The purpose of The Grass Routes is to contribute to the creation of a unique national network of bush corridors… for the shared and sustainable use by all Australians for heritage, habitat and livelihoods.
Australia is in a unique position to create such a network, building upon its globally significant travelling stock routes. The remaining stock route and reserve system provides a platform for further regeneration to create habitate and connectivity. They are also a treasure trove of history ~ both ancient and contemporary. Their cultural and historical significance is of great value for sustainable tourism, education and recreation.
However, right now, Australia’s unique Travelling Stock Routes throughout NSW and Queensland ~ fondly known to many as The Long Paddock ~ are under threat from further sale, fragmentation and degradation from a lack of sustainable management and adequate funding.
“Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents, it is loaned to you by your children.”
~ North American Indian Proverb
Klori Travelling Stock Route. Photo by Nell Chaffey
This is taking place at the very same time that Australia’s native habitats are at such grave risk. So much of their full value is unseen, unknown and neglected. We are witnessing the greatest loss of biodiversity in 65 million years (since Dinosaurs became extinct!) and climate change adds to these risks.
The Grass Routes is an aspirational initiative, working to support the choice for all Australians to not only retain but also regenerate, extend and sustain our beautiful native habitats. These habitats will not only provide critically important homes for our flora and fauna. They will also provide a heartland for all Australians, a common connection from city to country, a living place for our heritage and a means for sustainable livelihoods.
Kangaroo Grass Awareness Raising Kits
We have chosen Kangaroo Grass as our mascot for the need to regenerate seriously depleted native habitats right across Australia. Proceeds from each seed pack are being invested equally towards on the ground work; capacity building for the network of grass roots organisations and projects; and furter awareness and fund raising initiatives.
Click here to order your Kangaroo Grass Kit.
Starfish’s Role
Starfish researched and developed the social change strategy for The Grass Routes Initiative and organisation of the second NSW Travelling Stock Routes Conference. This work was undertaken in partnership with the National Parks Association of NSW.
