Located on the south eastern face of Wahluu (Mount Panorama), the 135-acre reserve holds significant environmental and cultural value. The project will focus on restoring native habitat, improving biodiversity and supporting the recovery of native plant species through targeted weed management and on-ground restoration activities.

Funded through the Environmental Trust’s Protecting Our Places Program, the initiative will also support a broader vision for the reserve as a place for cultural learning, community engagement and connection to Country.

BLALC Chief Executive Officer Toni-Lee Scott said the project will play an important role in both environmental restoration and strengthening opportunities for the local Aboriginal community.

“We’re really pleased to receive funding through the Environmental Trust to support this work at Wahluu Gamarra – Wiradjuri Reserve. A big focus for us is getting on top of the weeds and restoring the natural balance of the site so native plant species can recover and provide habitat for local wildlife,” Ms Scott said.

“It’s also important that the site can be used to share knowledge and support connection to Country, particularly for our community and Elders.”

As project lead, BLALC will oversee delivery in partnership with community Elders and stakeholders, ensuring Aboriginal knowledge and cultural perspectives remain at the centre of the project’s planning and implementation.

Supporting Environmental Outcomes and Employment Pathways

Skillset Land Works has been engaged to deliver the on-ground works, supporting the project through Skillset’s social enterprise model.

In addition to achieving environmental outcomes, the project will create opportunities for local people to develop practical skills and gain experience in the environmental sector.

Skillset CEO Narelle Stocks said the partnership demonstrates the value of working alongside community to deliver meaningful outcomes.

“We’re proud to support BLALC in delivering this project and to contribute through our Land Works team,” Mrs Stocks said.

“It’s about achieving real environmental outcomes while also creating opportunities for local people, including local Aboriginal community members, to build skills and careers in the environmental sector.”

A Shared Vision for the Future

The restoration of Wahluu Gamarra – Wiradjuri Reserve represents more than environmental conservation. It is an investment in community, culture and future opportunities.

By combining environmental restoration with skills development and community engagement, the project will help protect an important local landscape while creating pathways for learning, employment and connection to Country.

Updates on the project and opportunities for community involvement will be shared as the project progresses.

Photo: Russell Meadley, Skillset Land Works Manager, and Toni-Lee Scott, Bathurst Local Aboriginal Land Council Chief Executive Officer, at the Wahluu Gamarra – Wiradjuri Reserve.