It may be assumed that the following birds were observed on most or all outings near Echuca-Moama: Galah, Magpie, Buff-rumped Thornbill, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Superb Blue Wren, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, Starling, House Sparrow, Crimson Rosella (Yellow form), Striated Pardalote, Red-rumped Parrot, Maned Duck, Kookaburra, Long-billed Corella, Grey Shrike Thrush, Black Duck, Maned Duck, White-plumed Honeyeater, Noisy Miner, Red Wattle Bird, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Welcome Swallow, Australian Raven, Little Raven, Brown Tree-creeper, White-throated Tree-creeper, Rock Dove, Crested Pigeon, Magpie Lark and Willie Wagtail. Hence they are probably not listed below.
2003
January. Our first outing for 2003 was an early morning walk in Horseshoe Lagoon Bicentennial Park, Moama. Although drought conditions prevailed, 48 species were observed, including Australasian Grebe, Dusky Moorhen (with young), Black Kite, Whistling Kite, Musk Lorikeet, Azure Kingfisher, Sacred Kingfisher, White-throated Tree-creeper, Brown Tree-creeper, Grey Shrike Thrush, Grey Fantail, Red-browed Finch, Dusky Woodswallow and Silvereye. Leader: Craig Vale.
The following day, nine Birds Australia and BOCA members met at Hird Swamp near Leitchville to carry out a survey to determine how many Painted Snipe were present. The swamp has been artificially flooded and gum boots were required to wade through it. 23 were observed. There were large numbers of Black-tailed Native Hens. Other birds observed included Orange Chat, White-fronted Chat, White-winged Wren, Bittern, Red-kneed Dotterel, Black Kite, Brown Falcon, Black Duck, Whiskered Tern and Black-winged Stilts. Several members visited Hird Swamp at various other times during January and February, so good was the birding there.
Moira Forest In mid February, 17 of us visited Moira Flora Reserve and Moira State Forest. First stop was Algeboia Plain, on which the grass was green and tall as a result of the Murray overflowing its banks when much water was pushed down the river to meet the needs of South Australia. Some of us walked along a track between the plain and the Moira Channel to Moira Lake. Around 40 species were observed here, including a young Sea Eagle, Sacred Kingfisher, Swamp Harrier and scores of Pelicans. We then drove across the plain, stopping briefly, to the confluence of Swifts Creek and the Murray (³The Narrows²) where we had lunch and a short walk alongside the river. The entire Moira Lakes area is now a 1,450ha Flora Reserve which has been fenced off; cattle have been removed and logging is not permitted. The lushness of the Algeboia Plain was in marked contrast to the rest of the forest which was very badly drought stricken. Next stop was at Poverty Point from near the river, over Warwick Creek and into a very dry Reed Beds Swamp. We returned to the highway via Tarragon Lodge (where the road has been remade and the area ³tidied up and developed²) and Picnic Point Road. 51 species were observed. Leader: Keith Stockwell.
Our next outing was to Yambuna, a locality close to the Murray River between Echuca and Barmah, on 1st March. Around 58 species were observed, including most of those listed in colour above. But we had to work hard to attain this number. This day was cool and followed a good fall of rain, the best for many months. The trees and shrubs appeared in good condition despite the drought but the ground was rather bare apart from leaves and some saltbush.
Gunbower Island At least 37 members and friends attended our March outing to Gunbower Island led by Denise Morrison. Many who attended were from the Cohuna district and some were on their first birding outing. Hopefully, some who attended will join BOCA and hopefully steps will be taken to form a BOCA branch based on Cohuna. Upon our arrival on Gunbower Island, reputed by locals to be the largest inland island in the Southern Hemisphere, Denise gave an interesting talk about the island whilst we enjoyed morning tea. Afterwards, we walked alongside the creek opposite Deniseıs block before driving alongside the creek to a lovely lagoon alongside privately-owned bushland where, amongst other water birds, we observed a family of Darters. After lunch, we travelled through Gunbower State Forest to inspect a huge old River Red Gum which we estimated to be well over 40 metres in height. The monster dwarfed those who stood in front of the tree. It would take more than a dozen people with arms outstretched to form a ring around this giant, by far the largest red gum most of us have ever seen. By contrast, trees around it appeared relatively young and small. Close by is an area normally flooded which supports rookeries in most years. The water depth where we stood looking at the nests is usually up to two metres deep. But this year the parched earth wads badly cracked and sometimes a foot fell into a deep crack. Last stop was a reclaimed tip on the outskirts of Cohuna where we added another half dozen species to the dayıs list. Although this Ramsar wetland is experiencing a terrible drought, we observed 63 species, including Red-capped Robin, Little Pied Cormorant, Azure Kingfisher, Southern Whiteface, Brown Tree-creeper and White-throated Tree-creeper.
Wyuna. On 6th April, Bev & Alan Curtis and Allan Corry led us on an outing to the Wyuna area. One stop was at Wyuna Riverside Reserve, an area of box and red gum forest alongside the Goulburn River. We then returned to the Murray Valley Highway, crossing the Goulburn on McCoy's Bridge. We then followed roads that ran parallel to Wakiti Creek, stopping en route. Next stop was Wakiti Church, in the grounds of which Grey-crowned Babblers were observed. We crossed the Goulburn again on Yambuna Bridge, stopping again downstream of the bridge. Nearby, we stopped to observe a White-bellied Sea Eagle. We returned to the highway via O'Dea Road, stopping en route to observe Singing Honeyeater and six Brown Falcons. Other birds observed included Australian Shelduck, Grey Teal, Chestnut Teal, Darter, Masked Lapwing, Bronzewing, Crested Pigeon, Azure Kingfisher, Dollarbird, Weebill, Jacky Winter, Red-capped Robin, Varied Sitella, Crested Shrike-tit, Golden Whistler, Rufous Whistler, Restless Fly-catcher, Pied Butcherbird, Zebra Finch, Diamond Firetail and Tree Martin. Total: 73 species.
Mt Hope and Kow Swamp. In mid May, we drove to a property adjoining the Mt Hope Flora Reserve and returned via Kow Swamp. Only four or five species were observed at Mt Hope and the area was still suffering from a terrible seven-year drought. During the course of the day, however, members managed to observe over 50 species, including Darter, Pelican, Black Kite, Whistling Kite, Wedgetailed Eagle, Nankeen Kestrel, Caspian Tern, Silver Gull, Musk Lorikeet, Eastern Rosella, Singing Honeyeater, Pied Butcher Bird and Silvereye.
