Annual Report 2013–2014 Our purpose Our values We secure and protect Australia’s Conservation goals are paramount Our people’s health and safety biodiversity and natural landscapes are absolutely critical We are pragmatic, collaborative and creative Cover: Bush Heritage ecologist Angela Sanders (right) and Gondwana Link Our supporters are fundamental Healthy Landscape Manager Simon Smale (second from right) on Monjebup to our success Reserve with passionate conservationists Bill and Jane Thompson, who are finalising a partnership with Bush Heritage for their property Yarraweyah Falls. We recognise and respect the Photograph by Jessica Wyld Photography traditional owners of the land 2 Contents Chief Executive’s report 4 More achievements around the country 22 President’s report 5 Our partners and supporters 24 What we do 6 Governance report 27 Who we are 7 Treasurer’s report 30 Our year at a glance 8 Directors’ report 31 Looking ahead 2014–17 9 Concise consolidated financial report 33 Progress against our strategic goals 10 Thank you 43

Above: Morning sun through white gum open forest, Yourka Reserve, Qld. The Bush Heritage Australia financial Photograph by Wayne Lawler / Ecopix year runs from 1 April to 31 March 3 Chief Executive’s report

“Engaging the community in our work is vital if we are to build the momentum needed to tackle the environmental issues that face us.”

Bush Heritage has had a great year and I am pleased We have added two small but important properties to be able to report on the progress we have made to our portfolio this year and I’m pleased to report against our strategic goals. that our major acquisition for 2012–13 Naree Station Reserve is fully established. By the end of 2013–14 With your support we are making a real difference to Naree’s critical infrastructure was operational, its land the health of the environment. We have again finished management well underway and the initial eco-blitz Gerard O’Neill the year as a strong organisation with sound plans for completed (see page 13). Chief Executive the coming years. Our focus on safety has meant further training for We continue to work hard on our own reserves Photograph by Peter Morris all staff and the Board of Directors. A highlight was and with our neighbours and partners to manage the first of a number of Outback survival courses environmental threats such as fire, feral animals and for staff and partner organisations. We are now even weeds. In addition, we have focused this year on more confident in the safety of our operations across building our supporter base, developing conservation the country and particularly in remote regions. Our partnerships, particularly with Aboriginal communities, professional response to wildfires on a number of our and improving the safety of our staff, volunteers reserves and neighbouring properties, and our work and visitors. Our regional management structure alongside volunteer fire services, station owners and is producing a more effective, responsive and traditional owners, demonstrates the importance of innovative organisation and in particular enabling our training and participation in regional networks. the establishment and consolidation of our partnerships. We have used blues music to engage people with our Engaging the community in our work is vital if we environmental cause and had some exciting species are to build the momentum needed to tackle the newly recorded on our reserves, including the red environmental issues that face us. We are developing goshawk at Yourka Reserve in Queensland. innovative ways to involve our supporters and the wider community. Our internal blog, featuring I am particularly excited by the opportunities that stories and pictures of our daily activities around the are opening up for us in our work with Aboriginal country, is now open to our supporters. We hope it communities. My visit to our partners at Balkanu provides an enjoyable window into the work that’s Cape York Development Corporation was a highlight, made possible through your wonderful contributions, and I was formally welcomed onto Umpila country as together we strive for a more resilient, healthier by the traditional owners. I saw first-hand the Australian environment. impact that Bush Heritage has had since we began working in the region in 2006. Our participation in I encourage you to read more about Bush Heritage’s the World Indigenous Network Conference 2013 also progress in our Annual Report for 2013–14. demonstrated that protecting country and culture are goals that we share with Aboriginal people, and we are well placed to assist communities realise their aspirations for their country.

4 President’s report

“Now, more than ever, conservation needs to be a community-based effort, driven by the recognition that our long-term wellbeing and sustainability as a nation depends on a healthy, resilient environment.”

The work of Bush Heritage is becoming increasingly As a board, we are delighted by the calibre and important as the environmental challenges grow and the commitment of our volunteer network – generous capacity of governments to tackle the issues diminishes. people who give their time and expertise, and often their financial support, to many and varied Now, more than ever, conservation needs to be a activities both on our reserves and in the Conservation community-based effort, driven by the recognition Support Centre in Melbourne. These people – some that our long-term wellbeing and sustainability as a Louise Sylvan 430 strong – are simply marvellous and it’s a great nation depends on a healthy, resilient environment. President pleasure to record our thanks. Bush Heritage is committed to building these healthy I would also like to acknowledge the directors, Photograph by Steve Lovegrove landscapes through our tested model of buying and volunteers themselves, who have each worked hard managing properties of outstanding conservation value to guide Bush Heritage over the last year. Our focus and working collaboratively with partners throughout on safety, and the committed efforts of staff in this Australia. Our regional staff are engaging more than regard, have delivered a rigorous and effective system ever before with local communities, bringing knowledge, that ensures our staff, volunteers and visitors can influence and resources to support community work in safety and enjoy even the most remote of endeavours. These commitments are reflected in our our wonderful landscapes. Strategic Plan and its six underlying strategic goals, as well as in our organisational values. This Annual This year we farewelled Dr Steve Morton from the Report records the progress we have made in 2013–14 Board of Directors and I would like to thank him towards achieving our goals. for his outstanding contribution over the past ten years. His extensive knowledge of ecological issues The Bush Heritage Board of Directors approved a provided vital context for our Board discussions and budget for the 2013–14 financial year that allowed his contributions were always wise and considered. for a manageable deficit in order to commit extra Through his chairmanship of the Board’s Science and resources towards building our supporter base and Conservation Committee, Steve worked closely with thus delivering a stronger and more sustainable staff to ensure Bush Heritage always takes a highly organisation. This strategy has produced very positive strategic approach to identifying those regions in results to date and we expect to return to surplus in which our work can have the greatest impacts. 2014–15. Our organisation continues to be in a sound financial position, and our supporter base is expanding You, our supporters, are vital to the achievement to underpin our work. of our goals and you continue to show your concern for the environment by providing your support, through financial and other contributions. The Board of Directors acknowledges and greatly values this commitment and we recognise that Bush Heritage is only able to achieve what it does because of your generosity and commitment. Thank you.

5 What we do

Our challenge Our reserves are the ‘anchors’ for our work in The fledgling organisation, with growing each priority landscape (see pages 22–23) and numbers of supporters, soon embraced a Australia’s wild and beautiful lands continue enable us to engage with local communities national vision for conservation, buying other to be degraded. The International Union and partners to build regional approaches to reserves around Australia to protect their for the Conservation of Nature and Natural tackling environmental issues. natural values, and building partnerships with Resources (IUCN) identified Australia as other land owners to achieve conservation having the worst rate of mammal extinction We help partners with capacity building results at a landscape scale. of any developed nation – 28 of 57 extinct and skills development, provide services Australian species are mammals. Land in conservation planning and ecology, and Today clearing, salinity, erosion, weed invasion contribute practical and financial support. Today, we work across more than 4.8 million and feral animals continue to threaten our Our staff benefit greatly from the reciprocal hectares, including on our reserves and on natural environment and the 1641 species sharing of knowledge and experience, which land owned by our partners. In managing currently listed as nationally threatened. builds mutual understanding and respect. the land we integrate science-based strategies Australians need to act boldly and decisively It enables us, in partnership, to protect with Aboriginal knowledge where we can. to arrest and reverse this decline. biodiversity on a landscape scale and create healthier, more resilient ecosystems that Bush Heritage reserves protect threatened Our response benefit both people and native species. ecosystems and populations of animal and plant species, including 185 species Bush Heritage Australia is committed to History listed as threatened. These reserves securing and protecting Australia’s unique contribute to building the health of wider animals and plants. We are dedicated to The Bush Heritage story began in Tasmania landscapes as we reduce threats such as restoring ecosystems so their vital role as in 1990, when Dr Bob Brown used prize weeds, feral predators and erosion, restore providers of fresh water, healthy soil, plant money from an environmental award as a the functioning of ecosystem processes, pollination, nutrient cycling and carbon down payment on 241 hectares of old-growth and reach out to local communities. storage will continue, and sustain life for forest in Tasmania’s Liffey Valley. This land the long term. would otherwise have been wood-chipped. Our Aboriginal partners together manage Bob Brown’s efforts to repay the bank loan over 3.8 million hectares, and our regional To achieve these aims we carefully select, brought together a group of passionate partnerships with other agencies, regional purchase and manage land of outstanding people whose vision for protecting the conservation networks and with individual conservation significance and work in a natural world initiated the establishment property owners are expanding. We continue collaborative and respectful way with existing of Bush Heritage in 1991. to invest in establishing and consolidating and new partners in all parts of the country. partnerships with traditional owners in all states and territories. 6 Who we are

Bush Heritage is a national not-for-profit Volunteers Staff organisation committed to protecting Volunteers are a vital part of the Bush Bush Heritage employs people across Australia’s natural environment. Heritage team. They bring their skills, Australia. Our staff are highly skilled and Our work is possible because of a community energy, time and experience to all aspects have extensive experience, including in of committed supporters, including donors, of our work. They contribute to activities ecology, land management, conservation volunteers, pro bono supporters, partners, as varied as database development, advising planning, Aboriginal engagement, financial collaborators, agencies and staff. Our people on corporate governance, infrastructure and business management and systems, are our strength. repairs on reserves, mapping, ecological fundraising and marketing. monitoring and weeding. Volunteer The growing Bush Heritage presence Donors caretakers manage our reserves while in the bush is helping us expand and staff are on leave. The generosity of our donors empowers consolidate our regional and Aboriginal Bush Heritage to set ambitious goals and partnerships. The Conservation Support Partners work steadily towards achieving them. Centre in Melbourne is the hub for staff Their support enables us to invest not only Our partners include Aboriginal groups, and volunteers working on conservation in buying more land and expanding our work property neighbours and other land strategy and planning, marketing and with partners, but also in broadening our owners, conservation management networks, fundraising, volunteering and visitation supporter base and improving our business natural resource management agencies, and in corporate services. operations so we have an increasingly other not-for-profit organisations and many efficient and effective organisation able others. University and science partners work Patron to meet the challenges ahead. closely with us on researching the ecology Dr Bob Brown (Founder). Our donors, who give through individual of our reserves and land owned by partners. In the last financial year, Bush Heritage gifts, monthly direct debits or bequests, have Ambassadors contributed on average 91 per cent of our focused more strongly on working with funding over the last five years. We have partners in order to expand the reach of Phillip Adams, Chris Darwin, Tim Fischer, received federal government support for land our conservation activities and bring more John Williamson, Roger Woodward. acquisition in the past and currently receive people to our cause. federal and state government support for Opposite page: Gibber gecko hitches a ride, Boolcoomatta Reserve, SA. specific land management programs. Photograph by Annette Ruzicka Top: Ant architecture, Cravens Peak Reserve, Qld. Photograph by Peter Morris 7 Our year at a glance

In 2013–14, Bush Heritage: • continued control programs on weeds, • significantly improved our safety systems, including on Siam weed, Johnson and and planning and reporting systems • purchased two small properties that buffel grass, parkinsonia and wheel cactus including providing coaching and support increased the size, conservation value for other organisations implementing and ease of management of Nardoo Hills • recorded six additional threatened species the Open Standard for the Practice Reserve in Victoria, and Liffey Valley on our reserves: red goshawk and Mareeba of Conservation Reserve in Tasmania rock-wallaby on Yourka Reserve, Qld, Tunbridge buttercup on a Tasmanian • participated in 22 scientific fora • entered into a Memorandum of Midlands stewardship property, stripe-faced and published nine peer-reviewed Understanding with Warddeken Land dunnart and little pied bat on Naree Station scientific papers Management Ltd, Arnhem Land, and Reserve, NSW, and eastern pygmy possum extended for another five years our • expanded opportunities for supporters on Scottsdale Reserve, NSW contract to provide ongoing support to visit reserves. for the 1.4 million hectares Warddeken • undertook an eco-blitz on the new property Indigenous Protected Area Naree Station Reserve, NSW, to provide baseline ecological data, and on Charles • extended for another five years our contract 6 Darwin Reserve, WA, to inform our with Balkanu Aboriginal Development additional threatened five-year analysis of ecological progress Corporation, Cape York, to support the species recorded on reserves implementation of the Umpila Healthy • celebrated the 10-year anniversary of for the first time Country Plan that covers 250 000 hectares Charles Darwin Reserve, WA, with an Open Day and inaugural Blues for • strengthened existing and emerging 13 the Bush, which was attended by over partnerships with traditional owners in all 800 people major control programs states, including negotiating an Indigenous undertaken for feral animals Land Use Agreement with the Warrungu • saw 176 volunteers contribute over and weeds people, traditional owners of the country 16 000 hours of work either on our that includes Yourka Reserve, Qld reserves or in the Conservation Support Centre, Melbourne 8000 • removed many thousands of feral animals • welcomed over 8000 new financial new financial supporters from reserves including cats, foxes, pigs, were welcomed goats, camels and fish supporters

