More than 50 people made their way to BaDL member Susie’s property at the base of Whinpullin (Minto Crag) at Croftby for a truly inspiring event on Saturday 7th June.
The property, on Ugarapul Country, has been the location of several Cultural Burns over the past four years. This Cultural Burning Workshop, held as part of our “Keep Calm, Grow Trees” series, was a perfect opportunity to learn about what is happening there and how Cultural Burning has helped Susie manage her property.
Indigenous Fire Practitioners, Kruze and Rheanne from Julnair Fire Team, and Matthew from Firesticks guided us through the principles of Cultural Burning and explained the processes for healing Country.
These ancient practices, which are being brought back to prominence as an important and effective land management tool, are rooted in a deep respect and understanding of the land, animals, and plants.
We saw how native grasses have flourished on this property through the effective use of Cultural Burning techniques to manage weeds and activate the native seed bank.
We learned how important it is to read the conditions of the soil, plants and animals to ensure that cool burns could create a healthy ecosystem and reduce fuel loads.
Land for Wildlife Officer, Greg Tasney, who has conducted surveys at this property, was on hand to show the range of native grasses flourishing in the treated areas. There were lots of questions from the large group as we walked and talked, which prompted further learning.
There was a buzz of excitement as the group dispersed, which is exactly what we want at the end of an event that has the potential to encourage the spread of effective land management practices.
It was so inspiring to see so many young land management professionals from Ipswich, Brisbane and beyond attending and asking so many questions. These are the torch-bearers (literally) taking us into the future.
