18-05-2025
Forest booming after removal of ferals and native daisies turning fields pink
Standing on the banks of Barmah Lake, you might spot spoonbills, pelicans and egrets bathing at the water's edge. It would be just a glimpse of the 270 animal species and 500 native plants that live in Barmah National Park — a landscape that has started to thrive since the controversial decision to remove its population of wild horses. The park sits on Yorta Yorta country, stretching across the flood plains of the Murray River in northern Victoria. It is part of the largest river red gum forest in the world and home to internationally recognised wetlands. The native vegetation has started to regenerate since the horses were removed, much to the delight of local ecologists.
In the golden fields of Western Australia's southern Wheatbelt, something pink is growing. The community of Mobrup, about 300 kilometres south of Perth, is one of WA's oldest sheep and grain farming centres. But for the past two decades, one farm has been growing something a little bit different - native everlasting daisies.
Tennis balls are flying in Queensland's Mt Isa again, but for many years it was nothing but empty courts at the Copper City Tennis Club. Mount Isa has a long and rich tennis history, helping to mould sporting legends like former world number one, Pat Rafter. In recent years things have been a little different, without a coach to teach lobs and backhands, local interest had dropped to all an time low. That's all set to change, with a former pro serving up some fresh lessons on centre court.
In far-flung corners of Queensland where people might not see a neighbour for days, mail delivery means more than just bills and brochures turning up. It's a vital connection to the rest of the world. 72-year-old Ruby Gamble has been delivering mail to stations around the south-west Queensland town of Cunnamulla for almost 30 years. Reporter Dan McCray caught up with the outback postie who has been through droughts, floods, personal loss and several vehicles.
