Native Vegetation Heritage Agreement
Anacotilla Gorge
Rob Malone

Rob Malone explained the application that has been submitted to the Native Vegetation Council for a Heritage Agreement to ensure the ongoing rejuvenation and protection of the Anacotilla Gorge. A Native Vegetation Heritage Agreement is a conservation area on private land, established between the landholder and the Government. Once established, it exists in perpetuity to protect and enhance the natural character of the site's flora and fauna. The proposed Anacotilla Gorge area is about 28 hectares of the total Anacotilla Springs property of 53 hectares. It runs along either side of the Anacotilla River, which is spring fed and the only water course on the Western Fleurieu that runs all year round.

The Native Vegetation Council Incentive Grant which has also been applied for as part of this application, funds short term (1 - 5 years) projects that help to protect native vegetation and enhance its condition. Owners are required to co-contribute with money/ hours worked. Hours worked include providing community activities like talks and walks to interested groups, for example Birds SA. The land is valued differently which means there are rate deductions and there are specific requirements for example, no horse trails, however walking trails and eco-tourism are permitted.

Rob showed a video taken by a drone in 2023 from the Main South Road end of the Anacotilla River where the Weir is situated, one kilometre up the Gorge to the fence line adjacent to the spring. He also explained the history of the Gorge since it was acquired in 2012, having been overgrazed by stock for more than 150 years, to the present time, pointing out improvements made by planting, weed control and fencing. The audience congratulated Rob and Pamela on their efforts, notwithstanding current drought setbacks, and were pleased to hear they also intend to apply for State Heritage listing of the Anacotilla Weir.