History Project Stories
FERNLEIGH PARK LANDCARE
Fernleigh Park is located approximately 10 minutes’ drive south of Queanbeyan, the area was established in 1986.
Jerrabomberra Creek flows through the area, shaping a landscape of flat pasture and gently sloping land that falls towards the creek. The soils are generally rocky, with sandier material occurring along the creek line.
Residents and members of Landcare have undertaken extensive plantings of trees and shrubs along Jerrabomberra Creek, the streets in Fernleigh and on private land since Fernleigh Park was established. The aim is to create and re-establish vegetation links between the remnant native woodlands. The focus is on creek bank stabilization, providing habitat for the endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo, and maintenance of vegetation patches to allow the movement of small birds.
Remaining eucalypts indicate the likely presence of Yellow Box–Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland, which is listed as a threatened ecological community. The drier, higher ground may also support dry sclerophyll eucalypt species.
The bushland has been substantially degraded by decades of overgrazing. Bushfires also affected the area during the 1980s.
Fernleigh Park Landcare
Landcare groups in the area began in 2005 and have continued with a small (5-10 members) but active group of participants. Bruce Davies provided the initial leadership, followed later by Bill Hall. Other members have included Malcolm Brooks, Chris Forsey, Paul White, Bob Hartley and Bruce Taloni.
The group have planted an estimated 10,000 trees (some listed below) at Fernleigh, including more than two kilometres of plantings along Jerrabomberra Creek. Species include many eucalypts and several smaller acacias.
Fernleigh Park Landcare joined Queanbeyan Landcare in November 2008, primarily for insurance purposes.
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E. bridgesiana
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E. melliodora
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E. pauciflora
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Acacia rubida
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Acacia mearnsii
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E. polyanthemos
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E. rossii
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E. rubida
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Acacia dealbata
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Kunzea ericoides
“It’s been so rewarding here to see the growing wildlife numbers and variety over the years as we’ve restored vegetation. ”
Map of Fernleigh Park showing plantings along creeks and streets and future plantings.
Ongoing work:
Creek and street planting
Weeding/spraying
Watering of trees
Fencing
Work at Fernleigh is funded through grants and is usually linked to big community events, with significant numbers of volunteers arriving to help and take part in the barbeque afterwards. These gatherings not only support important projects but also strengthen community spirit and provide a great opportunity for locals to connect.
The People
Bill Hall
Bill Hall was President of Queanbeyan Landcare from 2017 to 2023, a Member since 2013 and Member of the Fernleigh Park Landcare group from 2002. Now a Lifetime Member of Queanbeyan Landcare his role in planting programs in Fernleigh Park are impressive.
In 2022, Mick Doyle wrote this about Bill after Bill was awarded Life Membership of Queanbeyan Landcare:
“Your leadership and program of plantings within our Fernleigh Park Community has left a wonderful legacy for future generations. All the very best for the future and congratulations on the well deserved award.”
Click below to see the work we are currently undertaking at Fernleigh Park
Sources - A Powerpoint presentation by Bruce Taloni and Bill Hall in May 2021, the Minutes of Queanbeyan Landcare and feedback from local Fernleigh residents.