Five and Ten Mile Reserves, Perricoota Road Moama. On an overcast day in mid June, Peter Allan (pictured below) led us on a visit to a number of birding spots along Perricoota Road, Moama. We stopped at Rich River Lakes, Ten Mile Reserve, Perricoota Woolshed Swamp, Womboota Village (where we had lunch and visited a winery/pottery) and The Five Mile (Moama State Forest). 67 bird species were observed, including Grey Teal, Hardhead, Pelican, White-necked Heron, Whistling Kite, Little Eagle, Purple Swamp Hen, Dusky Moorhen, Coot, Black- fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing, Silver Gull, Bronzewing, Eastern Rosella, Weebill, Western Gerygone, Chestnut-rumped Thornbill, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Little Thornbill, Southern Whiteface, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, Red-capped Robin, Flame Robin, Grey-crowned Babbler, Restless Fly-catcher, Golden Whistler, Pied Butcherbird, Australian Pipit, Tree Martin and Silvereye.
Torrumbarry In late September, six members attended an outing to Torrumbarry. In contrast to a much better-attended visit a year earlier, part of Murphy Swamp and Richardsons Lagoon contained water and supported lots of water birds. 75 species were observed, the same number as last year. Wattles were in flower alongside the Murray River. Birds observed included Blue-billed Duck, Musk Duck, Black Swan (breeding), Shelduck, Chestnut Teal, Pink-eared Duck, Darter, Little Pied Cormorant (breeding), Little Black Cormorant, Great Cormorant, Whistling Kite (breeding), White-bellied Sea Eagle, Black-tailed Native Hen, Black-fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing with chick, Sacred Kingfisher, Rainbow Bee-eater, Western Gerygone, Red-capped Robin, Crested Shrike Tit, Varied Sitella, Restless Flycatcher (breeding), Willie Wagtail (breeding), Tree Martin, Fairy Martin, Clamorous Reed Warbler and Little Grassbird.
Banyula Forest A late afternoon visit to Banyula Forest proved a disappointment owing to muddy tracks and lots of mosquitoes. We saw few birds and gave up to gain respite from the mozzies. We did enjoy the wildflower display, however.
Victoria Park 10 members and friends enjoyed a Sunday morning in Victoria Park, Echuca. 50 species were observed, including Darter, Little Black Cormorant, Masked Lapwing, Peaceful Dove, Sacred Kingfisher, Rainbow Bee-eater, Spotted Pardalote (breeding),Noisy Friar Bird (breeding), Jacky Winter, Rufous Whistler, White-winged Triller, Red-browed Finch (breeding), Mistletoe Bird and Silvereye. No birds of prey were observed.
Terrick Terrick National Park 15 members and friends enjoyed a Sunday at Terrick Terrick National Park. Bad weather was forecast but the day proved to be warm and mostly fine. And, apart from a terrible infestation of Patersonıs Curse and Cape Weed, Terrick Terrick was the best we have seen it in years, with lots of everlastings, Chocolate Lillies, Pimelea and other plants in bloom. It is recovering well after years of drought, rabbit infestation and cattle grazing. Around 55 bird species were observed, including Hooded Robin (with young), Diamond Firetail (breeding in nests with entrances decorated with everlastings), Red-capped Robin, Chestnut-rumped Thornbill, Gilbertıs Whistler, Western Gerygone, Mallee Ringneck, Brown Tree-creeper, White-winged Triller, White-browed Babbler, White-browed Wood-swallow, Dusky Woodswallow, Sacred Kingfisher, Tree Martin (breeding) and Jacky Winter.
Lower Campaspe River and Lake Cooper On 9 November, Peter Allan led 15 members to some good birding spots along the lower stretches of the Campaspe River and Lake Cooper. Around 75 species were observed, including Olive-backed Oriole (nesting), Whiskered Tern. Australian Shelduck, Black Swan, Red-Kneed Dotterel, Red-capped Stint., Black-winged Stilt, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Nankeen Night Heron, Crested Shrike Tit, Black Kite and Azure Kingfisher.
Grey-crowned Babbler Workshop Some members attended a Grey-crowned Babbler field trip, organised by local Landcare groups and led by Doug Robinson, in the Wyuna area on Thursday 13 November. Doug explained how their habitat could be protected and enhanced.
BOCA bird count Our bird count day which encompassed areas near Rochester, Tongala, Corop and Moama. Just eight members took part this year. The total count was 139 species, up two on last year. Over 12,000 individual birds were observed, compared to around 3,500 last year, largely due to the return of water birds to Lake Cooper which has a little water and extensive mud flats. But still not enough water for the speed boats or irrigators. Last year the lake was dry. There were over 700 Avocets, 1000 Red-necked Stints, 2000 Sharp-tailed Sandpipers and 700 Pied Stilts on the lake. Woodswallows and birds of prey were well down in number this year and bush bird numbers have yet to recover from the seven year drought. The swamp opposite Perricoota Woolshed alongside Perricoota Road again held some water and proved an excellent spot. Birds observed at the swamp included White-winged Triller (breeding), Straw-necked Ibis, Black-tailed native Hen, Swamp Harrier, Red-rumped Parrot, Brown Tree-creeper, Diamond Firetail, Reed Warbler, White-winged Chough, Rufous Whistler, Rufous Songlark (breeding), Little Grass Bird, Red-capped Robin, Restless Flycatcher and Jacky Winter. The Five Mile Reserve along Perricoota Road was a little disappointing but the eight species observed included Sacred Kingfisher and Western Gerygone. Other birds observed included both Grey-crowned and White-browed Babblers.
Some members participated in the annual Superb Parrot Count in early December near Deniliquin and near Picola. Over 300 parrots were observed this year, more than last year but the number is down on two years ago.
2002
Our president attended BOCAs Christmas Camp on a farm near Natimuk. Around 150 species were observed in the area, including a number of waders. There were large groups (of around 100) Black-tailed Native Hens on the property and on many of the surrounding lakes. A pair of brolgas was observed near Taylors Lake, Horsham. Around 1000 banded stilts were observed on White Lake, a salty lake south of Natimuk. Large numbers of coot and wood duck were observed on some of the lakes which held water. Most of the salt lakes around Mt Arapiles, to the north of the camp site, were dry. Because the area has suffered a long drought, lakes which held water were all well below capacity.
