shoot. This way a larger area can be covered.
We need to act. Deer are not cute, do not belong in our landscape and reap massive damage. If anyone is interested in a community gathering to further discuss options, please get in touch.
There is a massive amount of information and assistance available. A good starting point is: www.vdccn.org.au
Thanks to the volunteers that helped with the annual nest box monitoring. Although we didn’t see any Brush-tailed Phascogales this year, there was evidence of fresh nests in some of the boxes.
Our biggest surprise was about 8 Yellow-footed antechinus using a bat box!
Walmer South Nature Conservation Reserve – Species Data
Species
Numbers by Year
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Brush-tailed Phascogale
1
0
2
4
0
Sugar Glider
13
12
22
13
20
Common Brush-tailed Possum
10
4
1
6
4
Bats
11
9
10
18
12
Other
0
0
0
0
8
Notes: other in 2024 refers to Yellow-foot Antechinus in a bat box
Although there are small Phascogale numbers, those numbers don’t reflect the fresh nests that are present without a Phascogale present
Thanks to John and Emma for having us on their Muckleford property yesterday for a sticky beak tour for our members.
Muckleford Landcare members John and Emma self-funded restoration on their 20 acre property. In 2019 they planted (with help) 2,000 native trees and shrubs. The success of these plantings is outstanding – the success seems to be through deep ripping, plants have a better chance of survival because their roots can reach moisture, and natural regeneration also occurs in the rip lines.
Emma is going to be removing the plant guards this weekend, you can join her, and are welcome to keep the guards for your own planting. Contact Beth.
We are starting the year with a small event – a sticky beak tour of a member’s property to see what they’ve planted and what the restoration journey looks like.
Here is the date for your diaries – Sunday 14th April, 1pm-3pm – John and Emma’s place. Afternoon tea will be provided.
In 2023 we completed a project that aims to create habitat corridors on private land, and connections to roadsides. This habitat is important for supporting native species.
We found four Muckleford/Walmer landholders who wanted to plant on their properties, and whose properties are adjacent to roadsides that are missing vegetation. With this project we got to help members, but also to support habitat linkages on our roadsides.
Everyone planted 500 trees and shrubs, but will receive an extra 150 each this year to add to their corridors.
Thanks to the NCCMA for funding this terrific community project.
After four months, plantings are looking good with landholders taking care of them
Following the AGM and memorial to David Griffiths, here is our committee for 2024:
President: Neville Cooper Vice President: David Griffiths (in memorium) Secretary: Beth Mellick Treasurer: Eleanor Wright Ordinary members: Chris Mackenzie, Richard Mann, Michael Billington, Brona Murray, David Mallard
If you know any residents of Muckleford or Walmer who might want to join our group, here is our membership form.
The Muckleford Community Centre is hosting a free BBQ and all Muckleford residents are invited. Get to know your neighbours and celebrate the beautiful Muckleford community.
Saturday 9th December, 4pm onwards.
Bring a plate of sweets or savory and drinks. You can RSVP numbers via email to mucklefordhall@gmail.com or call 0402 389 171.
Muckleford Community Centre is at 338 Muckleford-Walmer Road.
mucklefordlandcare.org 