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Stewardship News -
Rewilding the Wirra Way: Mylor family restores habitat for native wildlife
For some, land ownership provides a livelihood. For others, it offers the chance to create a nature refuge amid the noise of modern times.
For Stephanie and Alex Horner, purchasing their property in Mylor two years ago was an opportunity to drive home a passion for nature in their children.
“I like getting the kids out into the mud, rain, and sun. When Alex and I are weeding and planting in the pouring rain, while they're in their rainwear keeping a keen eye, we can show them that there are no excuses to not get outside,” said Stephanie.
“I love when they want to go outside and hunt for birds instead of wanting to stay indoors. If we plant enough natives and ensure a variety of food (for various species), then it's just more for the kids to look at and enjoy.”
The pair were recently awarded a Grassroots Grant for their Rewilding the Wirra Way Project.
The project, kickstarted by visitations from the threatened southern brown bandicoots to the property, focuses on creating an essential habitat corridor across the property to connect with an area of remnant vegetation.
“Recent confirmed sightings of bandicoots on the property makes this restoration critical,” said Stephanie.
Superb blue wrens and blue-banded bees are also frequent flyers in the region.
“It's our turn to be the guardians of this property and I want it to look and feel better for everyone (including our native species) that comes after us.
“Protecting our bit of land, and the native flora and fauna, is our way of ensuring that the kids always have somewhere safe where they can get back to their peace.”
Since beginning their project, the Horners have found pest plants and animals to be their significant challenge.
“We've got broom and Erica heath, with rabbits and foxes (on the property),” shared Stephanie.
“We must balance pulling the heath out, while also maintaining cover and protection for our bandicoots and other native animals.”
As the family continues to restore essential habitat on the property, the property itself gives back twofold.
“Nothing helps quiet the mind like nature!” said Stephanie.
“Broom won't talk back to me while I rip it out, and watching the plants grow and birds hop is a special kind of happiness.”
