About Charleys Forest

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Geography and Location

Charleys Forest, situated on the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales, is approximately an hour and a half east of Canberra.  The area is a diverse region on the western side of the rugged Budawang Ranges, characterised by the combination of Devonian volcanic soils and a variety of metasediments. This unique geological composition has created distinct habitats, supporting a wide array of plant and animal species. The volcanic soils provide essential nutrients, while the metasediments introduce variations in mineral compositions and physical characteristics, resulting in a multitude of specialised habitats. The region is home to natural temperate grasslands, Eucalytpus woodlands, remnant basalt forests, montane heath, rocky outcrops, swamps, creek gorges and flats, each hosting a unique community of organisms adapted to thrive in their specific ecological niche.

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Climate and Seasons

Charleys Forest, a cool temperate climate not marked by seasonal extremes, does have an erratic climate that defies predictability.

Unseasonal extremes are a defining characteristic, presenting a unique challenge to gardening and crop production. The absence of consistent patterns disrupts the traditional rhythms of planting and harvesting, making it a formidable task to align cultivation with nature's capriciousness. This climatic unpredictability adds an extra layer of complexity to the already intricate task of nurturing crops, necessitating adaptable strategies and a resilient spirit to navigate the intricate dance between human ambition and the forces of nature. Everyone who lives here knows the challenges. Frosts in the middle of summer, potential for floods, fires or snow falls at unseasonal times. We have experienced yearly average annual rainfall ranging from 300 mm a year to over 1000 mm in a year. 

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In Charleys Forest, the ethos of working with nature, rather than against it, resonates deeply. The climate's unorthodox rhythms, marked by summer frosts, potential floods, fires, and untimely snowfalls, underscore the futility of battling nature's forces. The yearly rainfall, fluctuating between 300 mm and over 1000 mm, reinforces the need to harmonize human endeavors with the unpredictable environment.
In this intricate dance, landholders have to coexistence with beautiful mobs of  kangaroos, wombats, bowerbirds, and parrots. This approach embraces the essence of the land, acknowledging that the ecosystem's intricacies shape the realm of possibilities.

 

It's an invitation to collaborate with nature's rhythms, fostering resilience and innovative adaptation rather than resisting the untamed forces that define Charleys Forest.

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Geological Features

 

Indigenous Heritage and Cultural Significance

1. Flora of Charleys Forest:

   • Overview of Plant Biodiversity

   • Habitats and Ecosystems

Notable Plant Species (with subheadings for different types of plants, e.g., Trees, Shrubs, Wildflowers)There are several rare and threatened fauna and flora species that call Charleys Forest home, including the Nerriga Grevillea (Grevillea renwickiana),  Michelago Parrot-pea (Dillwynia glaucula), Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus), Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua), Glossy Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) and the Gang-gang Cockatoo ( Callocephalon fimbriatum).

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Adaptations and Interactions

1. Fauna of Charleys Forest:

   • Introduction to Local Wildlife

   • Mammals (with subheadings for different mammal species)

   • Birds (with subheadings for different bird species)

   • Reptiles and Amphibians

   • Insects and Other Invertebrates

   • Role in the Ecosystem

2. Exploring Charleys Forest:

   • Nature Walks and Trails

   • Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation

   • Geological Landmarks

   • Historical Sites and Stories

   • Conservation Efforts and Volunteer Opportunities

 

Human History and Connection:

 

Indigenous People and Traditional Land Use

Mongarlowe, as it stands today, occupies the ancestral territories of the Walbanga people, a sect of the Yuin community[6].

Amidst the tumult of settler colonization, the Walbanga people were dispossessed of their prime lands. In search of habitable territories, numerous Aboriginal families pursued land rights. To this end, a 140-acre land parcel was demarcated as a refuge for Aboriginal people in 1879, situated north of Mongarlowe within the neighboring Parish of Mongarlowe. This land was earmarked under the stewardship of an Aboriginal woman, Mary Ann Willoughby[7][8]. Following this, in 1885, another reserve of nearly 9 acres was dedicated in the name of yet another Aboriginal woman, Margaret Bryant[9].

