When Ron Robinson moved onto his Wunghnu property in 1980, he faced a remarkably different Nine Mile Creek to the one he enjoys today. Most native vegetation on the banks had been cleared, his stock had access to the creek for watering, and the property was rarely frequented by native animals.
When Ron Robinson moved onto his Wunghnu property in 1980, he faced a remarkably different Nine Mile Creek to the one he enjoys today. Most native vegetation on the banks had been cleared, his stock had access to the creek for watering, and the property was rarely frequented by native animals.
“It couldn’t have got much worse…bare earth…” says Ron, referring to the complete lack of vegetation on the creek banks. But, largely thanks to a Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Waterway Grant he received in 2000, Ron has been witness to some remarkable improvements.
Through the grant, Ron fenced off the creek bank and developed two off-creek dams to help irrigate pastures and water stock. This helped keep stock away from the creek banks giving the trees a chance to grow. Since then, Ron has been witness to a dramatic improvement in the health of the creek and the property, as he now has more native trees and animals and less erosion on the property.
“There’s terrific cover...masses of young red gum…there’s really good cover,” says Ron. “I’ve no doubt there are also more kangaroos and birdlife species. The golden whistler comes seasonally as well as a lot of other birds…and they nest in the native trees.” The Grant covered the majority of the works undertaken on the waterway, although Ron paid a contractor to help him build the fence. According to Ron, this was only a fraction of the total cost.
Now, after seeing the fruits of his labour on the property, Ron is more than happy to recommend Waterway Grants to other landholders. “It’s a heck of a good incentive if anyone’s interested in regeneration.’’ Asked if he’ll be doing more, he’s quick to reply. “To be honest, I’m running out of spots. If I plant too much more people might think I’m going around the twist!”
For further information regarding a Waterway Grant please contact the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority on 5822 2288.
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