Natural values and context
The Big Punchbowl Reserve sits adjacent to the Moulting Lagoon Ramsar site, and collectively the area provides refuge and shelter for a multitude of shorebirds and waterfowl that use the wetlands, coast and waterways for breeding and feeding.
The property has a resident population of nationally endangered Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii), and conceals two magnificent white-bellied sea eagle (Haligeetus leucugaster) nests in its coastal bays. Other threatened species include plants, such as native broom (Viminaria juncea), brooklime (Gratiola pubescens) and the rare endemic Tasmanian velvetbush (Lasiopetalum micranthum) scattered on the woodland floor.
Managing The Big Punchbowl Reserve
Management of the reserve includes:
- control and eradication of gorse (Ulex europaeuss)
- control of access to visitors (particularly during eagle breeding season)
- road and track maintenance
- control of vehicle and foot traffic to minimise the spread of Phytopthora cinnamomi
- monitoring and management for feral animals
- fire management by implementing an appropriate fire regime
- maintenance of fences and gates to exclude stray stock.
On the Reserve
Poets & Painters
During the spring and summer months of 2016-17, nine poets and nine painters immersed themselves at the Big Punchbowl Reserve as part of a long-standing Poets & Painters art initiative. In pairs, they witnessed nature then collaboratively crafted work. The results show the reserve interpreted through a new and original lens. Their work culminated in July 2017 with a highly successful art exhibition and book launch, with the publication also celebrated at the Melbourne Writers Festival and Tasmanian Writers Festival.
Poets and Painters would not have been possible without the support of the Purves Environment Fund, the Purrybury Trust, Freycinet Experience, Devil’s Corner, Sophie Underwood and Matt Dell.
Click here to listen to the sounds of The Big Punchbowl Reserve
Banner image: Rob Blakers