However, in 1893, these earlier reserves underwent alteration, with a fresh allocation of 50 acres being designated along the left bank of Currowan Creek. This location was proximate to the confluence of Currowan Creek and the Clyde River estuary, residing on the coastal periphery of the Budawang Range. Named the Currowan Creek Aboriginal Reserve, this land remained an Aboriginal sanctuary until 1956[10][11].

As time unfolded, a series of factors, possibly encompassing the quest for sustainable livelihoods, prompted many surviving Aborigines within the Braidwood goldfields vicinity to migrate towards the coast. This coast was also within the realm of the Walbanga people. By the latter 19th century, Mary Ann Willoughby, who was already residing in the coastal surroundings in 1876, continued to be part of the landscape around Mongarlowe[12]. Her presence, along with her children, persisted in this area until 1902[13][14].

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Settlers and Early Explorers
The Chinese Goldrush, centered around the Braidwood region of New South Wales, left an enduring impact on Charleys Forest as prospectors sought gold, impacting the land. Archaeological remnants from that era offer direct windows into the past. The races, ingenious water channels built by miners, are still visible, highlighting innovative methods for gold extraction. Abandoned mineshafts stand as proof of the dedication miners invested in the pursuit of minerals.

Structural traces from sluicing operations, which used water for gold separation, showcase the era's technological skills. Beyond these physical remains, the Chinese Goldrush left cultural imprints woven into the land's history.

Post the gold fever, Charleys Forest transformed into a pastoral phase, as grazing left its mark on the landscape, influencing ecosystems.

Historical architectural fragments provide insights into the past. The old school resonates with past education efforts. An aged post office, once a communication hub, bears testament to historical community ties.

Beyond these elements, the scent of eucalyptus recalls an era of essential oil extraction. Aged pot stills along watercourses are relics of Eucalyptus distillation, linked with species like Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives.

Coppicing Peppermint trees, notably Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives, adds another layer. This practice, selective shoot harvesting for oil, shaped tree growth to meet industrial needs.

In essence, remains of races, mineshafts, pastoral marks, structures, and eucalyptus distillation's vestiges make Charleys Forest a historical store. As an Environmental Scientist, this factual exploration invites readers to journey through history embedded in the landscape, deepening comprehension of Charleys Forest's diverse evolution.

Charleys Forest's history is deeply linked with its settlers and early explorers. Notably, the Chinese Goldrush, centered around the Braidwood region of New South Wales, left an enduring impact on Charleys Forest as prospectors sought gold, impacting the land.

Archaeological remnants from that era offer direct windows into the past. The races, ingenious water channels built by miners, are still visible, highlighting innovative methods for gold extraction. Abandoned mineshafts stand as proof of the dedication miners invested in the pursuit of minerals.

Structural traces from sluicing operations, which used water for gold separation, showcase the era's technological skills. Beyond these physical remains, the Chinese Goldrush left cultural imprints woven into the land's history.

Post the gold fever, Charleys Forest transformed into a pastoral phase, as grazing left its mark on the landscape, influencing ecosystems.

Historical architectural fragments provide insights into the past. The old school resonates with past education efforts. An aged post office, once a communication hub, bears testament to historical community ties.

Beyond these elements, the scent of eucalyptus recalls an era of essential oil extraction. Aged pot stills along watercourses are relics of Eucalyptus distillation, linked with species like Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives.

Coppicing Peppermint trees, notably Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives, adds another layer. This practice, selective shoot harvesting for oil, shaped tree growth to meet industrial needs.

In essence, remains of races, mineshafts, pastoral marks, structures, and eucalyptus distillation's vestiges make Charleys Forest a historical store. As an Environmental Scientist, this factual exploration invites readers to journey through history embedded in the landscape, deepening comprehension of Charleys Forest's diverse evolution.

Integral to Charleys Forest's historical tapestry is the practice of eucalyptus distillation, particularly the extraction of Peppermint oil. Across the region, Peppermint trees were central to producing Eucalyptus essential oil. The landscape reflects this past, as there are many stands of peppermint trees with multiple branches, a legacy of repeated coppicing to keep the branches small and the leaves rich with oil, and easier to reach.

