Bordering the Meander River, Deloraine’s Wildwood is a 14-acre, Council-owned, flood-plain reserve that has become the focus of significant, community-driven restoration efforts. The Wildwood Landcare Group Committee, established in August 2023 and now an incorporated body, has been at the forefront of these initiatives, aiming to enhance and restore this area back to its natural beauty for the use of locals and visitors alike. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a leash for the protection of native wildlife and habitat.
Before European settlement, the Wildwood was thought to be a rainforest area with native vegetation such as swamp gums, paper bark, tea tree, dogwood, myrtle, native olive and a range of swamp grasses, sedges and ferns. Around 1880, the site was used as the town’s picnic ground under the patronage of a wealthy local commercial family. At that time, non-indigenous species such as Oak, Elm and Sycamore were most probably introduced. Other species, such as box and hawthorn, may have naturally occurred by seeding from birds, animals, wind and regular flooding. The site has had a number of names, including Westhorpe Picnic Ground, Myrtle Hole, and more recently, the Wildwood.
It is currently home to a diverse array of native animals, including pademelons, possums, bandicoots, quolls, native water rat, platypus and numerous bird, reptile, amphibian and insect species. The restoration efforts aim to enhance the habitats of these local fauna to ensure they can survive and thrive.
The Wildwood Landcare Group Committee, in conjunction with the Meander Valley Council, developed a comprehensive ten-year Master Plan to guide and prioritise all ongoing work. The plan includes a range of initiatives aimed at further enhancing biodiversity through the continued removal of invasive species, the planting of more native vegetation, and the creation of additional wildlife habitats. The group also plans to improve access to the area, making it easier for people to visit and enjoy the natural beauty of Wildwood. Current plans are underway to maintain the walking track, and install public seating in targeted locations.
One of the primary tasks has been to tackle the wide-spread, invasive species that threaten the local ecosystem. Sycamore, in particular, as well as hawthorn, box and crack willow have been particularly problematic. Volunteers have been working tirelessly to remove these invasive plants and replace them with native trees, shrubs, and grasses.
To date, approximately 800 native species have been planted and continue to be maintained.
The Wildwood Landcare Group Committee has been the grateful recipient of various grants, help and donations from Rotary, Bendigo Bank, Landcare Tasmania, Meander Valley Council and several local businesses, which has allowed the purchase of much needed equipment, native plants and to cover administrative costs such as insurance and incorporation fees.
In addition to physical restoration work, public tours by species experts have been held to highlight the importance of native habitat, the threats posed by invasive species, and the benefits of biodiversity. These educational initiatives are crucial for fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world, particularly among younger generations.
The Wildwood project is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. Through the dedication and hard work of the Wildwood Landcare Group and its volunteers, this exquisite area is being transformed into a thriving natural habitat.
If you’re interested in contributing to the Wildwood restoration efforts, there are several ways to get involved. Working bees are held every Tuesday and third Saturday of the month. You can additionally give support by becoming a member of the Wildwood Landcare Group. Your contribution will go a long way in ensuring the success of bringing the Wildwood back to its full potential.
Contact Wildwood Landcare Committee’s President, Peter Hansen, 0419 025 792, or email
wildwood@landcaretas.org.au
