As Melbourne's suburban edge continues to spread further west, places like Pinkerton Forest at Mount Cottrell have become increasingly important.

This remarkable remnant of old-growth Grey Box woodland on the Victorian Volcanic Plain provides a refuge for wildlife in a landscape that has changed dramatically since European settlement. Wedge-tailed eagles, whistling kites, kangaroos and countless other species continue to find a home among its ancient trees and tree hollows.

I visited Pinkerton Forest with long-time volunteer Daryl Akers. Sitting around a giant tree stump table beneath the woodland canopy, we talked while birds called around us and the sounds of the forest drifted through the recording.

Daryl shares the story of how this woodland was protected, the challenges of restoring habitat and controlling weeds, and why remnant bushland is becoming increasingly valuable as Melbourne grows. We also talk about wildlife corridors, old-growth trees, community conservation, and the dedication of the small group of volunteers who continue to care for this special place.

It's a calm and reflective conversation about stewardship, restoration, and the importance of protecting the remnants that remain.

https://pinkertonforest.com/