Biodiversity thrives in Wang sandhills

The field tour visited three sandhill sites, comparing healthy, biodiverse sandhills with degraded landscapes, and demonstrating how active management can improve restoration outcomes.

“The buzz from the people at the sandhills was palpable,” participant Nella Smith said.

Renowned ornithologist Phil Maher led the tour, sharing extensive knowledge of the sites and their history.

His insights into connections between vegetation structure and bird life helped participants understand how biodiversity responds when habitat is restored and managed.

The first stop was Zara Sandhill, a remnant site managed under a BCT conservation agreement on private land.

This site provided a benchmark for biodiverse sandhill woodlands when threats are reduced and active management supports natural processes.

At Wanganella sandhill, located on public land along the Cobb Hwy, participants heard a remarkable restoration story.

Twenty-five years ago the site supported a single emu bush. Today, it contains thousands of trees, demonstrating Mr Maher's persistence over decades.

This site showcased an artificial nesting wall created by digging into the sandhill's side.

Within two months of construction, white-backed swallows began nesting in the structure and continue to do so.

Sand goanna nests at the sandhill's base reinforced that when habitat is suitable, native animals and birds will follow.

The final stop at Monimail Sandhill highlighted another innovative approach, with mistletoe deliberately introduced to give the ecosystem a kick-start.

Once established, birds readily dispersed the mistletoe, demonstrating how targeted interventions can accelerate natural recovery.

Prolific growth of quandong and emu bush prompted discussion, with Mr Maher sharing practical advice on growing and establishing these species from seed.

Lead organiser and RGA Landcare coordinator Janet Manzin was delighted with the event's success.

“It was amazing to have so many people coming from far and wide to see these sandhill sites and appreciate the work that has been done over the years to protect and enhance these areas,,” she said.

Nigel Jones from BCT said the tour highlighted successful collaboration between the organisation and RGA Landcare.

“Partnerships like this give BCT great coverage across the landscape and a much deeper understanding of the region's biodiversity and how to restore it,” he said.