Top: Rainbow bee-eater, Boolcoomatta Reserve, SA. Photograph by Peter Morris 8 Looking ahead 2014–17

As part of our planning for 2014–15 we Goal 2 Goal 4 reviewed the Bush Heritage Strategic Plan Maintain and improve conservation Increase to 30 000 the number of people 2012–17 and updated its key strategies. management outcomes we engage with and who support our work These strategies will be the focus of our 2.1 Utilise the Conservation Management 4.1 Recruit and maintain a supporter base work over the next three years and will Process in all conservation projects. that financially sustains our operations. help us to achieve our purpose of securing 2.2 Engage with and apply traditional 4.2 Engage, inspire and empower people and protecting Australia’s biodiversity and scientific knowledge to enable to support our purpose. and natural landscapes. implementation of high quality 4.3 Engage and be an active part of Goal 1 landscape restoration and delivery the communities where we work. of good conservation outcomes. Double the area secured for conservation, 2.3 Ensure effective long-term protection Goal 5 by direct acquisition and partnership, and management of reserves and Build the financial sustainability and from 3 million to 6 million hectares partnership properties. operational capacity of Bush Heritage 1.1 Acquire new properties and enter new 5.1 Increase the annual revenue to $20 Goal 3 partnerships within an agreed strategic million while closely managing costs. priority landscape framework. Demonstrate leadership and innovation 5.2 Design and implement sustainable 1.2 Develop innovative ways to secure in nature conservation revenue streams to support our growth. and protect biodiversity and natural 3.1 Use our properties and partnerships 5.3 Manage an efficient and effective business, landscapes. to leverage additional conservation capable of delivering our goals. 1.3 Actively support the development outcomes. of Indigenous Protected Areas. 3.2 Work with leading research Goal 6 institutions to advance the practice Ensure an organisational culture of land conservation. of collaboration and commitment 3.3 Influence the identification and 6.1 Invest in recruiting and supporting protection of plants, animals and a skilled and diverse workforce. landscapes of high conservation value. 6.2 Foster effective communication 3.4 Promote the use and development of and linkages within Bush Heritage. Rock art on Bidjara traditional lands leading conservation standards and tools. at Carnarvon Station Reserve, Qld. 6.3 Develop an outreach culture to build Photograph by Wayne Lawler / Ecopix effective engagement and influence. 9 Progress against our strategic goals

Our priorities for the five years from 2012 to 2017 are organised under six strategic goals. Here, we describe these goals and report on our progress.

Strengthening support In 2013, Bush Heritage also signed a new Goal 1 for our partners five-year agreement with Balkanu Cape York Development Corporation. Balkanu, another In December 2013, Bush Heritage and long-term partner that Bush Heritage has Double the Warddeken Land Management Ltd signed supported since 2006, has an important area secured for a new five-year partnership agreement to role in assisting about 50 different language continue working collaboratively to support groups across the 13.7 million hectares of conservation, by the management of the 1.4 million-hectare the Cape York Peninsula. It provides support Warddeken Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) to communities on issues associated with direct acquisition on the Arnhem Land plateau, Northern mining activity and climate change and with and partnership, Territory. The Arnhem Plateau comprises land management projects. Projects include rugged ‘stone country’ with escarpments wildfire management, and weed and feral from 3 million to and rocky gorges and two unique ecological animal control including ongoing control 6 million hectares communities: remnant sandstone rainforests of pigs, which dig up and eat the eggs of and sandstone shrublands. The stone country threatened marine turtles. has high levels of endemism and is home to threatened species such as the northern quoll, Bush Heritage has also developed a strong Bush Heritage secures and protects Australia’s Arnhem Land rock-rat, Oenpelli python and local partnership with the Umpila traditional biodiversity and restores ecosystem health. white-throated grasswren. owners of eastern Cape York after supporting This is achieved using three complementary the development and launch of their Healthy The new agreement is a symbol of the strong strategies: directly purchasing land which Country Plan in 2012. We are excited about partnership that our organisations have forged has outstanding conservation values, the potential of these partnerships to support since we were invited by Warddeken in 2007 purchasing and revegetating land that communities and protect the environment to help with the development of the first IPA will reconnect fragmented landscapes of one of Australia’s biodiversity and cultural Plan of Management, launched in 2009. It also and building partnerships with other land hotspots. Cape York Peninsula is home to demonstrates Bush Heritage’s commitment to owners, particularly traditional owners. a mosaic of largely unspoiled ecosystems supporting conservation efforts on Aboriginal ranging from wetlands, monsoonal rivers, We recognise that using these complementary owned and managed lands. Warddeken has heath lands and dune fields to extensive strategies is critical if we are to achieve been at the forefront of modern conservation tropical savannah woodlands and the effective landscape-scale conservation. and land management by Aboriginal people largest remaining tract of unlogged tropical including entering into a pioneering carbon In 2013–14 we have seen significant progress rainforest on the continent. abatement partnership with a major oil and towards achieving Goal 1, particularly through gas company. For Bush Heritage, the new Bush Heritage is also working in a respectful the ongoing development of partnerships. five-year agreement is the basis for further and pragmatic manner with other Aboriginal innovative conservation initiatives. groups on developing partnerships that will support Aboriginal aspirations to protect the natural values of their lands.

10 The Barnett bequest adds Adding to Oura Oura, Tas to Nardoo Hills, Vic World Heritage declared Oura Oura, in Tasmania’s Liffey Valley, In June 2013, Bush Heritage added 98 connects the Tasmanian Wilderness World Liffey River Reserve, one of the first hectares of endangered grassy woodlands Heritage Area with the productive agricultural Bush Heritage reserves, and Coal Mine to the Nardoo Hills Reserve in Victoria. lands of the adjoining Norfolk Plains. For the Creek Reserve were added to the The land purchase was funded jointly last fifteen years, the thirteen-hectare parcel Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage by Bush Heritage and Trust for Nature of land adjoining Oura Oura to the east was Area in June 2013. using bequests left to both organisations maintained as a reserve by its owners. by John and Jenny Barnett. The Barnetts In 2013, Bush Heritage purchased the were passionate about nature and wildlife Above: Umpila people welcoming Bush Heritage property to ensure its continued conservation to country at Massey Creek, Cape York. and both were well-known identities in management, improve access to Oura Oura Photograph by Mike Winer conservation circles in their home state. and prevent the possibility of undesirable The Barnett Block includes a major creek development. lined with mature stands of yellow box and a patch of buloke-dominated plains Growth in area managed for conservation woodland, a vegetation community that Area Total reserve area Total reserve and partnerships area is rarely represented on conservation land (hectares) Land purchases Partnership agreements in the south-east. 5 000 000 Now owned by Bush Heritage, its management will focus on the eradication of the spiny rush that is present in the creek, 4 000 000 on the reintroduction of rare orchids, and on the restoration of the buloke woodland. 3 000 000 The Barnetts were driving forces behind the Victorian Mammal Survey Group and had visited the Nardoo Hills with the group on 2 000 000 numerous occasions. They participated in installing a few hundred nest boxes at the reserve and in the adjacent forests in order to 1 000 000 monitor the glider and possum populations. The nest boxes and the Barnett Block itself are now part of John and Jenny’s legacy. 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Calendar years

11 Monitoring progress at Monitoring progress at Goal 2 Edgbaston Reserve, Qld Charles Darwin Reserve, WA The first five years of management on Bush Heritage ecologists congregated on Maintain Edgbaston have focused on preventing the Charles Darwin Reserve in late September extinction of the tiny fish, the red-finned to conduct a spring ‘monitoring blitz’. and improve blue-eye, which is listed as Critically The information gathered will be used conservation Endangered in the IUCN Red List of to inform the ecological performance Threatened Species. Aided by the eradication report scheduled for 2014. In 2006, Charles management of the invasive mosquito fish from selected Darwin Reserve was the first reserve on outcomes springs, relocation trials, and the installation which Bush Heritage’s now standard of barrier fences (to quarantine occupied Ecological Outcomes Monitoring approach springs from invasion by mosquito fish was implemented. The approach involves during flood events), the number of springs establishing monitoring sites in a range of Bush Heritage protects threatened plants occupied by the blue-eye has increased from habitats typical of the conservation values and animals and restores their habitats four (in 2008) to six. A new partnership of the reserve and reassessing them at using the best-available science. We actively with Underwater World will focus on a intervals to check on our progress in manage the threats they face. captive breeding program. Bush Heritage protecting and enhancing the habitats. We measure our effectiveness, trial new and has initiated and chairs a recovery team, In 2013, we monitored as many sites innovative techniques, learn from others consisting of national experts, to guide the as possible to provide a comprehensive and adapt our methods in order to get the recovery actions for this species. snapshot of the reserve’s condition. A team best results. The population of the vulnerable Edgbaston of four ecologists and three skilled volunteers goby, another small fish, has remained stable. completed bird surveys at 58 sites, and The endemic wetland plants Eriocaulon vegetation, soil and photo-point monitoring aloefolium and E. giganteum are also at 52 sites and five wells. Highlights included persisting. During the same period, the the first record of a square-tailed kite for condition of the springs – fed by the Great the reserve, and regular sightings of regent Artesian Basin – has remained relatively stable. parrots, red-tailed black cockatoos, southern Increased rainfall, removal of livestock and scrub robins and shy hylacolas. For many control of feral pigs has meant that perennial sites these were repeat surveys and thus grass cover has improved across the reserve. provided vital information on changes over time in soil condition, and the health of The ‘dryland’ management challenges vegetation and bird communities. This data include curtailing the spread of buffel grass, will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of preventing stock incursions, and continuing our management actions in rebuilding the Top: Granite outcrops, the control of pigs and woody weeds. Charles Darwin Reserve, WA. overall health of the reserve. Photograph by Paul Evans 12 Left: Recording plant species, Monjebup Reserve, WA. Photograph by Jessica Wyld Photography

Controlling feral cats A recent CSIRO report states that about 75 million small native animals are likely killed each day across Australia by the estimated 15 million feral cats.

Trials of new cat control techniques are underway at Charles Darwin Reserve, WA. Cat control is part of the daily work at many Bush Heritage reserves.

Expanding our knowledge of Protecting threatened species Numbers of species recorded Naree Station Reserve, NSW in the Tasmanian Midlands so far on Bush Heritage reserves Eco-blitzes – short, intensive flora and The Tasmanian Midlands, one of Australia’s Amphibians fauna surveys – are a means of assessing the fifteen biodiversity hotspots, are home conservation values of each newly acquired to eleven threatened endemic plants, and recorded reserve. On Naree, the wetland values were threatened animals including invertebrates. 50 well understood but the broader values of the With over 95 per cent of the Midlands in 2 threatened property were not. In April 2013, a team of private ownership, Bush Heritage and our 27 people, including scientists, Bush Heritage conservation partners continue to work Reptiles staff, volunteers and traditional owners closely with the farming community to contributed to the Naree eco-blitz. The protect these threatened species. The Midlands 211 recorded researchers looked for all types of life on the Conservation Fund (MCF), established by reserve and mapped broad vegetation types, Bush Heritage and the Tasmanian Land 11 threatened property infrastructure and cultural values. Conservancy, funds stewardship agreements with land owners on whose properties The extremely dry conditions influenced Birds threatened species such as the grassland wildlife capture rates, which were low, paper-daisy, golfers’ leek-orchid, and the particularly in the mulga country. Eleven 411 recorded grassland flax-lily occur. Many of the species reptile species including five skinks, three 59 threatened most at risk are found in the critically geckos, two sliders and a dragon were endangered lowland native grasslands. recorded. Just two marsupial species, the Protecting this community is the key objective. Mammals stripe-faced dunnart (listed as vulnerable in NSW) and the narrow-nosed planigale, Our surveys and monitoring of these 112 recorded were trapped. sites have led to the discovery of new populations of plant species such as the 21 threatened Seven species of bat were recorded including Tunbridge buttercup, one of the rarest the little pied bat, which is vulnerable in plants in Tasmania. Motion-sensing cameras NSW. Four species of kangaroo and the euro Invertebrates have also been used to detect wildlife, and were seen, and echidna scats found. Around the results will help to determine the best 90 bird species were recorded during the 57 recorded strategies to manage the eastern barred blitz, taking the total number of bird species threatened bandicoots, Tasmanian devils, bettongs, 1 observed on Naree to over 170. The surveys spotted-tailed quolls and other threatened also yielded 176 plant species and included animals that occur throughout this region. Plants very few weeds apart from the introduced The Midlands Conservation Fund has been buffel grass. Specialist volunteers and staff 3868 recorded continue to find additional species and build generously supported by Sidney Myer Fund, Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, John T Reid threatened our understanding of the reserve. Charitable Trusts and an anonymous donor. 91

