Glenaroua melds rigorous habitat restoration with sustainable agriculture to protect critical species like the Golden Sun Moth in Central Victoria’s largest remnant forest patch.
Location: 104 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, Central Victoria
Area Protected: 338 Hectares
Management: Cassinia Environmental
Overview
Located in Central Victoria, the Glenaroua site covers 338 hectares and represents the largest remnant forest patch in the region. Acquired by Cassinia Environmental in 2016, this site features a rich blend of Box-Ironbark forest and native grasslands. Despite significant erosion challenges, Glenaroua maintains a robust mix of native species and has become a focal point for ambitious conservation projects aimed at habitat protection, land rehabilitation, and revegetation.
Conservation Significance
The site is particularly noted for protecting 200 hectares of native grasslands, which serve as critical habitat for the critically endangered Golden Sun Moth. Additionally, Glenaroua supports a dynamic range of ecosystems, making it suitable for diverse conservation initiatives, including sustainable agriculture and the conservation of other endangered species like the Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater.
Biodiversity
Glenaroua is a haven for multiple protected species, including:
- Golden Sun Moth (Critically Endangered)
- Swift Parrot (Critically Endangered)
- Regent Honeyeater (Critically Endangered)
- Brush-tailed Squirrel Glider (Endangered)
- Western Golden-Tip (Endangered)
- Brown Toadlet (Rare)
- Rye-Beetle Grass (Rare)
- Phascogale (Rare)
Conservation Efforts
Significant efforts are underway to combat the challenges posed by invasive species and erosion. Strategies include comprehensive pest control for foxes, stray cats, and various invasive weeds, alongside an erosion management plan developed in collaboration with Agriculture Victoria and the local Landcare group. These efforts are critical for restoring the ecological integrity of the site and preventing further degradation.
Community and Ecological Integration
Glenaroua exemplifies how conservation can integrate with local agricultural practices to create a sustainable environment that benefits both nature and the community. By working closely with local groups and leveraging state support, Cassinia Environmental aims to restore this significant landscape to a thriving habitat for critically endangered species and a model for conservation practices.
Future Vision
The vision for Glenaroua is a completely rehabilitated landscape that not only secures substantial habitat for the Golden Sun Moth but also preserves the native forest and restores the eroded waterways. Cassinia Environmental envisions this project as a blueprint for balancing conservation with agricultural productivity, fostering a resilient ecosystem that can sustain itself and the community for generations to come.