Remnants of this industry are evident, with the remains of old pot stills positioned along the creek line. These small distillation units were used to convert leaves into oil. Steam, generated separately in a boiler, was passed through the still, causing oil and water to condense and separate.
These historical pot stills can be found, alongside heavily coppiced Peppermint trees that were the source of this enterprise. The landscape's character, influenced by these practices, harks back to a different time. Memories also persist of individuals who continued these traditional techniques.
When it comes to essential oils, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives stand out.

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Modern-Day Communities

In the contemporary tapestry of Charleys Forest, a diverse and vibrant community thrives, shaped by a rich amalgamation of history, natural allure, and modern pursuits. Amidst the rolling landscapes, hobby farms and private conservation properties stand as testament to the residents' commitment to both sustainability and preservation. The encompassing embrace of the Budawang National Park and Morton National Park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature admirers, where the harmony of human interaction with nature flourishes.
Beyond these natural wonders, the Mongarlowe River whispers tales of fossicking adventures, inviting enthusiasts to sift through its sediments in search of hidden treasures. Nearby waters offer the thrill of trout fishing, while pig dogging and equestrian pursuits honor the area's rural legacy. Animal rescue endeavors and the presence of a cattery showcase the community's compassion for the non-human inhabitants of this landscape.
The Mongarlowe Cricket Ground stands as a shared ground for both sport and camaraderie, reflecting the area's communal spirit. The echoes of a once-operational trout farm provide insight into past industries, while the farm's modern closure underlines shifting dynamics.
In the mosaic of Charleys Forest's modern life, each thread weaves a narrative that honors its roots, embraces nature, and exemplifies the enduring spirit of the community.

 

Cattle

In Charleys Forest, over the last twenty years there has been a transition from predominately Hereford breeds to Angus cattle breeders, predominantly focused on meat production for slaughter, has generated a complex interplay between agricultural practices and environmental concerns. These breeders have garnered attention not only for their beef production but also for the associated challenges they pose to the ecosystem.

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Sheep

Sheep were brought in by first settlers and have been in Charleys Forest ever since. Many shearing sheds and infrastructure for sheep farming exist in the area, although the industry is all but reduced to hobby farmers.

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Alpacas

Alpacas have found a unique niche in Charleys Forest, where enthusiasts like Royall and Susan Tyler and others have fostered a flourishing alpaca community. Breeding for prized fleece, showcasing these elegant animals, and skilled spinning have converged, resulting in exquisite yarn creations showcased at national events.

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Horses

In Charleys Forest, horses have distinct roles. Some help with cattle herding, reflecting generations of survival strategies. Others are selectively bred for racing, showing human-driven evolution. These versatile creatures also serve as companions for leisure riding and exploration, reflecting natural diversification. In Charleys Forest, horses embody both tradition and evolving human-environment interaction.

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Pine Plantations

In Charleys Forest, large-scale pine plantations predominantly cater to the paper production sector, with Visy spearheading this initiative. These precisely aligned pine tree formations symbolize a drive toward economic diversification through resource allocation. Despite claims of sustainable forestry practices, the reality raises concerns about the environmental repercussions, including soil degradation and ecosystem disruption. The prominent role of Visy accentuates the intersection of industry and ecological impact. The juxtaposition of these managed pine forests against Charleys Forest's natural backdrop necessitates a deeper exploration of the intricate balance between resource exploitation and environmental preservation.

 

Vineyards

Charleys Forest boasts a presence in the viticultural domain with Sapling Yard Wines. This vineyard has contributed to the area's economic landscape, offering wines that encapsulate the region's character. To the south, Half Moon Wines once experimented with cold climate viticulture, adding an innovative touch. While its current status might have shifted, the concept of cold climate wine production remains relevant. This trend aligns with the broader surge in quality and recognition for wines produced in such conditions.

