Wilding Pines are infesting the Earnscleugh Tailings Conservation Area. This hidden and little-known area, containing the Hidden Highway, needs urgent attention.

The densification of the pines is at a critical point, we have a chance to save the area now before the exponential spread densifies too much to reverse it.

We need your help to control these pines, please join us for a low intensity, social occasion where you can contribute and meet new people.

Basic supper and drinking water provided.

PURPOSE (what are we saving):

- Rare species like the endemic Alexandra Grasshopper, Tumbleweed lichen

- Historically significance sites and artifacts

- Protecting future land use and ecological services (closed canopy pine cover will be very difficult to reverse and prevent future restoration).

The pines are slowly destroying the artifacts of the history and the habitat of these species. If it densifies to closed canopy cover, much of the history & species will be lost.

DATE & TIME (potentially repeating event):

Wednesday the 29th Jan, 2025. 515pm to 8pm. Fine to turn up late, please just check in with Pete or the other organisers when you arrive.

RSVP (this is our first event, indicative numbers helpful): Please text or call me.

LOCATION (also refer to the links below):

• Meeting Point: Northwestern end of the Old Haul Road/Hidden Highway. Google Maps Link.
• Parking: Park here, safely off the road and beware of traffic and accessways 
• Walking access way: Walking track 
• Vehicle access (service & emergency only): Vehicle access via 1043 Earnscleugh Rd

SCHEDULE:

• 5pm - Meet and greet on site at meeting point
• 5:15pm – Briefing at meeting point
• 5:30pm – Crack into cutting pines within the designated area
• 7:45pm – Supper served at meeting point
• 8:15pm – End of the event.

WHAT TO BRING:

- Sturdy footwear, e.g. hiking boots/shoes

- Protective gloves

- Protective eyewear

- Long sleeves and long pants (for protection)

- Appropriate clothing and layers in case of a weather change

- Hand tools if you have them (hand saws & loppers), some will be available, but we have a limited supply

- And… some good yarns and friendly attitude.

ABILITY/EXPERIENCE/FITNESS NEEDED:

This will be low intensity and only a moderate level of fitness is required. No previous experience required. A safety briefing will be given on the day and easier, more accessible areas will be pointed out. Dogs welcome but please respect the conservation area rules.

TERRAIN & VEGETATION:

Generally flat with some steep banks and rocky mounds. Heavily covered with broom in some parts. Some thorny plants also.