First outing for 2002 was to Victoria Park, Echuca. Purely due to chance, this site was selected for a proposed heliport. As we have observed around 50 species in the bushland here, the club lodged an objection, as did many others and the proposal has been "put on hold". 37 species observed this time, including whistling kite, masked lapwing, peaceful dove, musk lorikeet, sacred kingfisher, rainbow bee-eater, Jacky winter, red-capped robin, golden whistler and red-browed finch.
In mid February, we visted the Corop area. Around 65 species were observed, well above average, including brown quail, plumed whistling duck, darter, great egret, royal spoonbill, yellow-billed spoonbill, black-shouldered kite, black kite, whistling kite, spotted harrier, nankeen kestrel, brolga, red-necked avocet, red-capped plover, red-kneed dotterel, banded lapwing, masked lapwing, musk lorikeet, singing honeyeater, grey shrike-thrush, black-faced cuckoo shrike, singing bushlark, zebra finch and golden-headed cisticola.
In late February, we carried out a second survey of Banyula Forest. 51 species have now been observed over two surveys.
On 3rd March, we visted Tullakool Evaporative Ponds. Birds observed included marsh sandpiper, common greenshank, red-necked stint, sharp-tailed sandpiper, curlew sandpiper, black-winged stilt, red-necked avocet, banded stilt, red-capped plover, black-fronted dotterel and red-kneed dotterel, white-winged fairy wren, white-fronted chat, pied butcher bird, Richards pipit and golden-headed cisticola. 52 species at Tullakool. On the way home, some of us found diamond firetail, rainbow bee-eater, brown tree-creeper and many other bush birds in swampland opposite Perricoota Woolshed.
On 24 March, the Echuca and District branch celebrated its 10th birthday with an outing to Moama's Horseshoe Lagoon Bicentennial Park. Around 40 species were observed, including Darter, Azure Kingfisher, Grey Fantail, Red-browed Finch and Chestnut Teal. During lunch on the Thompson property near Echuca aerodrome, several other birds were observed, including Stubble Quail, and Black-fronted Dotterel. A total of around 48 for the day.
On 6 April, we visited Gulpa Island, south of Deniliquin. 19 attended and 57 species were observed in the forest, including Emu (three mobs), Stubble Quail, Black-shouldered Kite, Bronzewing, Peaceful Dove, Azure Kingfisher, White-browed Scrubwren, Weebill, Western Gerygone, Jacky Winter, Red-capped Robin, White-browed Babbler, Sitella, Gilberts Whistler, Golden Whistler, Rufous Whistler, Crested Shrike Tit, Oriole, Dusky Woodswallow, Diamond Firetail and Red-browed Finch.
On Thursday 11 April, nine of us carried out a night survey of Kanyapella Forest. Birds sighted included several Boobooks, Spotted Nightjar and Tawny Frogmouth.
On Saturday 13 April, we were represented at the opening of BOCAs enlarged HQ building by secretary Nance.
On Sunday 21 April, a perfect autumn day (fine, sunny and 25 degrees C), 12 members went on an outing along the Campaspe River between Echuca and Runnymeade. 67 species were sighted, illustrating the importance of vegetated riverside corridors.Three Gilbert Whistlers were sighted. Other birds observed included Musk Duck, Shoveller, Darter, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Dusky Moorhen, Coot, Black-winged Stilt, Red-kneed Dotterel, Peaceful Dove, Brown Tree-creeper, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Crested Shrike Tit, Restless Fly-catcher, Dusky Woodswallow, Zebra Finch, Fairy Martin and feral geese.
Some reckon that you can find more honeyeaters in the forests around Bendigo than anywhere else. When branch members visited Wellsford Forest in early May 2002, dry conditions prevailed and many plants had died. But, as members sat at a small dam eating lunch, the following species were observed: Yellow-tufted, Brown-headed, White-plumed, Yellow-plumed, Black-chinned, White-eared, White-naped and Fucous honey-eaters plus a Red Wattle Bird. A group of Yellow-tufteds looked magnificent, the sun shining directly onto them as they drank at the dam, their reflections being clearly seen. (About 90km north, the Echuca area has relatively few honeyeaters). Other birds observed included Pallid Cuckoo, Striated Thornbill, Crested Shrike-tit and Grey Curawong. Around 47 species were observed in the Junortoun area.
On 19 May, members visited the Denilquin area to be led by local naturalists Tom Wheller and Steve Seymour. 43 birds were observed in The Island Sanctuary, which borders the town's main shopping street! After spending the morning in this sanctuary, we drove to a number of wetlands in Deniliquin and added around 33 more to our list. En route we added emus to our list of 76! Species observed in Deniliquin included Plumed Whistling Duck, Musk Duck, Shelduck, Chestnut Teal, Pink-eared Duck, Darter, Great Egret, Black-shouldered Kite, Whistling Kite, Peregrine Falcon, Spotted Crake, Black-tailed Native Hen, Red-capped Plover, Black-fronted Dotterel, Purple-crowned Lorikeet (first time this bird has been observed in Island Sanctuary), Boobook, White-browed Tree-creeper, Brown tree-creeper, White-browed Scrubwren, Striated Thornbill, Yellow Thornbill, Blue-faced Honeyeater, Red-browed Finch and Mistletoe Bird (which sat on a twig alongside us as we had lunch).
Over the Queens Birthday weekend, some members attended a Sunraysia Branch outing to Murray Cliffs National Park (NE of Mildura in NSW). The area is flat mallee, belah (Allocasuarina)and pine country and it has been set aside to help protect the endangered Mallee Fowl. Over 50 species were observed, including Mulga parrot, Mallee Ringneck, Blue Bonnet, Splendid Wren, Grey Butcher Bird, Red-capped Robin and Apostle Bird. There were well over 150 Black-tailed Native Hens alongside a fenced dam (almost all the original dams have now been filled in to help control feral goats).
