BioDiversity Legacy (BDL) is engaging with a growing number of landholders on the Far South Coast of New South Wales who are interested in exploring how BDL’s land protection pathways can not only safeguard individual properties but help communities connect their landscapes and expand their conservation ambitions.
In October, BDL Communities & Stewardship Manager, Robyn Edwards, visited a remarkable 27-ha property adjoining Tilba Tilba Lake in the Gulaga/Eurobodalla region that has been lovingly restored over the past 45 years by members of the Tilba Lake Community (TLC).
The property, once cleared and degraded, has been transformed into a thriving haven for biodiversity, with over 200 bird species recorded, a healthy Diamond Python population, returning Long-nosed Bandicoots and nationally endangered species, including the Glossy Black-Cockatoo and Hooded Plover.
During the visit, Robyn joined Local Land Services NSW and TLC members Geoff Pryor, Noel Pratt, Dr Liz Dennis and her son, Dr Clancy Dennis, in a wide-ranging conversation about the property’s natural and cultural values, land transition pathways and the Biosphere Region proposal originally developed by the Tilba Environment Landcare Group as part of the Tilba Chamber of Commerce strategy review in the wake of the 2019–20 bushfires.
“A big part of our role at BioDiversity Legacy is guiding communities through a progression – from connection and learning to agency, active hope and, ultimately, positive, lasting conservation pathways,” says Robyn.
“It was inspiring to meet the landholders, learn about the Yuin people’s connection to Country and see how the Tilba property has been brought back to life. We’ll do what we can to support this group and the wider community to pursue their landscape vision.”
Photo right: Shareholders of the Tilba Lake Community Pty Ltd property enjoyed conversations with BioDiversity Legacy’s Robyn Edwards. Left to right: Noel and Geoff Pryor, Robyn Edwards, Liz Dennis and son Clancy.
