As we reflect on the year nearing its end, South Coast NRM is proud to share a snapshot of the progress, partnerships and community-driven action that have shaped a significant year for natural resource management across our region.
Working on Country, Together
South Coast NRM continues to recognise and respect that we live and work on the traditional lands of First Nations peoples. Guided by respect for culture, knowledge and Country, we remain committed to working in genuine partnership to support culturally and ecologically sustainable land management.
Strong Momentum and Regional Impact
Throughout 2025, South Coast NRM’s core projects gained strong momentum through the Australian Government’s Regional Delivery Partner Panel. Our work has focused on climate-smart agriculture, wetland restoration, and protecting threatened species such as the Western Ground Parrot, Noisy Scrub Bird and Gilbert’s Potoroo/Ngilkat. Positive outcomes are already emerging through close collaboration with landholders, community groups, Aboriginal Corporations, industry and government partners.
Caring for Landscapes and Wildlife
Across the region, on-ground conservation has been front and centre. Highlights include:
- Fitz–Stirling Priority Place pest control and monitoring across more than 90,000 hectares, with early signs of success including the return of species such as the Chuditch.
- Urban possum conservation in Albany, with more than 3,100 native plants established to improve habitat connectivity and new dog fence rebates helping reduce wildlife conflict.
- Wetland restoration works commencing at the Whidby Street Basin as part of the Yakamia Creek project, transforming urban infrastructure into living wetlands for people and wildlife.
- PEAT Southwest, a collaborative peatland conservation project strengthening understanding and management of these unique ecosystems across southwestern Australia.
Connecting Communities to Nature
Community engagement remained a cornerstone of our work. Volunteers and Indigenous rangers completed a successful Southern Right Whale survey season, documenting more than 250 sightings and supporting respectful whale-watching practices. Events such as the Lake Gore Film launch, school and community workshops, and citizen science opportunities like the Balijup Eco-Camp helped connect people to local landscapes and biodiversity.
Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
Our Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators worked closely with farmers, students and grower groups, delivering practical workshops on soil health, grazing management and livestock handling. From soil testing with agriculture students to Grazing Matcher producer groups, the focus has been on building resilient, productive farming systems that support healthy landscapes and estuaries.
Looking Ahead
As we head into the festive season, South Coast NRM thanks our staff, partners, volunteers and communities for their dedication and collaboration. Together, we are building strong foundations for the future of the South Coast’s land, water, biodiversity and people and we look forward to continuing this important work in the year ahead.
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