On 15 June, we enjoyed an outing along Perricoota Road. This road parallels the Murray between Moama and Barham (as distinct from Barmah which is upstream). Because the road used to be a stock route, its verges are fairly wide. moama and Green Gully Landcare groups have been busy revegetating these verges, supplementing the residual vegetation. As droving has all but ceased, natural revegetation is occurring. Where the river is close to the road, the strip of bushland is even wider. Our first step was one of these wide strips, the Five Mile Reserve (Moama State Forest). Birds observed here included Red-browed Finch, Jacky Winter, Bronzewing, Pied Currawong, Pied Butcher Bird and Pelican. Our second stop was a dry wetland opposite Perricoota Woolshed where we observed many species, including Dusky Woodswallow, Striated pardalote, Brown tree-creeper, Rufous Whistler and black-faced Cuckoo-shrike. We then drove on to a farm west of Womboota village. Birds observed there included Peaceful Dove, Eastern Rosella, Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, Fuscous Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, Flame Robin (around 15 birds), Restless Fly-catcher, Red-kneed Dotterel, Black-fronted Dotterel, Grey-crowned Babbler (endangered), Diamond Dove (very unusual in this area), Bronzewing, Olive-backed Oriole and White-fronted Chat. On the way back we observed a huge Wedgetailed Eagle nest (and a Wedgetail) plus Black-tailed Native Hens. We then enjoyed afternoon tea and bird call alongside the Murray in the garden of Eulinya Downs, a garden that has taken part in Australia's open garden scheme. Total for the day was 71 species, great for this time of year and great in view of the overcast weather conditions.
Joint outing: Murray Goulburn to visit Echuca-Moama. On the weekend of 14th and 15th July, members of the Murray Goulburn Branch stayed at Echuca Village and enjoyed birding in the Echuca District. There was a joint outing on the Sunday. Places visited included Murray Pines Sandhills Echuca, Horseshoe Lagoon Bicentennial Park Moama, Gulpa Creek Mathoura and some open mixed forest opposite the Reed Beds Picnic Point. 68 species were observed, including Emu, Darter, Little Pied Cormorant, Great Egret, Black-shouldeered Kite, Black Kite, Whistling Kite, Little eagle, Nankeen Kestrel, Diamond Dove (uncommon inj this area), Peaceful Dove, Azure Kingfisher, White-browed Scrubwren, Weebill, Southern Whiteface, Blue-faced Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honeyeeater, White-plumed Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, Flame Robin, Hooded Robin, Caried Sitella, Crested Shrike-tit, Pied Currawong, Mistletoe Bird and Silvereye.
Cussen Park Tatura and Warren Property Undera On 27th July, no Echuca residents turned up for our Tatura trip. But observers came from Denilquin, Bendigo, Seymour, Tatura, Shepparrton, Tallygaroopna, Ormond, Ivanhoe and Moama, over 20 in all. [We should change our name to Bendigo and District (BAD BOCA) or From Lots of Places (FLOP BOC)]. Local land care enthusiasts Scott Bridges and Greg Smith explained how a swampy rubbish strewn area has been revegetated. Bird hides, walking paths, bridges, a gazebo, picnic tables and a toilet have been constructed. Beds of local native plants have been prepared and some native grasses reintroduced. Ellen Anson then led us around the 33ha reserve. Around 50 species were observed including the best views of Spotted Crake most of us have ever seen. Other sightings included Brown Goshawk, Black-tailed Native Hen, Coot, Black-swinged Stilt, Red-necked AAvocet, Black-fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing, Silver Gull, Jungle Fowl (thanks for calling it from an adjoining property Tom), Crested Pigeon, Indian Mynah (alas!), Musk Lorikeet, Little Lorikeet, Greenfinch and Little Grassbird. After lunch (nance was away so no morning tea), we headed to nearby Undera to visit a property badly affected by rising water tables. As the dairy farm has become unproductive, the farmer has turned to farm forestry and fishery. On this depressing property,we observed over 20 species, including lots of Brown Quail, Grey Teal, Great Egret, Yellow-billed Spoonbill, Black-winged Stilt, Red-need Dotterel, Brown-headed Honeyeater and Golden-headed Cisticola. Before going on holidays, Bev and Alan Curtis checked out this property for us and saw a number of birds which we did not, including Grey Shrike thrush, Flame Robin, Little Thornbill, Zebra Finch, Swamp Harrier, Shelduck and Hoary-headed Grebe. Bev and Alan also observed Brown Quail, Red-kneed Dotterel, Black-fronted Dotterel as well as most of the more common birds. We thank all who assisted in the success of these outings.
Bush Birds of Boora Boora and Benarca. On 17 August, Craig led us around the area north-west of Moama. 15 attended and 67 species were observed, including Australasian Grebe, Darter, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Whistling Kite, Little Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Peaceful Dove, Budgerigar, Pallid Cuckoo, Weebill, Red-capped Robin, Singing Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honey-eater, Jacky Winter, Crested Shrike-tit, Dusky Wood-swallow and Grey-crowned Babbler. Once we left Echuca-Moama, we headed for unsealed road in search of Budgies. Unfortunately, a Melbourne couple, who were delayed en route, missed us at the station and didnıt catch up until we were leaving Cazalyıs riverside property ³Boora Boora². Then it was off to the Five Mile, Benarca, The 10 Mile and Thyra Road. Not everyone managed to see Budgies but we all heard them. As they were about to leave 10 Mile Reserve, two members saw three budgies. The weather was sunny and warm.
Barmah Forest Again under the leadership of Craig, we visited Barmah Forest early in September. The effects of drought were evident, with birds congregating close to rivers and lakes. After a brief stop at Barmah Town in search of Blue-faced Honeyeaters and Musk Lorikeets (they always seem to be found here), we drove off into a seldom-visited part of the forest alongside Broken Creek. there we observed around 50 species, including Brown Tree-creeper, White-throated Tree-creeper, Purple Swamp Hen, Dusky Moorhen, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, Jacky Winter, Restless Fly-catcher, Willie Wagtail, Striated Pardalote, Fairy Martin, Tree Martin, Welcome Swallow, Diamond Firetail, Pallid Cuckoo, Darter, Red-rumped Parrot, Rufous Whistler, Peaceful Dove, Sitella, Mistletoe Bird, Weebill plus several of the more common local birds. Along nearby Trickeyıs Lane, Grey-crowned Babblers were seen near a Superb Parrot nest (no Superbs were observed). We then drove deeper into the forest and enjoyed lunch along Hut Lake Track. A week before, the area had been dry but, with the release of irrigation water, water covered the road ahead, preventing us from reaching Hut Lake. After a few more stops, we enjoyed bird call alongside the Murray. 69 species were observed in the forest. It was great to meet up with members who have been on holidays for the winter, to meet new members the Hursts (pictured below standing either side of Bev Curtis) and to meet visitors from Wagga Wagga and Melbourne.