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Market Gardening

The Charleys Forest Owl Farm Braidwood, led by David and Sarah, emphasizes practicality in produce. Their focus is local demand for fresh, quality food, avoiding fleeting trends. They employ a rigorous Crop Value Rating system, assessing maturation, yield, price, popularity, and storage. Braidwood's climate suits diverse garlic - Monaro Purple, California Late, Italian Red, Australian White, Printanor. Hand-planted in March, harvested in November, garlic air-dries by mid-December, storing up to six months. Heirloom and heritage potatoes like Burgundy Blush, Purple Congo, Dutch Cream, King Edward echo traditional flavors. Unique shallots and pumpkins - Canada Crookneck, Red Kuri, Winter Luxury, Musque de Provence - boast extended storage. Their 2019 NSW victory in delicious Produce Awards' Earth category validates Owl Farm Braidwood's commitment.

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Nursery

Currockbilly Mountain Nursery

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Eco Flower Farming

Wildside Flower Farm

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Artists

Charleys Forest's allure as a haven of natural beauty has attracted artists from diverse disciplines to call it home. The serene landscape serves as an inspiring backdrop for creative expression, nurturing a community of artists drawn by its captivating charm.

Poet - Royall Tyler Under Currockabilly "Under Currockbilly". AbeBooks. Retrieved 2 December 2021.

Cath Moore,

 

Tales and Anecdotes from Locals

• talk to Reg, Andy

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Conservation and Challenges

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Environmental Threats and Challenges

Climate Change:

Climate change has notably imprinted its impact on Charleys Forest. Unpredictable weather patterns, including unseasonal frosts, potential floods, and untimely snowfalls, disrupt traditional agricultural cycles. The yearly average annual rainfall's fluctuation from 300 mm to over 1000 mm adds another layer of uncertainty. These climatic shifts challenge local farmers, altering the landscape of crop production and land management. This evolving dynamic underscores the urgent need for adaptive strategies to address the growing influence of climate change on Charleys Forest's ecosystem and agricultural practices.

Native Vegetation Clearing:

The clearance of native vegetation in Charleys Forest has been notably influenced by both the Rural Boundary Clearing Code and the aftermath of the Charleys Forest Fires. The Rural Boundary Clearing Code permits landholders to clear vegetation within 25 meters of their property boundary, leading to the removal of vital habitat. This, compounded by the extensive damage caused by the fires, has had a pronounced impact on the area's remnant vegetation. The combined effects of these factors have significantly altered the landscape and posed challenges to the preservation of Charleys Forest's unique ecosystem.

Farming Practises:

The continuatioon of cattle breeding for meat and the Angus breed's suitability to the region's landscape has led to its prominence, yet concerns have emerged regarding the environmental impact of the industry. Excessive herbicide use, often employed to manage pastures for grazing, raises questions about chemical exposure and soil health. The increase in land subdivision and development also means new barbed wire fences which are a potential hazard to wildlife, given the increased risk of entanglement and injury.

The expansion of these operations has sometimes led to habitat destruction, potentially compromising local biodiversity.

Water pollution

Water pollution in Charleys Forest is exacerbated by practices such as clearing near creeks, herbicide usage, and inadequate farming methods, compounded by intensified water pumping from the creeks, collectively posing a threat to the local waterways' ecological health.

During the 2021 Bushfire Season, Phos-Chek fire retardant was used throughout the water catchment.
 

Conservation Organizations and Initiatives

• Upper Shoalhaven Landcar Council

• Friends of the Mongarlowe River

• Mongarlowe Landcare

• Private Wildlife Refuges (such as Half Moon), Land for Wildlife Properties, Landcare Projects etc, Macquarie Perch Sampling project,

 

How to Support Conservation Efforts

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Gallery:

Maps of Charleys Forest

Photographs of Flora, Fauna, Landscapes, and Landmarks

Illustrations and Diagrams

 

Contributors and References:

Acknowledgments

Acknowledge individuals or organizations that contributed to your research or provided insights.

References

Provide a list of references, sources, and recommended reading for those who want to learn more.

Contact and Engage:

Encourage readers to share their own stories or experiences related to Charleys Forest.

Include social media links or a contact form for direct engagement.

Conclusion:

Recap the importance of Charleys Forest's natural history and the need for its conservation.

Encourage readers to explore and appreciate the area in person.

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