13 Planning for Healthy Country Restoring the bush: Scottsdale, NSW Goal 3 Healthy Country Planning helps traditional Bush Heritage has teamed up with owners develop a plan that recognises their Greening Australia to undertake a large-scale Demonstrate responsibility to manage the cultural and revegetation program on Scottsdale Reserve. natural values of their country today and into The aim is to restore 300 hectares of the leadership and the future. Healthy country means healthy reserve’s highly modified valley floor to innovation in nature people, and Healthy Country Planning helps Box Gum Grassy Woodland, and reduce mark out a path to achieve that goal. the area of the invasive African lovegrass. conservation Grassy box woodland is critical for This year Bush Heritage has worked with the ecological processes that support a number of traditional owner groups to woodland-dependent animals and plants. support their efforts in developing healthy Bush Heritage has a collaborative approach country plans. On Cape York, we worked Over a two-year period, we are undertaking to conservation. with Umpila, Olkola and Wik traditional large-scale plantings, and restoring native We share knowledge and learn from owners, and assisted at training sessions herb and grassland patches in strips between others. We trial and demonstrate innovative with Gudanji and Garawa peoples from the the trees. Restoring the grassland patches techniques in conservation management, southern Gulf of Carpentaria. Further south will require special treatments including and inspire and support others to implement we worked on healthy country plans with the burning, and scraping off and removing the most effective strategies. Adnyamathanha people of the Nepabunna the unsuitable topsoil that is enriched with Aboriginal community in South Australia, agricultural fertilisers. and the Dja Dja Wurrung traditional owners During the first stage of this project in 2013, of central Victoria. about 10 000 tree and shrub seedlings were Umpila traditional owner Johanne planted and around 25 km of direct-seeding Omeenyo says, undertaken. Staff effort was supported by hundreds of volunteer days of work, which “The Umpila Healthy Country Plan is really an has kept the restoration schedule on track. aspiration that my uncle has driven for a long Next year, another 10 000 tree and shrub time, he was always talking – ‘we need to come seedlings will be planted and a further 62 km up with a plan’ – he kept on saying that in our direct seeded (also with trees and shrubs). meetings. Then we met Bush Heritage at some We will also be seeding about two hectares workshops in Darwin and that’s when our of land with native grasses and establishing Top left: Volunteers contribute eyes opened up a bit and I thought this would one hectare of native grass understorey with enormously to revegetation be a good method for what my uncle has been work, Scottsdale Reserve, NSW. a mix of grasses and forbs on land currently talking about.” Photograph by Brett Peden dominated by the African lovegrass. Top right: Seedlings ready for Bush Heritage is now providing resources This revegetation project received some support planting, Scottsdale Reserve, NSW. to help the Umpila people to implement from the Federal Government’s Clean Energy Photograph by Brett Peden their plan. Futures Biodiversity Fund. 14 Using the best science We led many community presentations and Questions about the impact of the changing field days, connecting with enthusiasts and seasons in different parts of the country, the Bush Heritage’s science program promotes experts alike. These face-to-face interactions, prevalence of local wildlife, or what’s locally the science behind our conservation which reached over 2000 people, are critical in flower can all be answered directly by the strategies and actions, and contributes to validating and testing our scientific people working in the field. Subscribers to knowledge to the wider scientific community. foundations, ensuring that we remain the free blog can choose to be notified of In 2013–14, scientific output from Bush up-to-date, relevant and informed. specific types of updates and can get access Heritage staff included the publication of to the blog from most electronic devices. nine peer-reviewed scientific papers, three Bushie Blog: getting connected book chapters and five popular articles. Highlights included a paper in Marine and The launch on our website of a new blogging Freshwater Research summarising the research platform has enabled people to connect “Face-to-face interactions undertaken at Edgbaston to protect the directly with Bush Heritage staff out on are critical to validating red-finned blue-eye, and three papers in the land. Initially launched internally to a special edition of Austral Ecology focused help our office team keep up-to-date with and testing our scientific on desert environments. news from the field, the blog has become an foundations, ensuring that indispensable part of our day-to-day business Bush Heritage’s experience and expertise and brings to life the application of our we remain up-to-date, in landscape-scale multi-tenure conservation strategies and work plans out on the reserves. partnerships was reflected in three relevant and informed.” chapters in Linking Australia’s landscapes: Wherever they are, supporters can now get lessons and opportunities from large-scale access to fresh ‘posts’ from the reserves or conservation networks published by partnerships and respond with questions or CSIRO Publishing. comments. This enables supporters to talk Bushie Blog launched directly to us about our work and exchange Staff presented papers at ten conferences A new blogging platform directly thoughts and ideas with our ecologists, (including two keynote presentations) connects our supporters with our reserve managers and partnership staff. with topics as diverse as saving the critically people on the land. Stay in touch: endangered red-finned blue-eye, partnering The blog provides access to the latest news, www.bushheritage.org.au/blog in Aboriginal conservation projects, and notes and images as they are recorded. or get updates via Facebook or Twitter. the influence of mosaic burning on bird Anyone can learn about projects currently diversity. Alongside university, agency and in progress, our connections with local government scientists, as well as community communities, results from our monitoring partners, our ecologists participated in twelve work, and reflections about life on the land. workshops that covered issues such as priority management of invasive species in the Lake Eyre Basin, conservation decision-making on private land, and malleefowl conservation.

15 In 2013–14, we welcomed over 8000 new Media coverage of Bush Heritage’s work Goal 4 supporters to Bush Heritage. We now have reached an estimated fourteen million people more than 18 000 people actively providing in 2013. This included nationwide coverage financial support. on the purchase of our spectacular Outback Increase to 30 000 wetlands property, Naree Station, and the The greater number of supporters is launch of our Midlands Conservation Fund the number of the result of our increased focus on and in news, philanthropic and finance media, investment in activities to engage new donors people we engage including front page coverage. The purchase through direct mail, print and face-to-face of the Barnett Block, the latest addition to the communication channels. We will work hard with and who Nardoo Hills Reserve, featured on the front to earn their ongoing support. support our work page of The Age. We were extremely pleased In the past year, we also undertook another that one of our very own Bush Heritage supporter survey. More than 3000 supporters families, the Haleses, reserve managers at People support Bush Heritage for responded and confirmed that we were on Yourka Reserve, received recognition in the many different reasons and demonstrate the right track in using their donations to Queensland print media for their work. this support by becoming donors, make a tangible difference in conserving We held six Bush Chat events in capital cities volunteers, pro bono supporters, habitats and protecting biodiversity. Many for people who have let us know that they partners, ambassadors, advocates or supporters were also interested in visiting have left Bush Heritage a gift in their Will or participants in conservation networks. our reserves and engaging with us online, are considering doing so. These gatherings and this strengthened our own plans to Bush Heritage actively reaches out and are informal discussions where questions can make improvements in these areas. gives back to the communities in which be asked and answered. We are now planning we work. As we inspire and involve more As a result, in February 2014 we launched further opportunities for our supporters to people we build our capacity to achieve our Bushie Blog (see page 15). The blog can spread the word about Bush Heritage to their greater results for the conservation of our be found on our website and allows us to friends and neighbours in positive, friendly natural environment. generate real-time discussions about what and proactive ways. happens daily on our reserves and in other places where we work. We’ve also incorporated much of our supporters’ feedback in the new and improved quarterly newsletter, Bush Tracks (see the masthead on right).

Top: Blues for the Bush, Charles Darwin Reserve, WA. Photograph by Cineport Media 16 Left: Tag-along tourers, Cravens Peak Reserve, Qld. Photograph by Katrina Blake Below: Ecologist Matt Appleby takes Open Day visitors around Charles Darwin Reserve, WA. Photograph by Cineport Media

Charles Darwin Reserve, WA, Getting supporters out to reserves Reserves open to visitors in 2013–14 Open Day and Blues for the Bush Bush Heritage is committed to engaging, Visit type Reserves Community support is a critical factor in inspiring and empowering people to Self-guided Kojonup Reserve, WA delivering effective conservation outcomes participate in its work. One way to encourage day visits both within and beyond the boundaries this involvement is to provide access to our Chereninup Creek Reserve, WA of a property like Charles Darwin Reserve, reserves. Our supporter surveys tell us that Liffey River Reserve, Tas

WA. The 2013 Charles Darwin Reserve people are keen to see the places they have Oura Oura, Tas Open Day and Blues for the Bush concert helped to protect. Currumbin Reserve, Qld was the joint initiative of Bush Heritage In providing access to our reserves we need to and the Shire of Perenjori, and celebrated Camping Charles Darwin Reserve, WA consider the safety of visitors, the experience the ten-year anniversary of Bush Heritage’s Boolcoomatta Reserve, SA we offer, and any potential impacts on the purchase of the 68 000-hectare reserve. The conservation values that may be caused by Tag-along Cravens Peak and aim was to stage a high-quality creative and touring Ethabuka reserves, Qld increasing numbers of people. cultural event that would ‘engage, inspire and delight’, and over seventeen local businesses This year, we successfully trialled a five-day and regional funding bodies provided ‘tag-along’ trip on remote Cravens Peak and sponsorship and support. Ethabuka reserves in western Queensland. “I admire Bush Heritage This style of tour allows participants to be The Open Day attracted about 250 people as it goes from strength to fully self-sufficient and travel safely around and over 800 attended the Blues for the the properties accompanied by the reserve strength and the way it has Bush concert. Ecologists and field naturalists manager. The success of this trip means we hosted tours of the reserve while children encouraged other movements have planned tag-along tours to other reserves. were entertained with interactive and along the same line – a pioneer nature-based activities. The day also featured We have also expanded camping opportunities – and beautifully done.” bush poetry sessions and a forum about the on our reserves with the improvement of role of agriculture, conservation and mining facilities on Charles Darwin Reserve, WA, and Margaret Booth, supporter since 1991 in the region. At the conclusion of the day, by opening a campground at Boolcoomatta the Blues for the Bush concert was a relaxed Reserve, SA. Camping fees have been and casual family affair, with everybody removed and visitors are encouraged to make enjoying food and drinks under the stars a donation instead. We now take multiple while listening to the bands. The event helped bookings at each site, limited only by the to build local community support for Bush capacity of the campgrounds. Heritage’s conservation work and will be In Queensland, the Carnarvon Station Reserve held again on Saturday, 4 October 2014. campground reopened in April 2014 after closing in 2010 due to extensive flood damage.

17 Building financial security Bush Heritage retains a strong capital base with over $39 million in net assets, Goal 5 Bush Heritage donors continue to be generous representing the accumulated supporter and committed, supporting us through specific contributions and other earnings that Bush campaigns, purchases of our virtual ‘WILDgifts’ Build the financial Heritage has received since inception and and our Friends of the Bush program. Friends which has been applied to the acquisition of sustainability and of the Bush represents a source of regular land and other capital assets for conservation income that helps us to make plans for the operational capacity purposes. Over the next five years, we will future. It is an increasingly important part greatly enhance our international fundraising of our fundraising program. More than 3000 of Bush Heritage capacity and develop a significant endowment new donors joined the program in 2013–14, fund to ensure sufficient funding for the bringing the total number of Friends to 8000. ongoing management of the properties we Bush Heritage implements a business This year, our quarterly appeals raised a secure and protect. model that is sustainable, supports ongoing hugely generous $1 160 000 to help address expansion of our work and uses our issues of feral animal control and fire Volunteers: a critical part supporters’ contributions as effectively management across our reserve network. of the team as possible. We have also raised funds for the revegetation Volunteering engages people in the work We use every dollar that is donated to achieve projects that took place during 2013 on that we do and contributes substantially the best possible return on the investment, Monjebup North Reserve, south-west WA, to what we can achieve. Over the last twelve and aim to be an exemplar in effective and and Scottsdale Reserve, NSW. months, 176 volunteers have contributed transparent reporting. The number of supporters pledging us a the equivalent of over 16 000 hours to gift in their Will has grown by 11 per cent a wide range of projects. More than 80 and we’re extremely grateful for the foresight per cent of these hours were donated on and generosity of these people and the Bush Heritage reserves, where volunteers contributions they will make to protecting worked hard on weed control, feral animal our landscapes and our wildlife for control, infrastructure maintenance, plant generations to come. propagation, the planting of native trees and more. Volunteers also supported our Effective cost management and a diverse ecological monitoring program and this revenue-generation portfolio are critical year donated nearly 2200 hours to wildlife to our financial security and independence. and vegetation surveys. Increasing interest Our numbers of donors and supporters from volunteers based in regional centres are growing and their engagement is being has benefitted Charles Darwin, Eurardy, Top: Volunteers Nicky Rolls (left), Cliff Grant deepened and diversified. The organisation and Saraan Finney help Reserve Manager Nardoo Hills and Yourka reserves. is protected through comprehensive risk Paul Hales (second from right) with Siam weed control, Yourka Reserve, Qld. management, effective leadership and a Photograph by Leanne Hales highly engaged Board of Directors. 18 “I feel personally proud of your achievements. The commitment of Bush Heritage is incredible. So much is to be done but so much is already saving many species. The feedback is so important. I read every word. Keep up this marvellous work.”

