A remote South Australian island is set to become a sanctuary for endangered native species, thanks to a joint investment by the Australian and South Australian governments.
Flinders Island, located off the state’s west coast, will undergo a significant pest eradication program to create a safe haven for threatened mammals, including the banded hare-wallaby. The $4.8 million project will see the removal of feral cats, rats, and mice from the island.
At nearly 4000 hectares, Flinders Island is South Australia’s fourth largest island and is surrounded by the Investigator Group Marine Park protected area. It features 50 kilometres of diverse coastline and native vegetation covering about 75 per cent of the island, making it an ideal haven for some of our threatened species. Its located 35km south west of Elliston on the Eyre Peninsula.
The island, owned by the Woolford family, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and stunning natural beauty. It is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, and the eradication of invasive pests will allow for the reintroduction of species that once thrived there.
Jonas Woolford spoke about the project saying, “We, the Woolford family, are very excited about the opportunity to convert Flinders Island into a safe haven.
“It has been many years in the planning for us, transitioning from farming to tourism and conservation.
“We really appreciate collaborating with the Commonwealth and South Australian governments to achieve this massive project and mutual objective.
“Sharing the conservation results with a like-minded community is our intention – being mindful that to ensure the legacy and investment of this project, biosecurity by us and all visitors is our ongoing responsibility.
South Australian Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close spoke about the importance of the project in safeguarding biodiversity. “The Flinders Island Safe Haven project is vital because there are few places in Australia which provide such a unique opportunity for us to protect our important native wildlife,” she said.
The eradication program, which is expected to be completed by December 2025, will be conducted outside of shorebird and seabird breeding seasons to minimise disruption to these species.
The project is a significant step in addressing the decline of native species in South Australia. Many species have become extinct since European settlement, and the creation of safe havens is crucial to their survival.
Jonathan Clark, General Manager, Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board said “The Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board is proud to be part of the jointly delivered stage two and three of the Flinders Island Safe Haven Project. This is a significant opportunity to lead by example in South Australia to develop and test the methods for large scale island and safe haven best practise rodent and feral cat control.
“It is wonderful to see investment in the region working closely with the Woolfords and the local Elliston community to ensure the long-term conservation of Flinders Island, recognising the importance of the island as a Safe Haven climate critical habitat.
“The project realises the critical need to provide refuge and offer long term opportunities for species to adapt and persist, particularly working with landowners in a modern conservation model.”
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