Mandalong lies within the traditional lands of the Awabakal people and its name describes this country as “where the Forest-oaks grow”

The forest oak is commonly known as the She-oak and most Mandalong residents have them growing on their properties.

 

She-oaks provide the main food source for both the Yellow Tailed Cockatoo and the Glossy Black Red Tailed Cockatoo which was listed as vulnerable under National Environmental Law in Aug 2022. Their falling numbers are being attributed to destruction of their food trees.

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Currently in its detailed planning and fund raising stage the Project aims to involve Mandalong residents in a significant conservation project that involves the planting of She-oaks on their properties to ensure the future survival of the local cockatoos.

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Residents joining the Project will be supported in the form of both technical and practical advice as well as assistance with planting of the tube stock as required. Participants will also be supplied with gate signs, information booklets and certificates. Professional support will continue after the initial plantings.

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Given the extent of the recent tree felling in our area it has become even more imperative to future-proof the cockatoos’ food supply.  Even in this early stage of planning there has been considerable interest and enthusiasm for the Mandalong Forest She-oaks Project.