Bev Anderson, supporter since 1998

Left: Volunteers planting seedlings, Scottsdale Reserve, NSW. Photograph by Brett Peden

In our Conservation Support Centre in Reserves receiving the Sources of income Melbourne, volunteers assisted with tasks greatest volunteer contribution for 2013–14 such as data entry, records management and supporter relations, contributing over 1500 Reserves volunteers hours hours of their time and energy. This year we Bon Bon 7 995 introduced some new and unique volunteer Boolcoomatta 28 3226 placements to capitalise on the valuable skills and expertise that volunteers bring to Carnarvon 1 1254 our organisation. Highly skilled volunteers Charles Darwin 23 2410 have assisted with the development of visitor Cravens Peak 174 information for reserves, conservation and Ethabuka Bequests 21% covenanting, database development Eurardy 9 440 and even policy and business systems Other donations and gifts 66% Monjebup North 5 157 Grants 5% reviews. We are increasingly using digital Interest / Investment income communications such as the Bushie Blog Nardoo Hills 22 495 (including Midlands Conservation Fund) 5% and Facebook to communicate and celebrate Naree 8 1009 Reserve income 2% Other income 1% volunteer achievements and to advertise Scottsdale 50 2594 Refer Concise Consolidated Financial Report – Notes 2a and 2b (page 38) volunteering opportunities. Yourka 11 722

Total 165 13 376 Breakdown of expenditure for 2013–14 Conservation Support Centre activities receiving the 3000+ donors greatest volunteer contribution joined our Friends of the Bush program Support areas volunteers hours

Science and 17 924 11% Research / Strategy and Systems rise in bequest notifications Supporter relations 6504 and fundraising Conservation management activities 54% 176 volunteers Conservation events, education gave over 16 000 hours TOTAL 23 1428 and supporter relations 11% Fundraising activities 10% of their time *Some volunteers helped at multiple sites and so Investment in new supporter fundraising 13% have been recorded more than once in these tables. Organisational support 13% Refer Concise Consolidated Financial Report – Notes 3a–3e (page 39)

19 Our values Staff satisfaction Goal 6 Early in 2013, the Board of Directors and Our annual Organisation Effectiveness Senior Management Team requested a review Survey seeks voluntary feedback from staff Ensure an of our stated organisational values. The result about perceptions of their employment was a revised set of statements of our values, experience at Bush Heritage. This survey is organisational which now include recognition of the assessed across five key categories: Leadership, culture of importance of health and safety, recognition Engagement, Capability, Results Focus and of the contributions of our supporters, and Values. An additional category relating to collaboration acknowledgment of the traditional owners Diversity was added in 2012. of the land on which we work (see page 2). and commitment The most recent survey held in October 2013 yielded an 82 per cent response rate from Staff retention our staff. The results indicated a substantial Bush Heritage provides and promotes Our staff retention rate of 85.6 per cent positive shift in staff perceptions across all a safe and healthy working environment. in 2013–14 was consistent with that of five categories compared to the previous the previous twelve months and within survey in 2012. Results returned to levels We invest in our people to ensure they have our target range. Our ongoing initiatives similar to or better than those achieved in the right skills and tools to succeed in their are intended to minimise voluntary staff 2010. All negative shifts experienced in 2012 roles. The unique abilities and experiences departures to no more than 15 per cent of have been reversed. they bring create a diverse, flexible, creative our employees in one year. They include: and inclusive work environment that fosters Results in the areas of Engagement and collaboration and commitment. • a review of our remuneration process Values continued to achieve best practice to ensure that it encourages and rewards levels, with satisfaction ratings of 81 per cent high achievement and 80 per cent respectively. Our Diversity • increased opportunities for staff results also improved to 80 per cent and we Our staff to experience other sections of the would like to achieve a stronger result yet for this category. Results in the Leadership, At the end of 2013–14 financial year, organisation, including spending time out on the reserves. In 2014, this will Capability and Results Focus categories Bush Heritage had 46 full-time and improved significantly from those achieved 30 part-time staff. Eight of our reserve include wilderness survival training for many staff at Boolcoomatta Reserve, in 2012. However, further development in staff are employed under job-share these areas is still required. arrangements. Nearly 50 per cent of SA, or Yourka Reserve, Qld staff are based regionally. Bush Heritage • implementation of service awards Survey results are the basis for the is an equal opportunity employer. recognising milestones in the length improvements that we make in our of employment. people-focused systems.

20 Opposite page: Media and Public Relations Team Leader Annette Ruzicka and Science and Research Manager Dr Jim Radford, Naree Station Reserve, NSW. Photograph by Peter Morris Left: Healthy Landscape Manager Peter Saunders helps track carp, Murrumbidgee River, Scottsdale Reserve, NSW. Photograph by Annette Ruzicka Below: Healthy Landscape Manager, Simon Smale sets pitfall traps in revegetation area, Monjebup North Reserve, WA. Photograph by Jessica Wyld Photography

Improvements are planned in the Learning and development Significant improvements made in following areas: 2013–14 included: Bush Heritage offers a mix of structured • Communication: we will review formal training and informal learning • enhancements to our partnership with communication methods, implement opportunities to enhance the performance 3Messaging to further improve the call-in and train in technologies that support of staff and build stronger teams so that we service within our field safety procedures communication, and build team cohesion. can continue to improve the work that we do. • redesign and redeployment of our Safety • Collaboration: we will encourage Grab Bags Highlights over the past year included: across-team relationships, reward • audit and redeployment of first aid kits • Aboriginal cross-cultural awareness across-team leadership and collaboration, to all sites and train in collaboration skills. programs for our Melbourne staff • establishment of a formal Personal Protective • training for all staff on the Psychology of • Leadership: we will encourage strong, Equipment Requirements Matrix unified leadership from members of Safety, Safety Culture and Collaboration, • requirements for all staff to complete the Senior Management Team, provide conducted pro bono by Sentis travel details forms when travelling, with sufficient support and direction to staff • incident response management training notification to a dedicated email inbox and clear messages regarding Bush and instruction for all staff in the use of Heritage’s future direction and the our Field Safety System • introduction of a new Workplace Inspections Policy and Checklist. opportunities it provides. • training for new managers and team • Career Progression and Development leaders run by the Australian Institute Our workers going into the field are Opportunities: we will develop succession of Management specifically trained in field safety procedures plans, clear career paths and opportunities • opportunities for staff to provide and in the use of the communications for professional development. caretaking duties on reserves equipment. This year, the first of several wilderness survival training programs was We also gauge satisfaction levels through • individual training opportunities for also run for staff and partners and more one-on-one meetings between staff and staff across a diversity of areas of activity. courses will be conducted in 2014. Vehicle their managers, interviews conducted safety equipment and first aid kits were with departing staff, and feedback provided Health, safety and environment reviewed, and automated defibrillators during monthly question and answer sessions. The safety of the people who come into were installed at several reserves and contact with Bush Heritage’s operations is offices. The Board of Directors received Staff recognition of the highest priority for our management appropriate training on its health and We acknowledge the achievements of our and the Board of Directors. Our safety systems safely responsibilities. people. Our performance management and outcomes are continually reviewed by processes ensure that staff are regularly our Health and Safety Committee, which has recognised for their efforts. Our remuneration representation from every level and area of structure will be reviewed in 2014 to ensure the organisation. it continues to encourage outstanding performance.

21 More achievements around the country Darwin Warddeken

Arnhem Land

Wunambal Northern Territory Gaambera Kimberley Inaugural World Indigenous Network Conference attended in Darwin.

New partnerships initiated with three traditional owner groups.

Birriliburu

Warddeken traditional burning. Photograph courtesy Warddeken Land Management Ltd Eurardy Mid-west WA Rangelands Gundawa Lesueur-Eneabba Charles Darwin Western Australia Perth Traditional burning undertaken by Wunambal Chereninup Gaambera rangers. Late dry season fires Creek Gondwana Link contained to less than five per cent of their country. Kojonup Yarrabee Beringa Formal partnership signed with Central Chingarrup Desert Native Title Services to support the Monjebup & Monjebup North Martu community on Birriliburu Indigenous Protected Area.

Bush Heritage invited to attend declarations of five new Indigenous Protected Areas. South Australia Professor Stephen Hopper addressed 120 Bush Heritage supporters in Albany. He reinforced the Cultural heritage assessments undertaken science and strategy behind Bush Heritage’s by traditional owners on both Bon Bon conservation efforts in Gondwana Link. and Boolcoomatta.

Ecological restoration work completed on Trial plots for buffel control at Bon Bon 95 per cent of the 400 ha of cleared land established by South Australian Buffel Grass on Monjebup North. Taskforce and control efforts continued.

Volunteers donated 3107 hours of labour Collaboration continued on feral goat and on Western Australian reserves. fox control with DEWNR Bounceback Project at Boolcoomatta.

New southern hairy-nosed wombat burrows discovered at Bon Bon.

Breeding of threatened plains-wanderers Bush Heritage reserves up to 1000 ha recorded at Boolcoomatta. up to 100 000 ha Mapping of rabbit warrens completed at up to 300 000 ha Bon Bon over an area of approx 82 000 ha. Bush Heritage partnerships Blues for the Bush, Charles Darwin Reserve. Volunteers donated 4221 hours of labour Indigenous partnership Photograph by Cineport Media on South Australian reserves. Regional partnership

22 Geographic regions Northern Savannah Queensland Arid Riverine Johnson grass and buffel grass control Grassy Ecosystems North efforts on Carnarvon Station intensified. Spencer Control of Siam weed on Yourka continued Southwest Floristic by staff, volunteers and contractors. Cape York Grassy Ecosystems South Southeast Coastal and Highlands Indigenous Land Use agreement signed with the Warrungu people for Yourka Balkanu Cultural Heritage Management Plan begun Waanyi Garawa Fan Palm with Wangkamadla Traditional Owners for Cravens Peak and Ethabuka.

Gulf Plains Yourka Control of woody weeds and Parkinsonia continued on Edgbaston. Einasleigh Uplands Volunteers donated 2194 hours of labour on Queensland reserves.

Mitchell Grass Downs Mulligan Edgbaston Cravens Peak Ethabuka Goonderoo Reedy Creek Carnarvon

Brigalow Brisbane Bulloo Currumbin Mareeba rock-wallabies. SA Arid Rangelands Naree Valley Photograph by Wayne Lawler / Ecopix Arid Recovery Paroo Warrego Bon Bon Northern Woodlands

Boolcoomatta Mawonga Station New South Wales

Canberra Baseline data for ongoing assessment of Sydney progress established by eco-blitz at Naree Station. Scottsdale ‘Nameless’ Sylvan Adelaide Tarcutta Hills Burrin Burrin More than 240 goats mustered from Naree Nardoo Hills Station and fencing underway to protect bore Brogo John Riverina Goldfields Kosciuszko 2 Coast wetlands and swamp complexes. Colahan Griffin Threatened little pied bat and striped faced dunnart recorded for the first time on Naree Station. Melbourne Crown road reserve next to Burrin Burrin purchased and added to the reserve. Liffey South Esk Pine Valley Friendly Beaches Volunteers donated more than 3795 hours Reserves Tasmanian Midlands of labour on NSW reserves. Tasmanian Midlandscapes Hobart

Victoria Populations of three threatened orchid species increased on J C Griffin Reserve.

