Lot 2: Rewilded.

With the acquisition of Lot 2, Mick and the community embarked on the next chapter—a period of rewilding. Orchestrated with the collaborative efforts of Roger Ganly, a crucial force within ANGAIR (Anglesea, Aireys Inlet Society for the Protection of Flora, and Fauna), and the Friends of Aireys Inlet Valley and Coastal Reserve. It was with the support of ANGAIR and Roger that helped secure grants totalling $100,000, infusing life into the transformative efforts. Using his expansive knowledge of indigenous plants, Roger also helped Mick to choose the right plants for the project.

Mick and I worked together to apply for grants, about 4 years ago.

Landowners can't get those sorts of grants by themselves, they have to be auspiced by a body and ANGAIR was the body who auspiced those so yes, that's how I got involved, and ANGAIR got involved.

- Roger Ganly.

Roger Ganly at Lot 2, Aireys Inlet, Victoria, Australia. 2023. Photo by Kylie Murphy.

Community Working Bee Sunday 1st October 2023

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A tray of young plants sits among the grass.

A pair of gloved hands dig in the soil to plant a seedling.

Two people stand on opposite sides of the red watering can. One person fills it with a hose.

A person is bent over, placing seedlings into new pots.

A person is standing, spraying a hose while another person is seen in the background.

In the background, one person is filling a watering can, while the legs of 3 other people can be seen standing in the foreground.

A group of 6 people stand and sit amongst the bushland. They are planting new seedlings.

One person sits on the ground, while another person hands them an item.
Photo taken by (NAME) at Lot 2, Aireys Inlet. October 2023.

Two people are seen through a clearing in the trees. One is kneeling down and the other crouching down. They are putting a stake in the ground.

A person holds a white watering can, and tips it over the new sapling.

Four people can be seen kneeling on the ground, and one person is standing up. They are planting small trees.

There are three people standing up in the background in various states of walking. One person kneels at the front.

A person is hammering a stake and plant protection panel into the ground.

A person holding a white water can is water a new plant.

Two people standing amongst nature. One has a hoe and is clearing weeds.

Three people off in the distance amongst trees.

Two people next to a wheelbarrow in the bush.

Five people sit around on chairs talking amongst themselves.

A group of adults stand and sit in a group eating and drinking.

The concept of rewilding Lot 2 surpasses the mere act of planting trees; it embodies the restoration of ecosystems, the revival of biodiversity, and a profound reconnection with the land. Over 8,000 indigenous seedlings took root, bravely reclaiming the terrain from the grip of the overgrazed, hoof trodden dirt.

Barbara Wilson and Mark Garkaklis, a part of the Wild Otways Initiative, dived into the intricate work required for Lot 2's revival. Barbara's research focused on documenting the return of small native mammals, especially the endangered swamp antechinus, and offered a vivid illustration of the profound impact of rewilding on indigenous fauna. In parallel, Mark worked alongside Barbara and also explored the nuanced challenges posed by Phytophthora. This contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the ecological complexities faced in the rewilding process.

Barbara Wilson and Mark Garkaklis, at Aireys Inlet, Victoria, Australia, 2023.

Video by Avalon Morrison. (length 2:23)

Barbara Wilson and Mark Garkaklis

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Rewilding is not without its challenges. The process demands meticulous planning, constant vigilance, and the resilience to overcome unforeseen obstacles. The commitment to replenishing indigenous vegetation and fostering a thriving ecosystem is a laborious yet immensely rewarding endeavour. Mark and Barbara explore these intricacies, uncovering the nuances of the return of native flora and fauna—a testament to a community dedicated to the cause.

In the end, thousands of trees were planted, a boardwalk built, and wetlands were reclaimed. Lot 2, nestled in the middle of overgrazed fields, transitioned from a field of emptiness to a vital part of the landscape—a living testament to the power of community-driven conservation.

Michael Loughnan at Lot 2, Aireys Inlet, Victoria, Australia, 2023.

Video by Avalon Morrison. (length 1:28)