Bullo River Station

The Station

Situated in the north-western corner of the Northern Territory, near the West Australian border, Bullo River Station includes an impressive array of ecosystems. It is dominated by the Keep River sandstone formations consisting of spectacular rocky gorges and lush riparian ecosystems. The rich alluvial floodplains of the Victoria and Bullo rivers, dissected sandstone plateaux, sweeping eucalypt savannah woodlands and open grasslands provide vital refuge for northern Australia’s declining wildlife. AWC is implementing a scientific monitoring program to determine the areas of key ecological value, and has built a baseline inventory of the flora and fauna over the last five years. This information is directly informing land management programs – in particular fire management, weed control, and advice on the exclusion of cattle and buffalo from sensitive areas.

Wildlife at Bullo

Bullo River Station is likely to be home to more than 200 resident and migratory bird species including the endangered Gouldian Finch plus ten other finch species including, Long-tailed Finch, Masked, Finch and the Star, Double-barred, Zebra and Painted Finches Finch. There is also a diverse range of other wildlife species – including the only known population of Wyulda, or Scaly-tailed Possum, in the Northern Territory, the Victora River subspecies of the Short-eared Rock-wallaby, and the little known Chameleon Dragon.

AWC Field Programs at Bullo

Biodiversity surveys will determine the extent of resident animal and plant species. Initial surveys commenced in late 2018, and multi-year ongoing biological exploration will enhance the knowledge of Bullo River Station’s biodiversity. Ecological health monitoring is now starting to provide insights into effective land management strategies.

Land management activities such as fire management, weed control and feral herbivore control are being undertaken, and some former cattle grazing areas will be revegetated and restored. Cattle numbers have been reduced to around 4,000 to assist with the rehabilitation of land.

AWC will continue to integrate science and land management to improve the biodiversity values at Bullo River Station.