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Description: This unique property, locally known as “The Duckholes”, comprises 13.51 ha [33.37 acres] and contains several wetland areas. Additionally, there is a licence “for the purpose of conservation” over a small area between the eastern property boundary and the Duckholes road. This licence extends to the year 2103.
These environmentally significant wetlands are seasonal home to many waterbirds including annual migratory birds. The endangered Corangamite water skink has also been recorded at the property. The current owner has taken out a covenant with Trust for Nature to protect the property permanently for its environmental values. Accordingly, there is a management agreement which allows minimal grazing on the eastern area of approximately 20% of the property to control pasture grass. A solar powered electric fence unit feeds extensive electric fencing to control that grazing. In addition, it is expected the owner would control thistle and boxthorn weeds. Close cooperation and information from Trust for Nature exists. Additional technical support is willingly supplied by the Corangamite Catchment management authority. In the past several grants have been obtained to assist in maintaining the property.
Several plantations of indigenous native vegetation have been planted to add to the environment. There is a full audit of existing native flora which is quite extensive. Wallabies and echidna can be seen as well as many bush birds.
A licenced bore has been installed and 240volt submersible bore pump feeds a 20,000-litre tank. From the tank a pressure pump feeds 400metres of water lines and taps. A generator was used to run the pumps but alternatively could be run by solar. The water quality is exceptional and a certificate of analysis is available. A small garden shed exists for storage.
This exceptional property is under the 40hectares threshold for planning approval to build a dwelling, however through consultation with Colac Otway Shire alternative arrangements may be possible.
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