Koala sighted on J C Griffin Reserve for the first time. Tasmania Rabbit populations on Nardoo Endangered Tunbridge buttercup discovered on land Hills Reserve controlled. protected under a stewardship agreement in the Midlands. Volunteers donated 2246 hours Volunteers donated six hours of labour on Chocolate Lillies, Nardoo Hills. of labour at Nardoo Hills. Tasmanian reserves. Photograph by Katrina Blake

23 Alexander Gosling Our partners Alexander Gosling spent his childhood on a farm in England getting involved in any way and supporters possible with local wildlife. As an engineer he never lost that passion, and now in Australia, his trips to the Outback have intensified his love for the land and for Australia’s unique and precious bush creatures. A lifelong interest in and love of the natural “I wanted to share this amazing environment world, have given them a deep understanding with the people who never get there, so I of the importance of conserving habitat. made a documentary about it with John Williamson called Song of the Outback. This is what attracted them to Bush Heritage. It featured Bush Heritage,” says Alexander. On his trips to the bush, Alexander saw the threats and the need to address them, and wanted to become involved with an organisation that was “actually doing Your vital role something significant and Bush Heritage Bush Heritage staff thank you for your certainly meets that criterion”. generosity and commitment over the “It is wonderful to meet the staff and see their last 22 years. However you choose to skill and commitment, and in particular to give, whether by providing financial meet the reserve managers, whose energy, support or through gifts of time and knowledge and creativity help protect these expertise, you are a vital part of our remote places.” organisation and the reason that we can continue our work to protect Alexander never misses an opportunity Australia’s natural heritage. to visit the reserves. “What is important to me is the chance to contribute actively: pulling out old fences, weeding around dams, and even trapping scorpions at night at Charles Darwin Reserve,” he says. Alexander is a Patron at Charles Darwin Reserve, WA. Top: Stripe-faced dunnart, Boolcoomatta Reserve, SA. Photograph by Annette Ruzicka 24 Alexander Gosling (centre) with his wife Wirat Sukprem and brother Andrew. Photograph courtesy Alexander Gosling Below left: Johanne Omeenyo, Umpila Traditional Owner. Photograph by Emma Ignjic Below centre: Alan Andersen and Maryanne McKaige. Photograph courtesy Maryanne McKaige Below right: Trish MacDonald and Joss Haiblan. Photograph by Katrina Blake

Johanne Omeenyo Trish MacDonald and Joss Haiblen Maryanne McKaige and Alan Andersen Johanne Omeenyo is an Umpila traditional Trish MacDonald and Joss Haiblen began owner. Her family group is from the Chester supporting Bush Heritage in the 1990s, Friends of the Bush Maryanne McKaige River area of Umpila country on the eastern when they saw the value private conservation and Alan Andersen have been donating Cape York Peninsula. Her country stretches groups could make in protecting Australia’s to Bush Heritage each month since 2002. from the rainforest-covered McIlwraith landscapes and wildlife. Maryanne’s and Alan’s studies and careers Range to the Great Barrier Reef, an area They have an active life in the outdoors and in ecology, and a lifelong interest in and that is home to nationally significant species long-term involvement with conservation love of the natural world, have given them such as the southern cassowary, palm movements in both Australia and Canada. a deep understanding of the importance cockatoo, spotted cuscus and the endemic In Australia, they have worked for park of conserving habitat to maintain the leaf-tailed gecko. services as rangers, project officers and ecological integrity of ecosystems. This Johanne is the project manager for the ecologists. With their two daughters they is what attracted them to Bush Heritage. Umpila partnership with Bush Heritage attended work parties at the reserves close “While most of our holidays over the years and also the Chairperson of the Umpila to their home in Canberra. have been spent in the bush and in our Healthy Country Steering Committee. Now retired, they spend three to four national parks, we realised that these areas “The aspirations of Umpila are basically months each year volunteering in remote don’t necessarily conserve sufficient habitat to get families back out there, so people parts of Australia with Bush Heritage and or create crucial corridors for movement can manage their country,” says Johanne. other conservation land managers. This has of species between habitats. This will be “Umpila country is a very significant country, involved everything from ecological burning particularly important if our ecosystems it’s rich and full of cultural values. That’s in the Tanami to visitor management in the are to adapt to changing climate and other why it’s important that we as young people Southwest Tasmanian Wilderness. They are impacts,” Maryanne says. go through the stepping stones of our currently developing interpretation materials Maryanne and Alan particularly support forefathers from the past, and continue to for Boolcoomatta Reserve. When at home in Bush Heritage’s strategic efforts to connect keep these places protected,” says Johanne. Canberra they help with kangaroo and reptile conservation reserves through corridors, monitoring, and rabbit and weed control at Umpila have produced a Healthy Country such as in Western Australia. Scottsdale Reserve. Plan, which Bush Heritage is helping the “Although we have not yet visited any Bush community to implement. “The contribution volunteers make to Bush Heritage reserves, we are content in the Heritage is significant and plays an important knowledge that they are there and serving part in expanding the community’s knowledge the purpose we support,” says Maryanne. about Australia’s natural heritage and the need “We look forward to visiting and contributing to conserve it,” say Trish and Joss. to Bush Heritage reserves more in coming Trish and Joss both look forward to growing years now that our family has grown up and their involvement with Bush Heritage, and we have more time.” volunteering at reserves across Australia.

25 2013 PwC Transparency Awards Bush Heritage Australia was once again pleased to be recognised as one of ten finalists in the revenue $5m to $30m category in the national 2013 PwC Transparency Awards for the quality and transparency of our reporting.

Tawny Frogmouth. Photograph by Wayne Lawler / Ecopix 26 Governance report

Governance statement Management’s responsibilities The Board has formally delegated Bush Heritage is a not-for-profit public company limited responsibility for Bush Heritage’s day-to-day operation and administration to the Chief by guarantee, incorporated under the Corporations Act Executive. The Chief Executive and the 2001. The purpose of the company is to secure and management team provide leadership to the organisation and are responsible for achieving protect Australia’s biodiversity and natural landscapes. the results set out in the Strategic Plan and The Board of Directors is responsible for the governance Annual Business Plan and are authorised by the Board to put in place policies and of the company and for ensuring that business activities practices, take decisions and actions and are directed towards achieving the company’s purpose. initiate activities to achieve those results.

This governance statement outlines how the Board Board oversight and meets that responsibility. committee structure The Board oversees and monitors performance by meeting at least quarterly, where it receives The responsibilities of • establishing and monitoring corporate detailed reports from management. Board the Board of Directors governance and legal compliance systems committees are established to provide advice • overseeing the fundraising strategy The Board fulfils its primary role and recommendations to the Board and in governing Bush Heritage by: • determining applications for membership management on particular aspects of Bush of the company Heritage’s operations and administration. • approving the overall direction, strategies and financial objectives of the company • approving and monitoring the progress Each committee operates under a charter of reserve acquisitions and partnerships, • overseeing accountability and approved by the Board that sets out the major capital expenditure and management control systems committee’s purpose, membership and of properties responsibilities. In 2013–14, the Board • appointing and reviewing the performance • approving the budget and monitoring committee structure, including names and of the Chief Executive financial and other reporting so that results responsibilities, was reviewed and updated • monitoring compliance with regulatory are accurately reported in accordance by the Board to strengthen alignment with requirements and ethical standards with legal and regulatory requirements Bush Heritage’s purpose and strategy. • monitoring the implementation of • reviewing succession planning for the Board The Board is currently supported by the policies, strategies and objectives of Directors and Bush Heritage executive, following committees, with membership • identifying the principal risks and taking and related development activities consisting primarily of directors with support reasonable steps to ensure that appropriate • deciding on any matter which is in excess from specialist advisers. systems of risk management, internal of the discretions or limits that have been compliance and control are in place delegated to senior managers.

27 Science and Conservation Marketing and Fundraising Governance Committee Committee Committee Chair: Louise Sylvan Chair: Dr Sue McIntyre Chair: Andrew Myer The Governance Committee advises on The Science and Conservation Committee The Marketing and Fundraising Committee matters relating to the effectiveness of the reviews and recommends the development, reviews and monitors the performance of Board, its committees and the role of the implementation and review of Bush Heritage’s Bush Heritage’s marketing and fundraising Chief Executive and Company Secretary. approach to biodiversity conservation. It strategies, including supporter and community The committee periodically reviews the reviews all science and conservation strategies engagement, and provides strategic guidance directors’ and Chief Executive’s performance, and policies, land acquisition proposals and and recommendations for further fundraising including recommending the appointment monitors reserve and partnership planning, growth and development. or re-election of directors and committee implementation, outcomes and achievements. advisors, succession planning and the terms Finance, Audit and Risk Committee of employment and remuneration for the Operations and Safety Committee Chief Executive. It reviews applications for Chair: David Rickards membership of Bush Heritage and oversees Chair: Nicholas Burton Taylor The Finance, Audit and Risk Committee the membership register. The Operations and Safety Committee reviews and then recommends approval provides advice on and monitors of the annual business plan and operating Directors implementation of the Health, Safety and budget, and monitors the organisation’s Environment Strategy, and maintains and longer term business modelling, investment All directors occupy non-executive positions reviews metrics for organisational safety strategies and financial sustainability, and receive no remuneration for their reporting. It also provides advice on areas security and prosperity. The committee services. However, out-of-pocket expenses that relate to fire management, and property reviews financial results, forecasts and such as travel may be reimbursed to enable acquisitions as they relate to infrastructure, overall financial management; monitors them to fulfil their duties. Bush Heritage’s staffing requirements, neighbour relations the management of financial assets, Constitution provides for an indemnity to and integration of new activities into including performance of the investment directors, Auditor, Company Secretary and existing operations. It provides advice on portfolio; and monitors auditing and the other officers. Appropriate director and strategy and the effectiveness of activities Risk Management Policy and procedures, officer indemnity insurance has been put relating to land management, procurement, including the oversight of legislative and in place. employment, visitation, access to reserves regulatory responsibilities. and sustainability. Gift Fund Committee Aboriginal Engagement Committee Chair: David Rickards Chair: Leanne Liddle The Gift Fund Committee monitors The Aboriginal Engagement Committee compliance with the Rules of the Bush advises on the development and Heritage Australia Fund, including Top: Storm over Boolcoomatta, SA. implementation of Bush Heritage’s requirements for listing on the Register Photograph by Peter Ashton Aboriginal Engagement Strategy and of Environmental Organisations and for Top right: Stoney Creek Frog, Policy, partnership frameworks and retaining Deductible Gift Recipient status. Yourka Reserve, Qld. on-country programs. Its responsibilities It reviews the annual gift fund report from Photograph by Wayne Lawler / Ecopix include monitoring, evaluating, providing management including the transaction Top far right: Kalbarri Cowslip Orchid, advice and recommending key areas for types and internal controls used to manage Eurardy Reserve, WA. improvement in Aboriginal engagement. the Gift Fund and associated bank accounts. Photograph by Lyla and John Hansen

28 Risk management Health, safety and environment Environmental regulation and performance Bush Heritage manages its organisational The safety of all people who come into risks in line with current Australian Standards contact with our operations is the highest Bush Heritage’s operations are subject to – AS/NZS ISP 31000:2009. Each risk is priority for Bush Heritage management significant environmental regulation under assigned a risk owner who is responsible for and the Board of Directors. the law of the Commonwealth and states. identifying and implementing appropriate All our activities are conducted in accordance Bush Heritage’s Health, Safety and treatment strategies to mitigate the risk or with the relevant statutes. Environment Management System is realise opportunities, and who is responsible reviewed by a Health and Safety Committee, for reporting on that risk to the relevant Stakeholder engagement which has representation from every team, committee(s) and Board. The Finance, Audit location and level within the organisation. Bush Heritage’s activities are conducted and Risk Committee oversees the execution Bush Heritage thereby ensures that it within broader communities of interest of the Risk Management Policy across the develops and monitors a system that can and we seek to actively engage with all organisation. The Board is responsible for be consistently applied and which fulfils stakeholders within those communities in ensuring that risks and opportunities are the requirements of all relevant Work, order to ensure, as much as possible, a high identified in a timely manner and considered Health and Safety legislation. level of consultation, mutual understanding against the organisation’s objectives, activities and cooperation. This approach directly and appetite for risk. The Board’s Operations and Safety benefits our conservation purposes because Committee is also responsible for reviewing Risks are identified and then scored against more successful outcomes may be achieved and maintaining metrics for safety reporting, measures of ‘likelihood’ (the probability through community-based action. Regular which are then reviewed by the directors of the risk eventuating) and ‘consequence’ communication with our stakeholders is at each Board meeting. (the impact, should the risk eventuate). made through direct meetings and interaction, To ensure that the ratings are appropriately Bush Heritage continues to review and and via communication channels such as chosen, the measures cover a range of impact seek ongoing improvements to its safety newsletters, website, email and social media, categories including: systems through the consultative committees as well as via the Annual Report. described above, and via consultation with • health, safety and environment external experts, with the aim of minimising Fundraising compliance • conservation the risks to workers associated with • financial our activities. Bush Heritage marketing and fundraising • legal and compliance activities comply with all relevant laws and • strategic Independent advice industry codes of practice. Bush Heritage holds all the required fundraising licences • environment / pollution The Board and Board committees have access for each state and territory of Australia and • service delivery to independent advice on legal, ecological, adheres to the specific licencing and reporting • reputation and image scientific, investment and taxation matters requirements of each (refer page 40). • stakeholder relations. as required. We are privileged to have a growing number In accordance with Bush Heritage’s Risk Code of conduct of people supporting Bush Heritage each year. Management Policy, a register of risks and ethical standards Through regular monitoring and engagement and their associated treatments and status with our donors, we ensure that the marketing is reviewed regularly by the Executive Each Director and staff member is expected and fundraising strategies and methods used Management Team at each committee to comply with relevant laws and the codes to recruit new donors and engage existing and Board meeting. of conduct of relevant professional bodies. donors are not only compliant with the law but meet best practice. Directors and staff are made aware of Bush Heritage’s Code of Conduct Policy. Using professional advice where necessary, directors must declare any conflict-of-interest matters and review these at every Board meeting.

