Topic:
Prescribed Burns

A sense of belonging on Frankland riverbank

Walpole's Prue Anderson warmly conveys her abiding connection to the Frankland River. At six-months of age she moved to the riverside property with her family and has closely observed it over nearly forty years while paddling, swimming, rock-hopping and exploring.As the new President of the Walpole-Nornalup National Parks Association, Prue's keen sense of place and care for nature extend outwards to encompass the nearby Walpole Wilderness area. Weighing on her mind are the entwined impacts of climate change and prescribed burning on the area.

Image of Visiting a farm in the Sleeman sub-catchment. The Sleeman and Cuppup sub-catchments are a primary focus for WICC to reduce nutrient export into nearby Wilson Inlet. Picture: Russell Carter.

Grand plan for the Wilson Inlet Catchment

Shaun's journey from a childhood in Seattle, shaped by his father's determination and a passion for the ocean and the outdoors, led him to a remarkable career in marine science and environmental advocacy.Through his role with the Wilson Inlet Catchment Committee (WICC) Shaun has found a calling. Leading WICC's focus on sustainable agriculture and biodiversity, he embraced the challenge of fostering community engagement in environmental conservation.

Image of Margaret at the Tasmanian Wilderness Society, soon after joining the Franklin River campaign in early 1982. Picture: courtesy of Margaret Robertson.

Committed environment campaigner from beginning

Margaret's journey in environmental advocacy began at Yarrak, her family farm near Kojonup, where her father instilled in her a deep respect for the land.

Yarning about fire

This story offers so much! It is a heart-warming yet serious yarn that shines more light on a way forward with fire.Here's Uncle Aden: "Kaarl (fire) was always part of our life ... We had a good life in camps and the kaarl made sure we were alright. We had all the comforts thanks to the fire."Join Uncle Aden Eades, Aunty Eliza Woods and PhD student Ursula Rodrigues as they sit and yarn about fire.

Speaking out: Dr Joanna Young challenges prescribed fire practices

For 35 years, as a forest scientist, farmer and local conservation group member, Joanna has been observing, exploring and loving the Walpole Wilderness Area. But current prescribed burning practices, with their immense impact on the area’s ecosystems and biodiversity, are spurring Joanna to speak out. She is part of a growing chorus of scientists and community members calling for an expert, independent review of the State Government’s prescribed burning program.