The property is located along an old railway line at the end of a ridge that drops into the La Trobe River valley. Like much of Gippsland, it is very hilly. The western side of the property was once totally cleared and has reforested over time with self-seeded Acacia and native cherries, though some of these are now dying off. Due to poor management, the steep forest areas infested with blackberries and weeds are likely best left as native forests.
Land Heritage
Aboriginal heritage in Victoria is deeply rooted in the connection of the Indigenous peoples to the land and waterways. The Gunai (Kurnai) people, who have lived in Gippsland for tens of thousands of years, maintain a strong cultural presence with rich traditions, languages, and spiritual practices. Their profound connection to the natural environment is evident in the significant sites found throughout the region.
The land falls within a gap in the Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) map. While the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) is the RAP for much of the surrounding region, there are areas where no specific RAP has been designated. We will need to to proactively seek out local Indigenous knowledge and work closely with the broader community to ensure that cultural heritage is respected and preserved.
Part of the land, particularly at the head of Hemp Hills Creek, is identified as a site of cultural significance. Waterways in Gippsland, including those on our property, hold immense importance in Aboriginal culture. They are considered life-giving and spiritually significant, often featuring in creation stories and historical events. Protecting these waterways is crucial for maintaining the cultural heritage and spiritual wellbeing of the Indigenous communities.
By understanding and respecting the cultural significance of our land, we can contribute to the preservation of the rich history and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of Victoria. Engaging with local Indigenous communities and integrating their knowledge into our land management practices is key to maintaining this heritage.
Details of the land
The farm boasts a unique shape, aligning with the old Drouin to Noojee rail line that was decommissioned in the 1950s. The railway, which once ran along the north west boundary of the property, featured a large trestle bridge across the creek/valley. This bridge, unfortunately, burned down in the 1950s, contributing to the decision to decommission the railway.
The property at the end of a ridge that drops into the La Trobe river valley at Piedmont and the forest on the northern side are continuations of a strip of forest that runs all the way up to the state forest, which connects with the Baw Baw ranges.
The western side of the property was cleared completely last century, and in the years since the railway was decommissioned, it has slowly reforested itself. In some areas, there are some older eucalypts. Still, for the most part, this western forest is self-seeded, Acacia and native cherries, and we note that these have spread significantly over the last 15 to 30 years as the farm has been let go and not maintained as an active, productive farm. These areas in the Western Forest seem old and at end of life as many are dying off. The earliest detailed satellite image that we have is from 2010, which shows the Western Forest about half the size and it is today.
The forest areas, with their steep slopes ranging from 25 to 35°, present a unique opportunity for conservation. While the farm, including the forests, has been neglected and poorly managed, the thick blackberries and weeds that currently dominate the forest can be cleared to allow for native revegetation to thrive.
Detailed maps and contours
Photos taken from these location in the direction of the arrows
Land History—Warragul to Noojee Railway
1890’s Construction
Railway in use in first half of 20th Century
End of the line
This photographic history suggests that natural reforestation started after the 1960’s. Probably after the previous owner to us purchased the property in 1976.
Insights and Implications—The land's unique historical and natural features offer significant conservation and educational opportunities.
The alignment with the old railway has uniquely shaped the land, suggesting a consideration of historical elements in future land use planning and potentially harnessing this for heritage tourism or educational purposes.
The property's natural connection to larger forest areas and the Baw Baw ranges enhances its potential as a crucial biodiversity corridor. Prioritising its conservation could strengthen regional ecological networks and wildlife habitats.
The spontaneous reforestation on the western side indicates a strong natural capacity for recovery. This suggests that with minimal human intervention, these lands can serve as models for natural reforestation practices and studies on ecological succession.
The aging and dying trees in the western forest, coupled with invasive species, point to a need for targeted ecological management strategies to restore health and support diverse native species.
The steep, poorly managed forests are less suitable for agriculture but ideal for conservation. Effective management should focus on removing invasive species and supporting native revegetation to restore ecological balance and enhance land value.
Actions—Prioritise conservation, manage invasive species, and harness historical elements for broader use.
Create walking trails along the old railway alignment, incorporating informational signage about the history and ecological features of the area to promote heritage tourism. Use a regenerative lens to show what 50 years of returning to Nature can achieve.
Collaborate with local conservation groups to formally designate parts of the property as wildlife corridors that connect to the Baw Baw ranges, implementing protective measures and habitat enhancements.
Identify and plant a variety of native tree and understory species in the spontaneously reforesting areas to diversify the ecosystem and enhance resilience.
Organize regular clearing events to remove invasive blackberries and other non-native plants, followed by replanting with native species to restore forest health.
Regularly monitor the health of the forest through ecological surveys that assess tree health, biodiversity, and invasive species impact, using the findings to inform ongoing management strategies.