A group of 11 hardy souls enjoyed a wonderful after dark tour of Wildlife Wonders (Wildlife Wonders | Discover Australian Wildlife) at Apollo Bay on 4th July. Luckily, after several days of rain, interspersed with heavy showers, we had mostly dry conditions for our visit. After a bowl of soup and homemade savoury scones we were introduced to the highlights of the Conservation Ecology Centre’s Strategic Plan (2025-2030) by the CEO Lizzie Cork (Strategic Plan | Join Conservation Efforts Today — Conservation Ecology Centre). Lizzie highlighted the important work that CEC do with a variety of agencies across the Otways including feral pig control, marine ecosystem monitoring, small mammal monitoring and recovery of the Carlisle Heath following the recent fires. Lizzie also answered a range of questions from our members. We thank Lizzie for giving up her time to speak with us!
We were then left in the hands of our guide for the night Erin. After donning our waterproof gear and picking up our red light torches we watched a brief video introduction to Wildlife Wonders before setting out onto the property. As the birds sang their final songs for the day animals started to appear. Several koalas swayed in the windy treetops and as we wound our way into the fern gully we saw groups of Red-bellied Pademelon. This pademelon species is now confined to Tasmania but was once widespread in Victoria.
The local Swamp and Red-necked Wallaby also appeared on the grassland areas of the property along with their larger relative the eastern grey kangaroo. For me the highlight of the evening was the abundance of Long-nosed Potoroo which scampered about the area and on occasion could be seen at very close quarters.
Three quarters of the way around the walk we stopped at the excellent research and exhibition building which highlighted aspects of the work of Wildlife Wonders and the CEC. On return to the main building we gave Erin a vote of thanks for her excellent tour after a very enjoyable visit!
We have made a donation of $250 to the CEC on behalf of all FEO Members to support their important work.
Keith McLean
Photographs Rob Shepherd, Lesley Cadzow and Keith McLean