Our Bushland
Celebrating the biodiversity rich bushland of Cessnock-Kurri area.
OurBushland
Welcome to #OurBushland! This site promotes the unique biodiversity and cultural values of the remnant forests and woodlands of the Lower Hunter, within the Cessnock Biodiversity Area that includes Cessnock and Kurri-Kurri forests.
Remnant bushland in the area contains amazing biodiversity values, including refuge for 65 threatened entities: 46 fauna and 10 flora species, and 10 endangered ecological communities.
The biodiversity is so unique, it's been listed as internationally as a Lower Hunter Valley Key Biodiversity Area for it's outstanding ecological integrity.
Of the fauna found in Our Bushland, two critically endangered species on the point of extinction. The Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot are regular inhabitants of the land, and rely on the native vegetation and landscapes for food, nesting and shelter sites.
The OurBushland page is a partnership between many local organisations, who are passionate about promoting the values of this area. We also work in collaboration to support restoration activities and protect habitat, and contribute to recovery actions for listed species.
Through the partnership, the group has run several events, including the Our Bushland Festival in 2022, and several BioBlitz (Citizen science fauna and flora surveys) activities at Poppet Head Park, Kitchener. Check out this years Festival event
Follow us on Facebook @OurBushland and help us protect this amazing place!
Do you live in the OurBushland area? Here's a few simple things you can do:
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Join a local Bushcare/ Landcare Group
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Remove or control weeds on your property
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Take rubbish to the tip, or use your green bins for green waste.
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Report any sightings of Regent Honeyeater or Swift Parrot (hopefully with photos!) 1800 621 056.
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Manage pests such as fox, feral cat or wild pig at your place.
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Plant your garden with local native species.
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Protect trees with mistletoe
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Report any illegal activities such as dumping/arson.
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Go on a bushwalk, bird watch and enjoy the benefits of the area.
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Spread the word about the amazing #OurBushland!
CULTURE AND COUNTRY
The traditional owners in this part of the Hunter Valley are the Wonnarua People. Their stories of Country and their connection to the land go back over 60,000 years, when the Creation Spirits began forming this unique landscape. Wonnarua People saw all of the sacred rivers, mountains and animals created with Baiame coming to earth to teach all Lore in order for Wonnarua People to sustain life on the land, and carefully manage their environment.
When Baiame returned to the sky, he took on the earthly form of Kawal to watch over and protect the people. Kawal is the magnificent Wedge-tailed Eagle, who continues to watch today.
We welcome you to Country on which this festival will be held on, to learn more about the environment, culture and history of the Wonnarua People.
Kawal-by Rachel Klyve