29 Of course, there is a balance required between Treasurer’s report investing in our future and the work that’s needed now in securing and protecting our natural landscapes. In 2013–14, we also increased our funding of direct conservation management activities both on our own “Bush Heritage I’m pleased to report on a rewarding financial year reserves and in our partnerships. Our revenue fell from for Bush Heritage. $13.1 million in 2012–13 to $11.8 million in 2013–14. continues to However, this year there were no new major capital Planning for the recently completed 2013–14 financial fundraising campaigns such as those in the previous employ very year began in mid-2012. During this time our Board year for the purchase of Naree Station and additions of Directors and staff finalised the current Bush high standards to the Midlands Conservation Fund. Heritage five-year strategic plan, which includes as of financial one of its key goals to significantly increase the number As well as managing our annual revenues and expenses control and risk of people we engage with and who support our work. and maintaining a strong Balance Sheet, we are very management.” People support Bush Heritage in many valuable ways, aware of the need to leverage our resources to generate including through financial donations of course, but an even greater conservation impact. This leveraging also through volunteering their time, their hard work, effect comes in many forms and includes the gains made their expertise and their advocacy. We set a target to through our large-scale conservation partnerships with more than double the number of financial supporters Aboriginal people and our work in regional groups, from the number supporting us in 2012, with a goal in local communities and with neighbours, and in to reach 30 000 by 2017. ensuring that our conservation efforts are in concert with others. These snowballing effects aren’t captured Behind this strategy is the knowledge that every year we in our traditional financial reports, however they are are increasing the number of hectares we’re protecting, just as vital to achieving our purpose. either directly on our reserves or in partnership with others. These growing commitments are for the Finally, I report that Bush Heritage continues to long term and, though the generosity of our existing employ very high standards of financial control and supporters is our lifeblood and our inspiration, we risk management. This year, our in-house finance team must also ensure we attract ever greater numbers of has further enhanced the automation and integration people to our cause. In setting this challenging target we of our financial systems. The transparency of our have committed ourselves to increasing our investment external reporting was also recognised through our in promoting Bush Heritage to the broader community placing as one of ten category finalists in the 2013 PwC and in actively recruiting new supporters. Transparency Awards. With the support of our auditors, Ernst & Young, our processes are regularly reviewed We undertook our business planning and budgeting by the Board of Directors, the Finance, Audit and Risk for the latest financial year with this strategy in mind. Committee and senior management. These financial The financial surplus delivered in 2012–13 allowed and governance systems, along with our strategic and us to plan for a budget deficit in 2013–14 and we took business planning, ensure our supporters’ contributions the opportunity to increase our annual investment are applied to maximum conservation effect. in recruiting new supporters. This has been highly successful to date as we welcomed over 8000 new supporters this past financial year. By the end of March 2014, we enjoyed the support of over 18 000 active financial donors and this number continues to increase. David Rickards Treasurer

Top: Cravens Peak Reserve, Qld. Photograph by Peter Morris 30 Directors’ report

Your Directors present their report for the 12 months ended 31 March 2014. The following people have served as directors during the year and to the date of this report:

Louise Sylvan President Leanne Liddle Appointed to the Board in 2009 Appointed to the Board in 2009 Louise was CEO of the Australian National Leanne is a passionate scientist and lawyer who Preventive Health Agency from September 2011 has worked and lectured internationally, with until the Agency closed in June 2014. Previously, a particular focus on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara she served as a Commissioner of the Productivity Yankunytjatjara Lands (APY) in South Australia. Commission and Deputy Chair of the Australian Leanne currently works with the SA Department Competition and Consumer Commission. She of Premier and Cabinet as the manager of the also serves as a Board Member of the Social APY and West Coast region. She is a strong Enterprise Fund Australia. advocate for applying traditional Aboriginal use of fire in the landscape. Andrew Myer Vice President Appointed to the Board in 2007 Dr Sue McIntyre Andrew is principal of the AV Myer Group Appointed to the Board in 2007 of Companies. He has extensive experience Sue is a plant ecologist with over 30 years’ research in investment, property development and experience in academia and CSIRO focusing management, film production and philanthropy. on the management of native vegetation. Her He is a director of the Myer Family Company published work has been influential academically, Pty Ltd, a trustee of the Sidney Myer Fund and and has informed policy development and land Deputy Chair of the Melbourne International management for conservation. Film Festival. Dr Steve Morton David Rickards Treasurer Appointed to the Board in 2003, retired in 2013 Appointed to the Board in 2006 Steve is an Honorary Fellow with CSIRO in Alice David is the Co-founder of Social Enterprise Springs. He worked in CSIRO for 27 years as a Finance Australia. He was the Executive research scientist and executive, aiming to ensure Director and Global Head of Research at the effective application of science for community Macquarie Securities. benefit. Steve now devotes effort to arid-zone ecology, conservation and resource management. Nicholas Burton Taylor AM He is one of Australia’s most respected ecologists. Appointed to the Board in 2013 Nick has a longstanding commitment to rural Keith Tuffley communities and has extensive experience Appointed to the Board in 2006 in the Australian agricultural sector. He owns Keith is Founder and CEO of Neuw Ventures SA, Hillgrove Pastoral Pty Ltd and Kenny’s Creek a Swiss-based impact investing company, focused Angus, producers of beef, wool and grain. Nick on the creation and financing of sustainability is currently the Chair of the Country Education start-up businesses. He was previously Managing Foundation of Australia and Delta Agribusiness Director and Head of Investment Banking at and has served on the Boards of several listed Goldman Sachs in Australia. companies, many of which have a rural focus.

Chris Grubb Company Secretary Appointed to the Board in 2011 Chris is currently a non-executive Director of Gerard O’Neill has served as Company Secretary during several Asian fund management companies, the year and to the date of this report. Chairman of Boardroom Australia and a Trustee With support from legal advisors, the Company Secretary advises of The Australian Museum Foundation. He has the Board on the appropriate procedures for the conduct of previously served as Chairman of ASX listed meetings and the affairs of the company, as required by the companies and was a Director of investment bank Constitution and company law. Jardine Fleming for 22 years as well as serving as a Director of other public and not-for-profit organisations. He is a keen bird watcher and naturalist. 31 Short- and long-term Directors’ meetings Performance measures objectives and strategy Bush Heritage’s long-term Seven directors’ meetings were held during the financial Bush Heritage recognises the importance of key objective is to secure and year. Where the Director was not in office for the whole performance measures to monitor and gauge protect Australia’s biodiversity of the financial year, the number of meetings held performance of the organisation. With the development and natural landscapes. during the part-year period of office is shown in the of the Bush Heritage Australia Strategic Plan 2012–17, In the shorter term our first column. Details of directors’ meeting attendance the organisation now has clear goals and objectives that strategies and objectives are as follows. it will work towards achieving over the period covered are to: by the plan. 1. double the area Directors’ Directors’ secured for conservation, meetings held meetings Currently Bush Heritage utilises a range of performance by direct acquisition while in office attended measures. These measures have been developed at a and partnership, from Louise Sylvan 7 7 variety of levels within the organisation and in response 3 million to 6 million ha Andrew Myer 7 7 to a range of drivers. Some of the tools and reporting 2. maintain and improve David Rickards 7 7 methods used currently in the organisation, which will conservation management Nick Burton Taylor 7 7 be continually reviewed and further integrated into outcomes Chris Grubb 7 6 future performance reporting, include: 3. demonstrate leadership Leanne Liddle 7 5 and innovation in • conservation scorecards, for reporting on nature conservation Sue McIntyre 7 6 conservation outcomes achieved at reserves or with partners. Scorecards are derived from our central 4. increase to 30 000 the Steve Morton 3 3 number of people we Keith Tuffley 7 6 conservation management database (Miradi) used engage with and who by Bush Heritage as part of our adoption of the Open support our work Standard for the Practice of Conservation, which is an Principal activities 5. build the financial international planning and adaptive-management sustainability and Bush Heritage’s principal activities, consistent methodology operational capacity with its Constitution, are to: of Bush Heritage • monthly financial reporting • protect the natural environment through the 6. ensure an organisational • quarterly ‘traffic-light’ reporting on the progress culture of collaboration acquisition and preservation of interests in or of activities set out in the business plan. and commitment. associated with land or water that is of high conservation value or environmental significance Members’ guarantee • preserve, restore or maintain the conservation In accordance with the company’s Constitution, value or environmental significance of the natural each member is liable to contribute a maximum environment through the planned management of $10 in the event that the company is wound up. of the company’s property As at 31 March 2014 the number of members was 65. • obtain funds or other property through donations, bequests, public appeals, special events and from Auditors’ independence the corporate sector The Auditors’ Declaration of Independence appears • provide financial or in-kind assistance to others on page 41 and forms part of the Directors’ Report to protect and manage the natural environment for the year ended 31 March 2014. • provide advice to others about how to protect and manage the natural environment Rounding • dispose of any land or water owned by the company which is assessed to be outside of our conservation The company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Class aims or which can be better conserved and protected Order 98/100 dated 10 July 1998 and, in accordance by another entity with that Class Order, amounts in the Financial Report have been rounded off to the nearest thousand dollars, • buy or sell any trading credits, sequestration rights unless otherwise stated. or other similar interest in land, air or water • pursue business, sponsorship and other appropriate Signed in accordance with the resolution of the relationships with the public and private sector to Board of Directors made pursuant to Section 298(2) achieve the objects of Bush Heritage. of the Corporations Act 2001:

Louise Sylvan President 13 June 2014

32 Concise consolidated financial report for the year ended 31 March 2014

This Concise Consolidated Financial Report should The Concise Consolidated Financial Report cannot Above: Butterfly orchid, be read in conjunction with the Directors’ Report be expected to provide as full an understanding of Monjebup Reserve, WA. and the Annual Report, which provide details of the the financial performance, financial position and Photograph by Jessica Wyld Photography achievements and activities of Bush Heritage Australia financing and investing activities of Bush Heritage (Bush Heritage) and its controlled entity (Midlands and its controlled entity as the Full Consolidated Conservation Fund) during the financial year ended Financial Report. Further financial information can 31 March 2014. be obtained from the Full Consolidated Financial Report, which is available free of charge and on The Concise Consolidated Financial Report is an request to Bush Heritage. Further details of Bush extract from the Full Consolidated Financial Report Heritage’s conservation activities can be found in for the year ended 31 March 2014. The financial the Annual Report. statements and specific disclosures included in the Concise Consolidated Financial Report have been derived from the Full Consolidated Financial Report in accordance with the Accounting Standards.

