Caring for Country and Community: South Coast NRM Update
South Coast NRM continues to work alongside communities, landholders, partners and Traditional Owners to protect and restore the unique landscapes of Western Australia’s south coast. Grounded in respect for First Nations peoples as the spiritual and cultural custodians of this land, our work reflects a shared commitment to caring for Country—now and into the future.
Working Together for Biodiversity
Over the past month, collaboration has been front and centre. South Coast NRM partnered in the Building Private Land Conservation in Western Australia Symposium, highlighting the vital role private land plays in conserving biodiversity and cultural heritage. As Australia works toward protecting 30% of land by 2030, our focus remains firmly on safeguarding ecosystems, species and habitats—not just meeting targets.
This philosophy is reflected across our region, where agriculture and nature coexist. From thriving birdlife along farmland and bushland edges to the long-standing efforts of Landcare groups, it’s clear that thoughtful land management delivers benefits for both people and nature.
On-Ground Action Across the Region
A wide range of projects are underway, delivering tangible environmental outcomes:
- Future Ready South Coast is progressing pasture trials, fencing of remnant vegetation, and farm dam enhancements, with expressions of interest now open for landholders keen to participate.
- The Fitz–Stirling Priority Place Project has completed installation and maintenance of artificial hollows for Black Cockatoos, with early signs of breeding success already observed.
- Urban Possum Project activities have seen over 3,100 native plants established across Albany to support Western Ringtail Possums, with dog fence rebates now available to reduce wildlife conflict.
- The Lake Gore Project has delivered riparian revegetation, fencing to protect river habitats, and new interpretive signage to help the community better understand this Ramsar-listed wetland.
Building Knowledge and Capacity
South Coast NRM is also investing in long-term learning and resilience:
- The Know Your Southern Soils project is underway, combining soil sampling with upcoming demonstrations to promote best-practice soil health management.
- The National Soil Monitoring Plan has commenced, contributing to a nationally consistent picture of soil condition across Australia.
- Our Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators have been busy connecting with farmers across the region, sharing innovative, climate-smart and nature-based solutions.
Sharing Success and Learning Together
Staff and partners recently gathered at the Healthy Estuaries WA Conference, celebrating four years of statewide achievements improving estuary health. South Coast NRM also contributed to the 9th National NRM Knowledge Conference in Cairns, sharing local project learnings and building connections with practitioners from across Australia.
Citizen Science and Seasonal Wonders
During Djilba, the Noongar season of conception, trained volunteers and Indigenous ranger teams have been surveying Southern Right Whales along the coast. Their efforts have already recorded dozens of adults and calves, providing critical data to support conservation of this endangered species.
Together, these projects demonstrate the power of partnerships, community involvement and respect for Country. South Coast NRM looks forward to continuing this work across our beautiful and diverse region.
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