A tree planting day was held at the base of Kincumba Mountain Reserve on National Tree Day, as part of Taronga’s Project Habitat.

Kincumba Mountain Reserve is a 600 hectare reserve managed by Gosford City Council. The reserve supports a number of rare and threatened species, including Yellow-bellied Gliders, Long-nosed Potoroos and Powerful Owls.

The aim of the day was to restore a small area of Swamp Mahogany forest to function as a critical winter ‘pantry’ site within the reserve, as it is one of the only winter flowering plants that many native fauna rely upon.

The day itself started early at 9am and many local residents were present before the start – ready and eager for the planting to begin. More than 400 plants were in the ground by 10.30am!

Participants also enjoyed a free BBQ, animal encounters from Taronga’s Zoomobile and a special guest appearance from Fergus the Yellow-bellied Glider.

The day was a great success, with everyone learning something new about their local reserve.

Gosford City Council has also established a new roving Bushcare Group for those interested in getting involved on a regular basis. Training to regular volunteers in habitat restoration, monitoring and evaluation will be provided. For more information email Bushcare@gosford.nsw.gov.au or call 02 4325 8222. 

This project has been generously supported by Gosford City Council and Taronga Zoo, with support from Boeing Australia.

For more information on Project Habitat and how to get involved, visit: taronga.org.au/education/project-habitat or email projecthabitat@zoo.nsw.gov.au