33 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended 31 March 2014

The Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 2014 2013 should be read in conjunction Notes $’000 $’000 with the accompanying notes. Revenue Supporter contributions and grants 2(a) 11,795 13,132 Interest and investment income 662 629 Reserve income 2(b) 246 258 Other income 153 162 Total Revenue 12,857 14,181 Expenses Conservation management activities 3(a) 7,261 6,602 Conservation events, education and supporter relations 3(b) 1,452 1,407 Fundraising activities 3(c) 1,297 1,275 Investment in new supporters 3(d) 1,696 598 Organisational support 3(e) 1,778 1,768 Total Expenses 13,484 11,650 Surplus / (Deficit) Before Tax (627) 2,531 Income tax – – Net Surplus / (Deficit) (627) 2,531 Other Comprehensive Income Net fair value gains / (losses) on available-for-sale financial assets 486 628 Income tax on items of other comprehensive income – – Other comprehensive income for the period, net of tax 486 628 Total comprehensive income for the period (141) 3,159

Discussion and Analysis – Consolidated This additional investment, fully expensed in 2014, Statement of Comprehensive Income has attracted thousands of new supporters to Bush Trends in Revenue and Net Surplus Heritage. This will not only increase our future revenues but also create many more volunteering The previous (2013) financial year delivered a net opportunities and advocates for our cause. surplus result (before unrealised increases in the value of investments held) of $2 531 000. This surplus These past two years, taken as a whole, have therefore included significant capital amounts donated during delivered planned positive operating results. This has the year that were applied to the acquisition of been achieved along with the addition of the highly Naree Station in northern NSW and to the Midlands significant Naree Station to our conservation reserve Conservation Fund. These amounts, although fully portfolio, an increase to the Midlands Conservation allocated to capital purposes in 2013, did not give Fund and a significant investment in building our rise to operating expenses and therefore they remain supporter base for the future. within the reported surplus for 2013. Effects of Significant Economic or Other Events Bush Heritage activities continued to be very well There were no material impacts on performance as supported in 2014, with supporter contributions a result of external events. The unrealised gains in the and grants (excluding the large 2013 capital amounts) fair value of the Bush Heritage investment portfolio increasing from 2013 to 2014. This sustained level have again exceeded the relevant industry benchmarks. of revenue meant that Bush Heritage could continue its core activities as well as implement new initiatives Dividends in the 2014 financial year. Bush Heritage is a company limited by guarantee Bush Heritage did not receive capital donations of the and does not have issued share capital. As such, same magnitude in 2014 as in 2013. This has resulted Bush Heritage does not pay dividends. All surpluses in the reduction to total revenue year on year. are reinvested in the company to be used for conservation purposes in future financial years. The 2013 result also allowed Bush Heritage to actively plan for a budget deficit in 2014. A significant extra budget allocation was made to increase our investment in attracting new supporters.

34 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as at 31 March 2014

The Consolidated Statement 2014 2013 of Financial Position should Notes $’000 $’000 be read in conjunction with ASSETS the accompanying notes. Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 2,939 3,733 Trade and other receivables 454 291 Total Current Assets 3,393 4,024 Non-Current Assets Investments 4 11,059 10,059 Property, plant and equipment 26,691 27,214 Intangibles – computer software 67 88 Total Non-Current Assets 37,817 37,361 TOTAL ASSETS 41,210 41,385 LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Trade and other payables 758 816 Provisions 652 545 Interest-bearing liabilities 133 140 Total Current Liabilities 1,543 1,501 Non-Current Liabilities Provisions 182 169 Interest-bearing liabilities 95 183 Total Non-Current Liabilities 277 352 TOTAL LIABILITIES 1,820 1,853 NET ASSETS 39,390 39,532 EQUITY Retained earnings – – Equity reserves 5 39,390 39,532 TOTAL EQUITY 39,390 39,532

Discussion and Analysis – Consolidated The investments balance has risen due to a net increase Statement of Financial Position in the financial securities held as well as the increase Changes in the Composition of Assets and Liabilities in market value of the overall portfolio. The majority of these funds were set aside between 2005 and 2010 The Consolidated Statement of Financial Position and have since been retained in managed investment shows that Bush Heritage retains a strong capital portfolios in order to enhance the financial security base with $39 390 000 in net assets, representing of the company. Capital additions have been made the accumulated supporter contributions and to the fund in each of the past two financial years and other earnings that Bush Heritage has received the fund’s market value has also further appreciated. since inception and which have been applied to the acquisition of land and other capital assets for Relationship between Debt and Equity conservation purposes. Bush Heritage does not have any borrowings other There have been no significant changes to the overall than equipment finance leases. Total equity within composition of assets and liabilities from 2013 to 2014. the consolidated entity reflects the carrying value of At the detail level, cash balances have been reduced as all Bush Heritage-owned properties as well as the value the company has purchased new land holdings, plant of Bush Heritage investments, working capital and the and equipment and has made financial investments. Midlands Conservation Fund. One land holding was also sold with a conservation covenant in place during 2014. This led to the overall slight reduction in the property, plant and equipment balance.

35 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 31 March 2014

The Consolidated Statement Retained Equity of Changes in Equity should Earnings Reserves Total be read in conjunction with Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 the accompanying notes. At 1 April 2013 – 39,532 39,532 Surplus / (deficit) for the period (627) – (627) Other comprehensive income –486486 Total comprehensive income for the period (627) 486 (142) Net transfer to Bush Heritage General Reserve 837 (837) – Net transfer to Bush Heritage Restricted Funds Reserve (39) 39 – Net transfer to Midlands Conservation Fund Reserve (170) 170 – At 31 March 2014 5 – 39,390 39,390

2013 2013 2013 $’000 $’000 $’000 At 1 April 2012 30,807 5,566 36,373 Surplus / (deficit) for the period 2,531 – 2,531 Other comprehensive income – 628 628 Total comprehensive income for the period 2,531 628 3,159 Net transfer to Bush Heritage General Reserve (32,742) 32,742 – Net transfer to Bush Heritage Restricted Funds Reserve 2,801 (2,801) – Net transfer to Midlands Conservation Fund Reserve (3,397) 3,397 – At 31 March 2013 5 – 39,532 39,532

Discussion and Analysis – Consolidated Other comprehensive income, being entirely comprised Statement of Changes in Equity of the net fair value gains or losses on financial assets Changes in the Composition of the Components recorded for the financial year, is directly allocated to of Equity the Net Unrealised Gains / (Losses) Reserve. The consolidated equity of Bush Heritage and its The Bush Heritage General Reserve was first established subsidiary, the Midlands Conservation Fund, is in the previous (2013) financial year. The balance maintained within four defined equity reserves, being of this equity reserve represents the accumulated the Bush Heritage General Reserve, the Bush Heritage supporter contributions and other earnings that Bush Restricted Funds Reserve, the Net Unrealised Gains / Heritage has received since inception and which have (Losses) Reserve and the Midlands Conservation Fund been applied to the acquisition of land and other Reserve. These individual equity reserves are detailed capital assets for conservation purposes. The opening and further described in Note 5. balance of Retained Earnings as at 1 April 2012 was transferred to this newly established reserve in 2013 The Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity in order to reflect the past application of these funds illustrates that the reported surplus or deficit for each to our conservation purposes. financial year is firstly recognised within Retained Earnings and then allocated out of Retained Earnings and into the relevant equity reserves according to the amounts applicable to each reserve.

36 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 31 March 2014

The Consolidated Statement 2014 2013 of Cash Flows should be $’000 $’000 read in conjunction with Cash Flows from Operating Activities the accompanying notes. Receipts from supporter contributions and other sources 11,923 13,539 Payments to suppliers and employees (12,360) (10,629) Interest and dividends received 272 174 Net Cash from Operating Activities (165) 3,084 Cash Flows Applied to Investing Activities Proceeds from the sale of investments 1,065 380 Purchase of investments (1,233) (3,294) Purchase of land (222) (878) Proceeds from the sale of land 450 – Proceeds from the sale of plant and equipment – 2 Purchase of plant and equipment (467) (760) Purchase of software (6) – Net Cash applied to Investing Activities (413) (4,550) Cash Flows Applied to Financing Activities Payment of finance lease liabilities (215) (167) Net Cash Applied to Financing Activities (215) (167) Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (794) (1,633) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 3,733 5,366 Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period 2,939 3,733

Discussion and Analysis – Consolidated Changes in Cash Flows from Investing Activities Statement of Cash Flows The 2013 to 2014 change in cash flows from investing Changes in Cash Flows from Operating Activities activities is the corollary of the change in cash flows The previous (2013) financial year delivered a net from operating activities for the same period. As positive cash flow from operations of $3 084 000. described in the previous paragraphs, in 2013 there This included significant capital amounts donated was a significant net cash inflow from operating during the year that were applied to the acquisition of activities that was then applied to capital investments. Naree Station in northern NSW and to the Midlands This resulted in the significant net cash outflow from Conservation Fund. These amounts, although fully investing activities in 2013. This significant net cash allocated to capital purposes in 2013, did not give rise outflow from investing activities has not been repeated to operating cash outflows and therefore they remain in 2014 as Bush Heritage did not receive capital within the reported operating cash surplus for 2013. donations of the same high magnitude in 2014 and therefore did not repeat that level of capital investment In the current year (2014) Bush Heritage did not receive spending. However, smaller investments were made donated capital cash inflows of the same magnitude in 2014 including the purchase of additional land as in 2013. This has resulted in the reduction in net adjoining our existing Nardoo Hills (Victoria) and operating cash flows to a small deficit in 2014. Oura Oura (Tasmania) reserves.

Servicing and Repayment of Borrowings Bush Heritage does not currently hold any borrowings, other than for finance leases on equipment.

37 Notes to the Concise Consolidated The consolidated financial statements in this Concise Financial Statements for the year Consolidated Financial Report comprise the financial ended 31 March 2014 statements of Bush Heritage and its subsidiary, the Midlands Conservation Fund Ltd (MCF). Note 1. Corporate Information and Basis of Preparation • MCF is a separate public company limited by guarantee, jointly managed by Bush Heritage and Bush Heritage is a not-for-profit public company the Tasmanian Land Conservancy. MCF has its own limited by guarantee. Members are nominated and Board of Directors and constitutional objectives. determined in accordance with the Constitution. If the company is wound up then each member is • Under the MCF Constitution, Bush Heritage has required to contribute a maximum of $10 towards the capacity to control MCF and therefore is required meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. by Accounting Standards to consolidate MCF into As at 31 March 2014 the number of members was this Concise Consolidated Financial Report. 65. Bush Heritage is listed on the Commonwealth • Under the Accounting Standards, control is said Government’s Register of Environmental to exist because Bush Heritage has the right to Organisations, certifying it as a Deductible Gift direct the activities of MCF and through that right Recipient, which authorises Bush Heritage to issue has the ability to affect the returns it derives from tax-deductible receipts for donations over $2. MCF. The returns to Bush Heritage are indirect, This Concise Consolidated Financial Report has been non-financial returns that arise because MCF’s prepared in accordance with the requirements of the conservation objectives contribute directly to Corporations Act 2001 and Australian Accounting Bush Heritage’s conservation objectives. Under Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports. The the MCF Constitution, MCF cannot pay financial Concise Consolidated Financial Report is presented dividends to Bush Heritage or to any other member. in Australian dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest thousand dollars ($’000) unless otherwise Note 2. Revenue stated, using the option available to Bush Heritage Note 2(a). Supporter Contributions and Grants under ASIC Class Order 98/100. Bush Heritage is

an entity to which the Class Order applies. 2014 2013 $’000 $’000 Note 1(a). Significant Accounting Policies Donations and gifts 8,428 9,871 The financial statements and specific disclosures Grants 636 317 required by AASB 1039 are an extract of, and have Bequests 2,730 2,944 been derived from, Bush Heritage’s Full Consolidated Total Supporter Contributions 11,795 13,132 Financial Report for the year ended 31 March 2014. and Grants Other information included in the Concise Consolidated Financial Report is consistent with Note 2(b). Reserve Income Bush Heritage’s Full Consolidated Financial Report.

