VISITING OUR RESERVES
We really appreciate people coming along to our reserves and enjoying the native fauna & flora (ie animals, insects & plant life). We go to great lengths to provide a safe, natural habitat for our native species.
NB: we not only respect the Natural History but also the history of the people inhabiting the reserves before we were given the tremendous opportunity & responsibility to look after them.
Unfortunately this involves several un-natural requirements.
1. We must have rules. We don't like them any more than anyone else. But it's the only way we know of to provide a sustainably safe & natural environment.
2. Man-made structures. We need fences to keep the sheep & other introduced species out of the reserves. We need tracks to inspect the fences and to be able to keep them in good condition. We also need a camp site to stay in while working on the reserves.
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| No dogs or domestic pets. If you must leave them in your car, please ensure they have plenty of air & water. Most of our reserves are in semi-arid areas and get VERY HOT. | |
| No guns & hence no shooting | |
| When visiting Moorunde, please keep to the marked trail. As this is a large reserve it is easy to get lost in. | |
| We ask you to take care of our environment and property. | |
| Convey these rules to your children & other visitors, so they may learn from your example. | |
| Watch where you put your feet so that you don't step on any orchids or other important plants. | |
| Take only photographs. | |
| Leave only your footprints | |
| Put any rubbish you have in a bag and take home with you. | |
| Ensure you are well equipped. Have plenty of water, a compass, whistle & first aid kit. | |
| HAVE FUN & ENJOY YOUR VISIT |
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Grid Markers: Moorunde Reserve has been surveyed into 200 metre grids. These markers indicate the corner of each grid. These are a guide for members to Navigate the reserve, and for recording of scientific information. If you keep to the marked trail, at Moorunde as discussed in the rules, or keep the entrance in view at the other reserves you should not get lost. | ||
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Rain Gauges: We have 5 rain gauges around Moorunde. The rain gauges help our scientist evaluate environmental conditions. This picture was taken while on ranger duty and shows the measuring and recording of rainfall. Ranger duties include taking rainfall measurements and checking & fixing fences. As you can see, being a member of the Natural History Society isn't about being stuffy. It's about protecting our environment, and every so often family members having a good day out. It's good stuff. | ||
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Dirt Roads: We require dirt roads to inspect & maintain the reserves. As you see here, rocks are placed by the side of the track to reduce wash-out when raining. While difficult to see in this photo, this part of the road goes through a water cause. | ||
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Trail Signs & Markers: Moorunde has a well laid out trail, starting on the South fence (along Moorundie Road). It's designed so you start and finish at the stile (ie steps allowing people but not animals to cross a fence. Shown in the 1st photo on this page). The markers are numbered to help you ensure your going the right way. | |
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This sign is visible on many fences in the Moorunde area. There are many conservation parks in this vicinity belonging to many different groups. The sign indicates the fenced areas are maintained for heritage reasons. Please respect these areas, as well as ours. | ||
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Information Posts: Along the trail you'll also see posts with information plaques to help you better understand the environment & features around you as you walk along the trail. | ||
Become a Member:
You know it's only $27.50 per year for a whole family and you get 6 journals through the year. Please contact Peter Jones, our membership officer.