Bendigo Whipstick and Neilborough On a sunny 21st September, Pam and John Land led us to a lovely section of the Whipstick Forest off Naughton Track. We observed Little Eagle, Dusky Woodswallow, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, White-eared Honeyeater, Olive-backed Oriole, Crested Bellbird, White-browed Babbler, Rufous Whistler, Variegated Wren, Crested Shrike-tit, Varied Sitella, Red-capped Robin, Common Bronzewing and Jacky Winter. After an hour or so, drove through the forest to the Lands Neilborough property ³Elysian Downs². Eastern Yellow Robins were observed breeding higher up a tree than is normally the case. Other sightings included Musk Lorikeet, Spotted and Striated Pardalote, White-winged Triller, Western Gerygone, Diamond Firetail and many of the birds listed above. In all, 54 species. 25 members attended, including a visitor from Canada.
Moama Camp On Thursday 2 October, birdos started arriving at ³Corringle², alongside Bama State Forest, for BOCAıs early spring camp. Highlights of the camp included large mixed flocks of woodswallows (four species), a Sacred Kingfisher killing a bat, excellent views of a Dollar Bird and superb views of Superb Parrot. Although drought was affecting the area, an afternoon stroll from the camp site yielded around 35 species in the dry box-red gum bush, including Rufous Whistler, Noisy Friarbird, Western Gerygone, Mistletoe Bird, Dusky Woodswallow, White-browed Woodswallow, Masked Woodswallow, Richards Pipit, Weebill, Red-capped Robin, Nankeen Kestrel, Horsfieldıs Bronze Cuckoo, Brown Tree-creeper, Grey Fantail, Black Kite, Striated Pardalote, Spotted Pardalote and Peaceful Dove. Next morning, we were met by a young forestry officer who explained conservation measures being taken by NSW Forestry. First stop was the 2,000 ha ³Reed Beds Exclosure² which is closed to the public and from which logging, fishing and grazing has been prohibited (similar level of protection to a ³national park²). An attempt has been made to simulate the original flooding and drying regime using embankments and regulators. Since the area has been set aside, the vegetation has staged a magnificent recovery and the bird life is prolific. Birds observed included Emu, Horsfieldıs Bronze Cuckoo, Brown Thornbill, Mistletoe Bird, Peaceful Dove, Red-browed Firetail, Wedgetailed Eagle, Little Black Cormorant, Little Pied Cormorant, Azure Kingfisher, Sacred Kingfisher (one had a bat in its beak), Masked Lapwing, White-breasted Woodswallow, White-browed Woodswallow, White-faced Heron, White-necked Heron, Whistling Kite, White-bellied Sea Eagle and Swamp Harrier. After lunching at Cranes Bridge, alongside Gulpa Creek, we drove north along the Cobb Highway and into Gulpa Island. Langmans Sandhill was as dry as I have ever seen it and kangaroos were causing a lot of damage to the vegetation within the rabbit-proof fence. Grasses and ground layer plants seemed non-existent. Bird numbers were lower than usual but species observed included Bronzewing, Welcome Swallow, Sacred Kingfisher, Grey Shrike Thrush, White-browed Woodswallow, Yellow (form of Crimson) Rosella and Rainbow Bee-eater. After lunch alongside the Edward, we moved on to the Tea Tree Road Exclosure which was also suffering from the drought and over-grazing by kangaroos. Birds were scarce but we observed Red-capped Robin (breeding), Rufous Whistler, Brown Treecreeper, Silvereye, Western Gerygone, White-browed Woodswallow, Mistletoe Bird and Yellow Thornbill as well as the more common species such as the ubiquitous Superb Fairy Wren and White-plumed Honeyeater. Paul then led us along Taylors Bridge Track and along a rougher bush track to a spot where he had observed Superb Parrots whilst installing a new regulator. And what a great spot it was. Everyone enjoyed superb views of Superb Parrots which were nesting in a very old Red Gum. Other birds observed there included Fantail Cuckoo, Sacred Kingfisher, Australian Raven (breeding), Peaceful Dove, Jacky Winter, Long-billed Corella (breeding), White-throated Tree-creeper plus some of the more common locals. Paul then led us through the forest to the 1480ha Moira Lakes Flora Reserve. We drove onto a flooded Porters Plain where many Whiskered Terns were breeding. Other birds observed there included Little Grass Bird, Mountain Duck, Restless Flycatcher, Tree Martin, Reed Warbler, Sacred Kingfisher and Grey Shrike Thrush. We tried to drove on to Moira Lake but our progress was halted by a flooded track. It was after 5pm when Paul left us and Keith tried to lead us back to camp via forestry tracks and a long, dead-end road. As we drove through the forest, we came across a very large forestry coup and saw large numbers of kangaroos and emus, many of which may have been driven south from even more parched lands to the north. We arrived back at camp around 6.30. Saturday was an easier day. We headed back to Picnic Point Road to visit a favourite spot of one of the Echuca branchıs founders, Jon Hosford, and which time had precluded us from visiting the previous day. We were amazed when one vehicle in the convey failed to turn right and kept heading north on the highway toward Mathouraıs garage. It turned out that the brakes on the vehicle had failed and the occupants were, alas, unable to take any further part in the dayıs outing. Despite the dry, Jonıs spot did not let us down. Birds observed in this mixed native pine, box, red gum, allocasuarina woodland included Bronzewing, White-winged Chough, Jacky Winter, Red-rumped Parrot (breeding), Pied Butcher Bird, Brown Treecreeper, Noisy Friar Bird, Weebill, Striated Pardalote, Striated Thornbill, Yellow Thornbill, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Rufous Whistler, Red-capped Robin, Whistling Kite, Magpie Lark and Peaceful Dove. Then, after checking with the stranded that matters were in hand, we headed north to Deniliquin. First stop there was the Island Sanctuary, a Red Gum wetland in the main street. Birds observed within the sanctuary included Starling, Rock Dove, Blackbird, Darter, Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike, White-browed Scrub Wren, Reed Warbler, Restless Flycatcher, Maned Duck and Grey Fantail. After a stop at the local bakery, we found our way to a truck wash. In the pond alongside the wash, and in the nearby area, we observed Purple Swamp Hen, Dusky Moorhen, Black-tailed Native Hen, Red-kneed Dotterel, Black-fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing, House Sparrow, Australasian Grebe, White Ibis, Chestnut Teal, Singing Honeyeater, Zebra Finch (breeding), Pelican, Little Pied Cormorant as well as the more common birds (Galah, Magpie, etc). Next stop was a very arid indigenous plant garden, Blake Reserve, which is obviously not watered despite the fact that a channel runs through it. Birds observed here included Sacred Ibis, Reed Warbler, Rufous Whistler, Grey Fantail, Silvereye and Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike.
