WILDLIFE REFUGE SCHEME OF OPERATIONS FOR

“PATANGA” – 1033 DARKWOOD RD THORA NSW 2454

1. Preserve the regenerating rainforest, wet and dry schlerophyll forests and riparian zones by encouraging natural regeneration of local indigenous species.

2. A commitment to control feral animals.

3. A commitment to control weeds in areas of native vegetation.

4. Maintain fire trails around perimeter of property, mobile fire-fighting unit and fire hydrants in situ. A “no control burns” policy except when requested by rural firefighting authorities.

5. No grazing of domestic livestock within regenerating areas.

6. No firewood collection within regenerating areas.

WILDLIFE REFUGE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR “PATANGA”

1. The farm (“Patanga”) is divided into three main areas :-

a. Private eg house sites and gardens

b. Agricultural eg cow and goat paddocks, and flats (a + b = 48% of the property)

c. Regenerating eg the creek, riverbank, gullies and steep hillsides (52% of the property).

2. Within regenerating areas we have a commitment to :-

a. Protect and restore the natural environment, which includes both the control of introduced plants and animals, and an agreement not to have cats or dogs on the property (excepting visiting animals which are suitably restrained).

b. To recognize and accommodate natural processes.

c. To provide for ecologically sustainable development and use of resources.

3. To provide a balance between human settlement and wildlife corridors.

In becoming a Wildlife refuge we are making a public declaration of our common commitment to the protection of our endangered and/or diminishing local flora and fauna.

“Patanga” was a cattle & corn & potato growing property until the early 1970’s. It has also been logged at various times. Its exact history is unknown. The non-agricultural areas have been regenerating for at least 30 years. It has a permanent creek (Die Happy Creek) and a permanent river (Bellinger River) but all stock is fenced out of waterways.

Biodiversity breakdown –

13% - Rainforest with permanent creek

15% - Wet Schlerophyll forest

15% - Dry Schlerophyll

5% - Riverine

52% - Agricultural