Progress Update - June 2025

In late April, we met with Clayton Pearse from National Plant Group based in Woodend to finalise a comprehensive plan for managing water on the property. We’re excited to share that work began on Wednesday, 5 June, with the initial sculpting of the wetland area now underway.

Next, a drainage swale will be created, starting from the south-west corner of the property. This feature will help divert water flowing from the railway easement directly into the new wetland, improving site drainage and sustainability.

Following the drainage works, we’ll move on to preparing the maintenance car park at the Sebastopol Road entrance. Gravel will be laid to ensure a stable and safe parking area, especially important during our upcoming planting activities.

Although rainfall has been minimal so far, we're hopeful that forecasted showers over the coming week will bring much-needed relief. We're still aiming to begin planting our woodland trees in early July, weather permitting.

Unfortunately, we received word that Planet Ark—who had awarded us a grant for tree purchases—has gone into administration, and the grant will no longer be fulfilled. Despite this setback, we’re incredibly grateful to Brendon Smith from the Tylden Landcare Group, who has generously offered to donate the tree tubestock.

To protect the new plantings, we’ll still need to purchase tree guards. The expected cost is between $200 and $300. Donations toward this effort are most welcome and greatly appreciated. Donate here.

Thank you for your continued support—exciting things are taking shape at Mark’s Country Place! Stay tuned for more updates as we move into the next phase of the project.

Preparing the wetland area.

Preparing the wetland.