That evening, Dallas Wyatt, assisted by the Curtises and Allan Corry, took us spotlighting through the forest alongside our camp site. There were no birds to be observed until Allan played a tape of Boobook calls: four Boobooks immediately appeared.
On Sunday, Craig Vale led us to Torrumbarry, downstream of Echuca. First stop was Wills Bend, an interesting riverside forest, where we observed around 25 species. New birds for our list included Diamond Firetail, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Sitella, Pallid Cuckoo, Yellow-billed Spoonbill and Crested Shrike Tit. We also stopped by at Murphy Swamp. Then we travelled to a private property, a sandhill within the horse-shoe shaped Baillieuıs (Richardsons) Lagoon. The owner has decided to place a Trust for Nature Covenant on much of her property. Much of the sandhill is still covered in native grasses and the original vegetation, something that is very unusual in this area. Unfortunately the lagoon was completely dry (it very rarely dries out) and the Brolgas which normally live here had moved on. Had the lagoon been full, we would have had a most impressive bird list. It wasnıt bad, anyway. As it was, we observed 40 species, including Rainbow Bee-eater, Crested Shrike Tit, Little Eagle, Wedgetailed Eagle, Whistling Kite, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Dusky Woodswallow, Grey-crowned Babbler, White-browed Babbler, Diamond Firetail, Red-browed Finch, Red-capped Robin (breeding), Jacky Winter (breeding), White-winged Triller, Sacred Kingfisher, Peaceful Dove and Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike. We then wove our way along very rough forestry tracks and back roads to Torrumbarry Weir, Craig hoping to spot a Brolga en route. The green lawns and sprinklers of Torrumbarry Weir were a welcome sight and the toilets proved as popular as the ice-cream shop. The new weir is impressive though less spectacular than the old weir which resembled Niagara Falls when water plunged over the top. Birds observed here included Great Egret, Noisy Minor, Crested Pigeon, Darter, Little Black Cormorant, Black Cormorant, Blue-faced Honeyeater (first one for the camp) and Welcome Swallow.
On the Monday of the camp, we were led around Barmah Forest. We visited bushland alongside Broken Creek, a water-filled quarry along Corrys Mill Road (where we observed lots of species, including Hardhead, Coot, Little Grass Bird, Reed Warbler, Hoary-headed Grebe, Brown Falcon and Baillons Crake), some charcoal burners and Corryıs Old Mill (where Allan Corry explained how timber was processed in the old days) At an abandoned 50s brick home near Picola, just minutes after some campers left us for Melbourne, we sighted our first Dollar Bird. And another new bird for the list when we disturbed a Nankeen Night Heron. Bev also sighted Sitellas here. Around 97 birds were observed for the day.
On the Tuesday morning, the few remaining campers, plus seven Echuca members set off for Echuca Sewerage farm. Because of legal liability, we had to head off by foot into a strong wind. It was impossible to keep our scopes steady and there were fewer birds than usual. But we added some new birds to the camp list, including a solitary Black Swan, Blue-billed Duck, Maned Duck and Pink-eared Duck. A Swamp Harrier put on a marvellous show.
On the way back to Echuca, two members spied a pond brimming with birds, including White-fronted Chat, Black-winged Stilt, Whiskered Tern, Fairy Martin and Welcome Swallow. The Swamp Harrier appeared overhead, causing a kurfuffle. The total number of species observed during the camp exceeded all hopes and expectations: 136 species. The only birds I hoped would be on the list but which werenıt sighted were Brolga, Budgerigar, Magpie Goose (although one camper thinks he saw three fly over, honking), Golden Whistler and Gilberts Whistler.
In October 2002, the group visited Terrick Terrick National Park. Drought conditions prevailed and many waterholes and dams had dried out. The understorey was very badly affected. Some birds usually observed here, e.g. Mallee Ringneck, were conspicuous by their absence. Nonethelss, around 48 species were observed, including Little Eagle (breeding), Black-tailed Native Hen, Diamond Dove, Peaceful Dove, Rainbow Bee-eater, Southern Whiteface (breeding), Black-chinned Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, Hooded Robin, Golden Whistler, Gilberts Whistler, Rufous Whistler, Restless Flycatcher, Dusky Woodswallow, Masked Woodswallow, Mistletoe Bird and Diamond Firetail.
In early November, we visited the Kamarooka section of the Greater Bendigo National Park which had been proclaimed just a few days earlier. Despite drought conditionds, 62 species were observed but few species were present in large numbers. Birds observed included Brush Bronzewing, Little Eagle, Musk Lorikeet, Weebill, Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, Fuscous Honeyeater, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Hooded Robin (breeding), Crested Bellbird, Gilberts Whistler, Restless Flycatcher (breeding), Oriole, White-browed Woodswallow, Dusky Woodswallow, Masked Woodswallow, Grey Butcherbird, Grey Currawong and Silvereye. Many of the birds listed are not normally found closer to Echuca. At the end of the outing, our leader, Peter, took us Bendigo Creek (Picaninny Creek) where locals have erected a shed generously signposted as the Picaninny Hilton.
Later in November, the group visited Whroo, an old gold-mining area south of Rushworth. Despite the drought conditions, 45 species were observed, including Brown Goshawk, (four) Painted Button Quail, (five) Speckled Warbler, Weebill, Brown Thornbill, Fuscous Honeyeater, New Holland honeyeater, Yellow-plumed Honeyeater, Yellow-faced Honeyeater and Brown-headed Honeyeater.
On the last day of November, the annual bird count was conducted. 138 species were recorded within a 40km radius of Echuca, 81 species by the echuca-Perricoota Road group and 121 species by the Tongala group. Sightings included Stubble Quail (breeding), Brown Goshawk, Black-tailed Native Hen, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Black-fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing, Whiskered Tern, Diamond Dove, Peaceful Dove, Singing Honeyeater, Grey-crowned Babbler, Oriole, Singing Bushlark, Zebra Finch, Superb Parrot and Silvereye.
