Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
The Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary is situated adjacent to the Dog Rocks outcrop on the top of a hill in west Batesford, west of Geelong, in Victoria.
The Sanctuary was established when the previous owner George Belcher’s great grandfather purchased the property in 1856. It has now been purchased by a young couple and their small children who will continue to manage it under its covenant with Trust for Nature, and with the assistance of the Batesford–Fyansford–Stonehaven Landcare group.
The Flora and Fauna
This open eucalyptus woodland nurtures a rich variety of flora and fauna. Rare local native vegetation can be found. The Sanctuary is recognised for its concentration of bird life and provides a protected haven and habitat for them. It also contains a variety of mammals and reptiles which are all part of the complex ecology of the area.
Working with Schools and other Organizations
Currently, with the assistance of St Joseph’s College, Covenent College and the Medibank Private managers community service Better Health Program, we are removing invasive weeds in the Sanctuary to enable the regeneration and re-establishment of flora which naturally occurred in this grassy woodland.
Working Bees
Working bees are held throughout the year. If you would like to help or want more information, please click the button below to send us an email.
2020 Calendar of Events
May 2020 (to be advised)
COMMUNITY WORKING BEE
The Big Boneseed Weeding Day
Where: Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary — check signs for entry point.
Friday 31 July 2020
NATIONAL TREE DAY FOR SCHOOLS
Where: Mansfield Property Fyansford
Sunday 2 August 2020
NATIONAL TREE DAY
Where: Red Gum Reserve, Batesford
School Activities
Throughout the year
Australian Government
Current Projects
Communities for Nature 2013 Small Grant ($20,000)
Victorian Government — Dept. of Environment and Primary Industry
A two year grant for the Restoration of the Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary.
Biodiversity Fund ($15,000)
Australian Government — Dept. Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities.
‘Building Biodiversity across Geelong’s Rural landscape’ — Geelong Landcare Network.
Photo credits: Will Belcher (sheerwillphotography.com.au) and Felicity Spear.