A vital conservation site in the Coorong region, delivered by a pioneering partnership with the Ngarrindjeri people, safeguarding endangered habitats and fostering indigenous stewardship.
Location: Coorong Region, South Australia
Area Protected: 200 Hectares
Management: Partnership with the Ngarrindjeri People
Overview
Mount Sandy is an exceptional example of Cassinia Environmental’s commitment to sustainable landscape protection and the enhancement of biodiversity. Located in the Coorong region of South Australia, this property is managed in partnership with the Ngarrindjeri people, the area’s traditional owners. This collaboration, established in early 2019, showcases a unique model for conservation that integrates indigenous knowledge and leadership, boosting local employment and ensuring the long-term preservation of the area’s ecological richness.
Conservation Significance
The landscape of Mount Sandy is a diverse mosaic of coastal shrublands and saline wetlands, areas critical for the survival of numerous threatened species. Despite historical agricultural clearing in much of the Coorong, Mount Sandy preserves high-quality remnant vegetation, setting a benchmark for future revegetation efforts across the region.
Biodiversity
Mount Sandy serves as a sanctuary for a variety of rare and endangered species, including:
- Cleland’s Beard-heath
- Small Nut-heads
- Spiny Spear-grass
- Inland Green-comb Spider Orchid
- Metallic Sun-orchid
- Spotless Crake
- Purple-gaped Honeyeater
These species find refuge within the property, benefiting from the untouched and rehabilitated habitats that support their populations.
Conservation Efforts
The primary conservation goal at Mount Sandy is to improve the extent and condition of Coastal Mallee and Swamp Paperbark vegetation. This is achieved through rigorous management practices, including the control of invasive weeds like bridal creeper, African boxthorn, and skeleton weed. A dedicated pest animal management program also plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the habitat.
Community and Cultural Impact
The partnership between Cassinia Environmental and the Ngarrindjeri people is a cornerstone of the Mount Sandy project. This partnership not only aids in protecting the landscape but also reinforces the cultural connections of the Ngarrindjeri people to their land. It serves as a model for future projects, emphasising the vital role of indigenous partnerships in achieving successful conservation outcomes.
Future Vision
Cassinia Environmental hopes that the Mount Sandy project will inspire similar collaborative efforts across Australia and globally, recognising the essential role of indigenous communities in conservation and land management. By fostering these partnerships, we aim to ensure the enduring protection and restoration of our Australia’s precious and diverse natural habitats.
