News, Conservation and Engagement - June

There are plans to log a total of 11 coupes of mature forest in the headwaters of the Little Dargo River, in an area of state forest next to the Alpine National Park. This area is especially important because it has not been burnt in recent decades. Friends of the Earth urge concerned Victorians to help protect the Little Dargo.
Following the success of its first six months’ operation, bookings for the Grampians Peaks Trail have now opened for the period 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023.
Many walkers use apps to identify birds, flora and fauna. Less well-known is The Waterbug App. As well as helping to identify waterbugs, the updated version allows users to complete a survey to monitor the health of their local waterways or wetlands.
Great Walk’s ‘Wilderness Photographer of the Year’ competition, which celebrates images of the great outdoors from anywhere around the world, is now open. Entries close 24 October.
BTAC reports that Jan’s Hut in the Thomson Valley, which was significantly damaged by a falling tree in 2021, has been repaired by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and its contractors. The restoration, using older iron, was done with great sensitivity for the hut’s heritage value and appearance – a fantastic job.
Images: Friends of the Earth Melbourne; The Waterbug App; DELWP