MICK Gentleman is asking the Canberra community to provide their views on the expansion of the Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary.

“Mulligans Flat has proven very successful since the predator-proof fence was completed in 2009, along with control of feral pest species and a woodland restoration project,” Mick said.

“Several species previously extinct in the region – the eastern bettong, new Holland mouse, and bush-stone curlew – have been successfully re-introduced into the sanctuary and there are now popular evening tours and nationally significant research taking place. An eastern quoll reintroduction has recently begun.

“The ACT Government is currently working with the Woodlands and Wetlands Trust on plans to expand the Mulligans Flat Sanctuary to cover an area of over 1200 hectares, rather than its current 485 hectares. This expansion will join the Sanctuary with the adjacent Goorooyarroo Nature Reserve, as well as land between the two reserves.

“The project will enable the ACT Government to deliver on its environmental offset obligations resulting from development works in the new suburb of Throsby. It will help improve habitat for the nationally endangered golden sun moth, striped legless lizard, superb parrot and yellow box-Blakely’s red gum grassy woodland.

“As well as being in close proximity to Throsby, thus providing recreational opportunities for residents, it will also ensure research and breeding programs can continue at an enhanced level with a new predator-proof fence enclosing the reserve.”

Mick encouraged community members to help guide the development of a concept plan and interpretation strategy for the expanded reserve.

“ACT Parks and Conservation is currently working with the Woodlands and Wetlands Trust to find out what is important for people in terms of the future of the sanctuary.

“The main goals of the concept plan are to guide how the reserve will be managed, including key values, research goals and recreation and interpretation opportunities. I encourage Canberrans to take a short survey to let us know how they currently use the sanctuary and what they would like to see in the future.

“The survey is available from www.tams.act.gov.au from now until 30 June.

Minister Gentleman said the next stage will involve consolidating the feedback, and developing a spatial plan for the Sanctuary before work starts on developing new tracks and trails as well as interpretative programs.

The concept plan and interpretation strategy is being prepared by TRC Tourism, dsb Landscape Architects and Locals.