Lot 2: Reawakened.

In Lot 2's Reawakening, the growing sanctuary for native fauna showcases the success of the Painkalac Valley Wetland Rehabilitation Project. Notably, the return of endangered species like the swamp antechinus stands out. Barbara Wilson's meticulous documentation, complemented by Mark's population monitoring efforts, captures the resurgence of these creatures—a result of Barbara's decades-long research. The reappearance of animal life narrates the tale of a remarkably successful restoration effort.

Animals & Insects of Lot 2

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Jo Day, the Corangamite Regional Manager for Trust For Nature (TFN), sheds light on Michael and Jacinta's ongoing commitment to Lot 2 and the local community. Their proactive approach materialized in the form of a TFN covenant, ensuring perpetual protection. Jo Day underscores the ecological significance of this seemingly small parcel of land, transcending its size in terms of biodiversity and environmental impact. The TFN covenant is vitally important, fortifying the enduring vision of the project for generations to come.

The voices connected to Lot 2's reawakening resonate with hope and vision. Michael Loughnan envisions continual improvement, fostering connections within the valley, eliminating feral animals, and minimizing weed proliferation. His aspirations extend to creating safe havens for smaller animals, ensuring the ecological ensemble thrives harmoniously.

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

For Mark and Barbara, Lot 2 is an integral piece of a broader vision for the Otways region—a sanctuary where native species flourish, and biodiversity thrives. Their dreams stretch beyond project boundaries, embracing cultural sensitivity and learning from the profound connection First Nations communities have with the land. In these collective dreams lies the promise of a future where Lot 2 becomes not just a symbol of restoration but a living testament to the enduring commitment of a community and the heartbeat of environmental stewardship.

I hope that Lot 2 continues in the trajectory it is going in. I see a future where this could definitely serve as trial reintroduction sites or refuges, particularly if it's there's some fenced areas they don't need to be huge for a rare and endangered species, which then can repopulate other areas in the Otways...

Barbara Wilson and Mark Garkaklis, at Lot 2, Aireys Inlet, Victoria, Australia. 2023. Photo by Anna Madden.

... I also see the connectivity down the valley, from the dunes coming back here and into the hinterland, as it once was - a complete Valley. And I know that our indigenous people Wadawurrung have talked to us about their visions of connectivity from the sea inland, they don't see it as little bits of the landscape. They see it continuous.

-Barbara Wilson, Ecologist.

Roger Ganly dreams of a seamless transition in conservation efforts, envisioning a younger generation stepping into the stewardship of ANGAIR. Roger's dream lies in fostering a legacy of conservation, where the passion and expertise built over years are carried forward by a new wave of individuals dedicated to safeguarding the natural world.

The Painkalac Valley Wetland Rehabilitation Project, led by ANGAIR, AIDA, Landcare, and the Wild Otways Initiative, goes beyond land restoration, showcasing how community commitment can reshape environmental history. Lot 2's ongoing reawakening is a testament to nurtured dreams, hard-fought battles, and the unwavering spirit of collective community endeavour—a rallying cry for others to join the fight for conservation, reimagine, rewild, and witness the profound reawakening of the natural world.

Mark Garkaklis (Ecologist), at Lot 2, Aireys Inlet, Victoria, Australia. 2023. Video by Avalon Morrison.