After years of persistent drought, the Central West has experienced nearly four years of above-average rainfall after the drought-breaking downpours of 2020.
For local grazier and conservationist Tracee Burke those rains brought much-needed relief to the parched landscape and ignited a biodiversity resurgence on her Burkeway conservation area near Gooloogong.
The property has, with four wet years, enjoyed a mass germination of native tree species. Seeds dormant in the soil during years of drought sprang to life, carpeting the region with fresh growth of white box (Eucalyptus albens), Blakely’s red gum (Eucalyptus blakelyi), red stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), red box (Eucalyptus polyanthemos) and various wattles.
Tracee said she hadn’t seen such a promising sign of ecological recovery in years.
By implementing a planned grazing strategy to prioritise short grazing periods followed by extended rest intervals, Tracee allowed native seedlings to take root and thrive. Her conservation area has since become a hub of growing biodiversity, with new plant and animal species continually appearing.
To further support the recovery, she has installed protective tree guards around key seedling trees which has helped restore the natural canopy and strengthen the region’s grassy woodlands.
Her successful approach to land stewardship is evident in the results she has recorded over the years.
Senior Regional Conservation Officer Sharon Cunial praised the conservation effort, saying, Tracee’s commitment was remarkable.
“Her careful land management practices are allowing native ecosystems to recover and flourish, demonstrating the power of sustainable agriculture,” Sharon said.
Since entering a conservation agreement in 2020, Tracee has documented her observations, using seven photo-monitoring points across her property to track landscape changes. The images and data she’s gathered tell a story of resilience and restoration and illustrated how targeted conservation efforts, combined with favourable weather patterns, can help heal the land.
“The regeneration we’re seeing at Burkeway is a testament to the success of Tracee’s approach,” Sharon said.
“By prioritising biodiversity and soil health, she is not only restoring the landscape but also creating a more resilient environment for future generations.
“Her work serves as an inspiring example of sustainable land management, demonstrating the potential for recovery even after years of drought.
“As the Central West continues to adapt to changing climatic conditions, her efforts highlight the crucial role that conservation-focused agriculture can play in safeguarding Australia’s natural environment,” she said.