A full description of the accounting policies adopted 2014 2013 $’000 $’000 by Bush Heritage is provided in the Full Consolidated Revenue from the Financial Report. rendering of services: The current financial period is the year ended 31 March Agistment / cropping 30 31 2014. Comparative amounts for 2013 have been restated Rent and services 141 105 where necessary to be consistent with the accounting Other 75 122 policies adopted in the current financial period. Total Reserve Income 246 258

38 Note 3. Expenses Note 3(f). Capital Expenditure Not Included in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Note 3(a). Conservation Management In addition to the operating expenses recognised in Conservation management expenses include the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the following key items: Bush Heritage directs donated funds towards items • Operation of Bush Heritage’s reserves, including of capital expenditure, the most significant being the staff costs, associated ownership costs such as rates purchase of freehold and leasehold properties for the and taxes, expenses associated with operating each establishment of Bush Heritage’s conservation reserves. reserve’s infrastructure, preparing management plans Plant and equipment is also purchased by Bush Heritage for reserves; expenses associated with conservation for use in its conservation operations, which represents actions such as fire management, feral animal further capital expenditure not included in the control, weed control, revegetation; expenses related Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. to ecological survey, monitoring and evaluation; Note 4. Investments organising volunteer support; organising field trips

to reserves; education; and building and managing relations with other land owners. 2014 2013 $’000 $’000 • Development of conservation policy and strategy (a) Investments held by company including staff costs, expenses relating to assessment Bush Heritage Australia 7,597 6,765 of potential new reserves and partnerships; and Midlands Conservation Fund 3,462 3,294 expenses relating to development and maintenance Closing Balance 11,059 10,059 of landscape-scale plans and partnerships. (b) Investments held by Nature • Support for land management partnerships Fixed interest 946 390 including staff costs, expenses associated with Property trusts 831 408 preparing management plans; expenses associated Shares Australian 3,682 3,089 with conservation actions such as fire management, Shares International 874 390 feral animal control, weed control, revegetation; Term deposits 4,004 5,567 and expenses related to ecological survey, monitoring Other 723 215 and evaluation. Closing Balance 11,059 10,059 Note 3(b). Conservation Events, (c) Reconciliation of movement in investments Education and Supporter Relations Opening balance 10,059 5,803 This covers expenses associated with online and Additions 1,472 3,894 newsletter communications, media engagement Disposals (958) (266) and the management of the website, bequestor and Gain / (Loss) in fair value 486 628 of investments other events, management of the supporter database, Closing Balance 11,059 10,059 customer service and other conservation-related communications. Professional investment managers are engaged Note 3(c). Fundraising Activities to manage Bush Heritage’s investment portfolio This covers expenses incurred in establishing the case (excluding investments held in the Midlands for and then asking supporters for donations and gifts Conservation Fund) to generate income to assist to support Bush Heritage’s conservation activities. with reserve management costs. The fundraising campaign for each new land acquisition aims to raise Note 3(d). Investment in New Supporters funds in addition to the purchase price to create an endowment to help cover future management costs. This covers the cost of recruiting new financial This fundamental strategy has led to the creation of supporters to ensure the ongoing viability of the significant investment portfolio currently held Bush Heritage’s conservation activities. by Bush Heritage. From time to time, also included Note 3(e). Organisational Support in the investment portfolio will be investment assets that have been directly gifted to Bush Heritage that This covers activities concerned with governance may be outside the overall investment strategy that is and business systems, regulatory compliance, finance, otherwise adopted. Investments held in the Midlands information technology, employee development and Conservation Fund are directly overseen by the conditions, worker safety and day-to-day administration Midlands Conservation Fund Board of Directors of Bush Heritage. All Bush Heritage Board directors and as at 31 March 2014 are entirely held in term provide their time on a pro bono basis. However, deposits placed with Australian banks. some costs are incurred in travel and communications expenses to facilitate meetings of the Board.

39 Note 5. Equity Reserves

2014 2013 $’000 $’000 Bush Heritage General Reserve (i) Opening balance 32,742 – Net transfer to Bush Heritage General Reserve (837) 32,742 Closing balance 31,905 32,742 Bush Heritage Restricted Funds Reserve (ii) Opening balance 2,544 5,345 Additional restricted funds received 3,246 3,760 Restricted funds expended or acquitted (3,207) (6,561) Closing balance 2,583 2,544 Midlands Conservation Fund Reserve (iii) Opening balance 3,397 – Net surplus attributable to Midlands Conservation Fund Reserve 170 3,397 Closing balance 3,567 3,397 Net Unrealised Gains / (Losses) Reserve (iv) Opening balance 849 221 Net valuation gains / (losses) taken to equity during the period 486 628 Closing balance 1,335 849 Total Equity Reserves 39,390 39,532

(i) The balance of the Bush Heritage General Reserve Note 7. State and Territory Government represents the accumulated supporter contributions Fundraising Legislation Requirements and other earnings that Bush Heritage has received As a national organisation, Bush Heritage conducts since inception and which have been applied to fundraising operations in all states and territories. the acquisition of land and other capital assets for Several state and territory governments have specific conservation purposes. licensing and reporting requirements aimed at informing and protecting the interests of donors. (ii) The Bush Heritage Restricted Funds Reserve Bush Heritage holds the following licences: represents funds received by Bush Heritage Australia that have been tied by the company to specific future Australian Capital Charitable Collections Act 2003, conservation-related purposes and which remain Territory Licence No. L19000280 unspent as at the date of these financial statements. New South Wales Charitable Fundraising Act 1991, Fundraising Licence (Authority (iii) The Midlands Conservation Fund (MCF) to Fundraise) CFN 17412 Reserve is held separately within MCF Ltd as a Queensland Collection Act 1966, Certificate of Sanction No. 4954 capital fund, the earnings from which are to provide Tasmania Collections for Charities Act 2001, for annual stewardship payments to landholders Approval 10/02/09 F1A-320 for long-term protection and management of the Victoria Fundraising Appeals Act 1998, Tasmanian Midlands. Registration Number 9971.12 South Australia Charitable Purposes Act 1939, (iv) The Net Unrealised Gains / (Losses) Reserve Licence not required records net movements in the investment portfolio Western Australia Charitable Collections Act 1946, arising from ongoing revaluations of the portfolio Licence No: 21446 assets to market values. There are no applicable fundraising licencing Note 6. Subsequent Events requirements in the Northern Territory. No circumstance has arisen since the end of the The complete declaration required under the financial year which is not otherwise dealt with in this Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) is available Concise Consolidated Financial Report or in the Full in the Full Consolidated Financial Report. Consolidated Financial Report that has significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of the company, the results of those operations or the state of affairs of the company in subsequent financial periods.

40 Directors’ declaration In the opinion of the directors of Bush Heritage Australia the accompanying Concise Consolidated Financial Report for the year ended 31 March 2014: (a) has been derived from and is consistent with the Full Consolidated Financial Report for the financial period (b) complies with Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports. Made in accordance with a resolution of directors.

Louise Sylvan David Rickards President Treasurer Melbourne 13 June 2014

Auditor’s declaration

Ernst & Young Tel: +61 3 9288 8000 8 Exhibition Street Fax: +61 3 8650 7777 Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia ey.com/au GPO Box 67 Melbourne VIC 3001

Auditor’s Independence Declaration to the Directors of Bush Heritage Australia

In relation to our audit of the financial report of Bush Heritage Australia for the financial year ended 31 March 2014, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 or any applicable code of professional conduct.

Ernst & Young Kester Brown Partner Melbourne 13 June 2014

41 Auditor’s report

Ernst & Young Tel: +61 3 9288 8000 8 Exhibition Street Fax: +61 3 8650 7777 Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia ey.com/au GPO Box 67 Melbourne VIC 3001

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Bush Heritage Australia Report on the Concise Financial Report We have audited the accompanying concise financial report of Bush Heritage Australia which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 March 2014, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended and related notes, derived from the audited financial report of Bush Heritage Australia for the year ended 31 March 2014. The concise financial report also includes discussion and analysis and the directors’ declaration. The concise financial report does not contain all the disclosures required by the Australian Accounting Standards. Directors’ Responsibility for the Concise Financial Report The Directors are responsible for the preparation of the concise financial report in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports, and the Corporations Act 2001, and for such internal controls as the directors determine are necessary to enable the preparation of the concise financial report. Auditor’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the concise financial report based on our audit procedures which were conducted in accordance with ASA 810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements. We have conducted an independent audit, in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards, of the financial report of Bush Heritage Australia for the year ended 31 March 2014. We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the financial report in our report dated 14 June 2014. The Australian Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report for the year is free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the concise financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the concise financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal controls relevant to the entity’s preparation of the concise financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal controls. Our procedures included testing that the information in the concise financial report is derived from, and is consistent with, the financial report for the year, and examination on a test basis, of audit evidence supporting the amounts, discussion and analysis, and other disclosures which were not directly derived from the financial report for the year. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion whether, in all material respects, the concise financial report complies with AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports and whether the discussion and analysis complies with the requirements laid down in AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Independence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. Auditor’s Opinion In our opinion, the concise financial report, including the discussion and analysis and the directors’ declaration of Bush Heritage Australia for the year ended 31 March 2014 complies with Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports.

Ernst & YoungKester Brown Melbourne Partner 13 June 2014

A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

42 Thank you

Without the generosity and support of thousands of people none of our work would be possible.

Leading Benefactors Supporting Partners Bequests Allens, The Nature Conservancy and Andyinc Foundation, Birdlife Australia – Bush Heritage gratefully received bequests The Nature Conservancy’s David Thomas North Queensland, Margaret Brownlie, from the estates of the following supporters: Challenge Greg Burns, Dr Philippa H Currie, Annie Laurie Violet Abel, Violet Cleverdon Austin, Danks Charitable Trust, Margaret Dawbarn Virginia Tyler Leland Bonawit, James Edward Key Partners Foundation managed by Perpetual Ltd, Alexander Bond, Saxon Marjorie Condon, Department of Primary Industries – New Australian Government’s Clean Energy Marion Belfrage Field, Mary Griffith, South Wales, Diversicon Environmental Future Biodiversity Fund, Geoff Giles, Heather Fairlie Gulline, Donald Murray Foundation, Heather Doig and Rob Koczkar, Graham Turner, JB Hi-Fi and Staff, Maxwell Hart, Joan M Hastwell, Judith Catherine Iltis, endota spa, Foundation for Rural and Family Foundation, The Miller Foundation Thomas Kenneth Macdonald, Jennifer Mary Regional Renewal, The Elizabeth Gabler Ltd, Beth, Phil and Rosalie Schultz, South Morrison, Clement Skevington, Barbara Charitable Trust managed by The Trust Coast Natural Resource Management Inc, Helen Thompson, John Frederick Turner, Company of Perpetual Ltd, Garry White Michael Tichbon, Elizabeth Xipell Douglas James Western, Sally Wykes Foundation, Chris and Gina Grubb, Haly and Company, Harris Estate Charitable Major Partners Volunteers Gift, Hill Family Conservation Foundation, Terry and Caroline Bellair, Besen Family Hunter Hall, Institute of Wildlife Research Volunteer effort is a vital part of Bush Foundation, S C Carlton, Centre for Ecosystem – University of Sydney, Andrew Keayes and Heritage’s capability. Of special mention Management – Edith Cowan University, Vanessa Lansdown, Letcombe Foundation, are the contributions of: Alexander Gosling and Wirat Sukprem, Geoffrey and Roslyn Morgan, The Mundango Richard Alcorn, David Berg (USA), Stan and Irene Johanson, Lotterywest, Charitable Trust, Reece Australia Limited, Peter and Margaret Calder, Sue Connelly, Native Vegetation Council of South Australia, David Rickards in memory of Helen Norma Gates, Bryan West School of Geography and Environmental Rickards, Estate of Robin Vincent Udny Planning – University of Queensland Rothwell managed by Perpetual Ltd, Russell Kennedy Lawyers, Sue Russell and the late Chaskiel Wajnberg, Sentis, Brian and Diana Snape, The Trust Company of Perpetual Ltd, Top: Major Mitchell’s cockatoos, Joan Viner, Jim and Sylvia Warner, Wright Naree Station Reserve, NSW. Family Bequest Photograph by Gerard O’Neill

This publication uses 100 per cent post-consumer waste recycled fibre, made with a carbon neutral manufacturing process, using vegetable-based inks. Design by iconinc.com.au 43 Bush Heritage Australia ABN 78 053 639 115 | Level 5, 395 Collins Street | PO Box 329 Flinders Lane Melbourne, VIC 8009 T: (03) 8610 9100 T: 1300 628 873 (1300 NATURE) F: (03) 8610 9199 E: [email protected] W: www.bushheritage.org.au

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Bush Heritage Australia is a national not-for-profit organisation committed to protecting Australia’s biodiversity and the capacity of ecosystems to deliver the ‘services’ on which all living things depend. Bush Heritage has a proven and practical method for achieving these goals: we carefully select, purchase and manage land with outstanding conservation values and work in partnership with others to protect ecosystems and species. Bush Heritage Australia has Deductible Gift Recipient status.