“Wandiyali - one step at a time”. A talk by Carolyn Larcombe

WANDIYALI~Environa Wildlife Sanctuary is a 300ha privately owned nature reserve on the doorstep of CANBERRA. It protects a significant patch of critically endangered Box Gum Grassy Woodlands and, with a 10 km fence excluding feral cats and foxes, provides a safe haven for re-introduction of locally extinct species. Landowner and manager, CAROLYN LARCOMBE, will speak about the reserve’s history, current projects, and forward thinking.Bio Carolyn Larcombe’s grandfather bought land in 1924 in New South Wales, just over the border from the newly formed Australian Capital Territory. The Larcombe family moved to the area, named Environa, in the 1960s, initially running fine wool merino sheep before transitioning to Hereford beef cattle as nearby development rapidly precluded sheep grazing. Carolyn and her brothers grew up roaming the surrounds, developing a deep connection with the rolling hills of the land and serpentine bends of Jerrabomberra Creek. In 1999, Carolyn, her husband and sons moved to Wandiyali, on the eastern side of Jerrabomberra Creek. There, she quickly gained new knowledge of local plants and ecosystems, which highlighted the conservation values of the area and ignited her journey into conservation and restoration. Carolyn’s talk will be held in the Slatyer Seminar Room, on the first floor of the R N Robertson Building, 46 Sullivans Creek Road at the ANU. Head up the stepped ramp on the right as you enter the building. Lifts are also available. The Slatyer room will be on your left at the front of the building. Light refreshments will be served from 7pm with the meeting to commence at 7.30pm. Please bring a keep cup or mug for coffee or tea. Non (and new!) members welcome! Also check out other Workshops in Canberra [https://allevents.in/canberra/workshops] , Meetups in Canberra [https://allevents.in/canberra/meetups] .