Fire is a natural part of the Australian bush and many of Victoria’s native plants and animals need it to survive.

Black Saturday

The 2009 Victorian bushfires were catastrophic for so many people and also for wildlife living in the affected areas. The bush will recover over time although the intensity of these particular fires means animal populations may be affected for many years to come.

Healesville Sanctuary saw the effects of Black Saturday first hand. Some staff lost their homes, the Sanctuary itself was under threat and many animals were evacuated. The Vet team worked around the clock treating fire affected animals in the wildlife hospital and in rescue centres out in the community.

Species that are already endangered were put under even more pressure to survive by these bushfires. Victoria’s faunal emblems – the Helmeted Honeyeater and Leadbeaters Possums were both affected by the fires and potentially we could have lost these species forever.

Living in the bush environment means learning how to adapt and live with fires – for the health of our plants, animals and people it is something we need to ensure we get right.

Your Challenge

Improve biodiversity and reduce fire risk in your community.

It’s quite a challenge but can we do both?
What lessons have we learned from Black Saturday?
Can we improve the natural environment for our unique plants and animals & make things safer for people living in the bush?