This event was the first in a series of property tours that we hope will unlock different ideas about how to approach managing horses and the environment.
In Balnarring, we visited a 50 acre property which was a blank slate (and a giant pile of blackberries) nearly 30 years ago when the owners purchased it.
We saw how significant amounts of bush were incorporated into the property by creating riding trails through it and wildlife corridors along it.
We saw mud mitigation strategies in place whereby hay is fed on a hard stand and discussed ways to manage hay without waste using electric tape and a hardwood pallet. We discussed poo management (picking up and harrowing) and the benefits of dung beetles and cockatoos to help with the task.
Weed control is an eternal work-in-progress and the approach here was to be vigilant which inevitably takes keen observation and prioritisation of targeted herbicide use.
After a walk through the bush we returned for a delicious morning tea. If anyone has a property that they would be willing to show us around so that others may learn how things can be done differently we would be interested to hear from you.
