Fighting extinction
Ngintait Traditional Owners lived on and managed the land that includes Neds Corner for many thousands of years. Following colonisation and dispossession of the land from its traditional custodians, the property was hit hard by sheep and cattle grazing, and cropping. Trust for Nature purchased the property in 2002 and under its management, in collaboration with volunteers, donors and other supporters, the landscape of Neds Corner Station has been transformed. Its significant cultural sites are being protected and its native vegetation restored through working with Traditional Owners.
Trust for Nature acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Neds Corner Station, the First Peoples of the Millewa Mallee.
Perhaps one of the most exciting developments since Trust for Nature’s purchase of Neds Corner is that after many years of ongoing predator control efforts, the establishment of a 500 hectare predator free exclosure will enable the Trust to explore the potential to reintroduce regionally extinct animals to the property.
The exclosure, together with the proposed establishment of woodland cover across 10,000 hectares, will result in a thriving example of conservation best practice and what can be achieved through partnership.
Recovery of riverine woodlands and Mallee/semi-arid woodlands will be extremely important to secure the future of threatened species like the Regent Parrot and other precious wildlife.
Continued focus on predator and weed control and encouraging habitat growth will go a long way towards reviving the property’s ecosystem.
Restoration efforts have helped stabilise soils, encouraged reestablishment of other flora and has provided habitat for birds, reptiles and a range of small mammals.
In recent years Trust for Nature and Ngintait Traditional Owners have worked together to protect cultural heritage and undertake significant conservation works.
Thanks to partner funds, Neds Corner is an attraction for nearby farmers and researchers from institutions and special interest groups.