2001
President Keith attended the BOCA Christmas Camp at Jingellic. Birds sighted included Spotted Quail Thrush. Dollar Birds, Tree Martins, Rainbow Bee-eaters and Spotted Pardalotes were breeding in the area where we camped
.In January 2001 we visited Victoria Park, Echuca and Horseshoe Lagoon Park Moama. Over 60 species were observed including Dollar Bird, Brown Quail (being chased by a fox), Hardhead, White-faced Heron, White-necked Heron, Nankeen Night Heron, Royal Spoonbill, Yellow-billed Spoonbill, Purple Swamphen, Dusky Moorhen, Masked lapwing, Common Bronzewing, Crimson Rosella, Eastern Rosella, Sacred Kingfisher, Rainbow Bee Eater, Weebill, Little Friar Bird, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Crested Shrike Tit, Grey Shrike Thrush, Grey Fantail and Silvereye.
In February 2001, around 28 of us cruised the Murray at Barmah and visited a nearby farm. Over 50 species were observed including Musk Duck, Black Swan, Grey Teal, Great Crested Grebe, Australasian Grebe, Little, Intermediate and Great Egret, Nankeen Night Heron, Royal and Yellow-billed Spoonbill, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Masked Lapwing, Crimson and Eastern Rosella, Red-rumped Parrot, Azure and Sacred Kingfisher, Southern Whiteface, Noisy and Little Friar Bird, Rufous Whistler, White-breasted Woodswallow, Dusky Woodswallow, Diamond Firetail and Clamorous Reed Warbler.
In early March, Criag Vale led a trip along Perricoota Road, stopping en route at "Boora Boora", the Five Mile and Perricoota Wooshed Swamp. Over 50 species were observed.
Over the March Labor Day weekend, three members attended a BOCA camp at nearby Fernihurst, staying on Fernihurst Estate alongside a large area of remnant native bushland along a creek. We visisted Lake Leaghur and Leaghur State Park, Whychitella Flora Reserve, the Boort lakes, nearby properties and an indigenous plant nursery north-east of Boort where the owner explained how he was restoring an area of his property to native vegetation. The nurseryman, Paul Haw, also explained the importance of fencing water courses and of applying irrigation water wisely so that sanity problems do not arise.
In mid March, 19 members and friends attended an excursion to Mt Black Flora Reserve, Graytown. We were to meet at Graytown Post Office but Graytown did not appear to have a post ofice, or a shop, or a school, or any buildings at all! Around 40 species were observed, including a Yellow-faced Honeyeater, Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, Fuscous Honeyeater, New Holland Honeyeater, Painted Button Quail, Spotted Quail Thrush, Wedgetail Eagle, Fan-tailed Cuckoo, Tree Martin, Grey Currawong and Bronzewing. Nearby wetlands were not visited as it was the opening weekend of the duck shooting season.
On 31st March, 21 members and friends visited Barmah Forest, including Mannion's Yards, Snake Bend, Top End and Barmah Lake. We normally hope to see 50 species on an outing: we recorded 75 species this day! Species observed included Emu (many birds with chicks), Great Crested Grebe, Darter, Little Pied and Little Black Cormorant, Great Egret, Whistling Kite, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Purple Swamp Hen, Dusky Moorhen, Masked Lapwing, Bronzewing, Crested Pigeon, Peaceful Dove, Sacred Kingfisher, Western Gerygone, Striated Thornbill, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Superb Parrot, Leaden Flycatcher, Dusky Woodswallow, White-breasted Woodswallow, Red-browed Finch and Silvereye.Three members attended BOCAs Easter Camp in the Strathbogie Ranges, camping on a property not far from Too-rour Lodge where our branch had a camp several years ago. Birds observed on the camp included Grey-crowned Babbler, Bush Stone Curlew, Flame Robin, Scarlet Robin and a large number of honey-eaters. In all, well over100 species were observed.
On 29 April, we spent an afternoon in parts of Echuca Regional Park which the Branch has not previously visited. Two great bushland areas were visited. Birds observed included Darter, Peregrine Falcon, Sacred Kingfisher, Brown Tree-creeper and Brown-headed Honeyeater. We then visited a property alongside Echuca Aerodrome for a barbeque. En route we observed Singing Honeyeater, Maked Lapwing and Cisticola and Nankeen Kestrel Around 30 species were observed on the wetlands close to the owners' home, including Coot, Hoary-headed Grebe, Australasian Grebe, Black-fronted Dotterel, White-breasted Wood-swallow and Crested Shrike-tit.
In May, we visited the Welsford forest near Bendigo. A number of different honeyeaters were observed. The attendance was great: around 30 attended. We also visited spots along the Perricoota tourist Road and stopped off at a farm, "Womboo".
On 16 June Dallas Wyatt led us to Downey's property at Yambuna, east of Echuca. Part of the farm is used to grow wheat, but there were yabby ponds, tree belts and an agro-forestry plantation. Birds observed included Brown Quail, Black Swan, Shelduck, Hardhead, Australasian Grebe, Hoary-headed Grebe, Little Pied Cormorant, Great Egret, Intermediate Egret, Black-shouldered Kite, Whistling Kite, Coot, Bronzewing, Singing Honeyeater, Scarlet Robin, Flame Robin, Varied Sitella, Restless Flycatcher, Red-browed Finch, Fairy Martin and Golden-headed Cisticola. From the balcony of Downey's house, we could see a sea of trees.. 61 species were observed. 10 attended.
On 22 July our President showed us around a sandhill between the Edward (River) and Gulpa Creek near Deniliquin. We observed a remarkable difference between the vegetation within fenced enclosures and without. The last remaining banksias of the area grow in one of the fenced enclosures. Birds observed included Little Pied Cormorant, Black-shouldered Kite, Nankeen Kestrel, Bronzewing, Horsfield's Bronze Cuckoo, Yellow Thornbill, Jacky Winter, Red-capped Robin, Hooded Robin, Gilberts Whistler, White-browed Babbler, White-winged Triller, Olive-backed Oriole, Pied Butcher Bird, Richards Pipit, Red-browed Finch and Mistletoe bird. 45 species were observed. 10 attended.
On the afternoon of 4th August, we strolled along the Campaspe River. Birds observed included Little Pied Cormorant, Little Black Cormorant, Intermediate Egret, Dusky Moorhen, Peaceful Dove, Eastern Rosella, Azure Kingfisher, Weebill, Yellow Thornbill, Noisy Friarbird, Red-capped Robin, Golden Whistler, Rufous Whistler, Grey Shrike-thrush, Grey Fantail and Pied Currawong. 40 species were observed. 8 attended.
On a showery day (18th August), Peter led us to a number of spots in Kamarooka State Park which is to be absorbed into Greater Bendigo National Park. We discovered a delightful new walking track lined with blooming wattles, melaleucas and wildflowers. Birds observed included Shelduck, Grey Teal, Australasian Grebe, Little Pied Cormorant, Pallid Cuckoo, Fan-tailed Cuckoo, Horsfields Bronze Cuckoo, Variegated Fairy Wren, Flame Robin, Shy Hylacola, Weebill, Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, White-eared Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, White-browed Babbler, Crested Bellbird, Golden Whistler, Richards Pipit and Welcome Swallow. 45 species were observed. 7 attended.
In mid August, seven members and friends participated in a camping safari to Gluepot Station and the Bookmark Biosphere in north-western South Australia. They were blessed with excellent weather and the mallee was in bloom.En route to Gluepot, two of the party camped in Hattah and were inundated at breakfast by Blue-faced Honeyeaters and Noisy Miners which were happy to sit on cutlery and plates.
The Lands left a day earlier and, after picking up a census form lodged in their front gate, chose a remote bushland spot on Chowilla Station. It was census night. Soon after erecting their tent, a census distributor, who had followed their wheel-tracks, arrived! It started to rain so the Lands packed up and headed for a caravan park in Waikerie where they were presented with another census form. No doubt a form was left at their Melbourne unit as well! The Lands then set off for Gluepot a day ahead of the rest of us.The rest of the party met in Waikerie. After collecting the key to Gluepot, we drove straight on to the free ferry which crosses the Murray. We set up camp at a delightful camp site called "Sitella". We spent the next two days visiting to a number of sites in Gluepot which had been recommended by member of the Goulburn-Murray branch who had visited Gluepot a fortnight earlier.We were observing Crimson Chats by Kangaroo Dam (which has been filled in) when a members of EGBOCA arrived on the scene. Most of Gluepot is covered in mallee. Whilst we were there, the mallee and wattles were in flower. Yellow-plumed Honeyeater, Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, White-eared Honeyeater, Red Wattle Bird, Yellow-throated Miner, Chestnut-rumped Thornbill and Crested Bellbird were prolific. Other birds observed there included Emu, Australasian Grebe, White-necked Heron, Wood Duck, Common Bronzewing, Crested Pigeon, Mallee Ringneck, Mulga Parrot, Red-rumped Parrot, Singing Honeyeater, Purple-gaped Honeyeater, Grey-fronted Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Horsfields Bronze-cuckoo, Boobook, Welcome Swallow, B.F. Cuckoo-shrike, Hooded Robin, Red-capped Robin, Rufous Whistler, Gilberts Whistler, Grey Shrike Thrush, Chestnut Quail Thrush, Willie Wagtail, Jacky Winter, Splendid Fairy Wren, Striated Grasswren, Weebill, Varied Sitella, Spotted Pardalote, Striated Pardalote, Dusky Woodswallow, Grey Butcherbird, Grey Currawong and Australian Raven.Gluepot is every bit as good as it is cracked up to be. The camping sites are delightful and the graded roads are a pleasure to drive along. It will please the botanist as well as the bird watcher.
After three nights at Gluepot, we returned to Waikerie, again driving straight on to the ferry, to return the key and set off for Banrock Station. At Banrock we were met by bookmark Guide Bob Goodfellow who had been recommended to us by Trish Teasedale, a doyen of the BOCA office. Bob took us for a short stroll around the Banrock Wetlands (which turned out to be 7 kilometres). Since 1994, BRL Hardy Wines have been working closely with Wetland Care Australia to restore the station's wetlands and with greening Australia to restore the mallee woodlands on the property. Two trails have been developed to give bird watchers an opportunity to experience mallee and floodplain landscapes. Four bird hides have been erected around the wetland.Birds observed there included Pelican, Darter, Great Egret, Whistling Kite, Nankeen Kestrel, Black-tailed Native Hen, Black-fronted Dotterel, Regent Parrot, Mallee Ringneck, Red-rumped Parrot, Galah, Pallid Cuckoo, Tree Martin, Clamorous Reed Warbler, Little Grassbird, White -plumed Honeyeater, Brown Tree-creeper, Mistletoe Bird, Silvereye and other common water and bushland birds.We visited Bob's mallee block at Monash for lunch before stopping off at Berri Effluent Ponds, another great spot for waterbirds. Apostlebirds were observed alongside the ponds.
Then it was off into the Bookmark Biosphere, a 900,000 hectare conservation area north of Renmark. Most of the area is mallee which has been destocked. Some of the area is now owned by the Crown; some properties are still privately owned. A guide and a key are necessary in order to enter the Biosphere. We left Julie's car at ranger HQ and drove the sandy tracks of Calperum Station to Oak Bore Outstation, where we stayed for two nights. Thanks to the Werribee branch secretary for cleaning and restoring the kitchen table. Calperum has been divided into sections, each of which has its own land manager. The Oak Bore Landcare area is maintained by Renmark Lions Club. Renmark and Bookmark are aboriginal names.Most of the birds observed in Gluepot were also observed on Calperum Station but we added a few more to our list, including Black-eared Miner, Southern Scrub Robin, White-winged Wren, Brown Goshawk, Red-capped Plover, Red-necked Avocet, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Black-eared Cuckoo, Chestnut-crowned Babbler, White-backed Swallow, Richards Pipit, Striped Honeyeater, Southern Whiteface, Redthroat, Little Friar Bird and Pied Butcherbird. Most of the water birds listed here were observed on Lake Merreti. The White-fronted Chat was seen here and at Banrock. Tracks of Cobb and Coy coaches which travelled from Moama to Adelaide about 90 years ago were observed alongside the lake.On the way home, we camped at a remote camping ground along Pheeny's Track in Mallee-Sunset National Park. Again, the mallee and wattles were in flower. The Lands went for an early morning walk and took hours to arrive back in camp, such was the bird life of the area. Birds observed around this tiny camp ground included White-eared Honeyeater, Brown-headed Honeyeater, Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater, White-browed Babbler, Spotted Pardalote, Striated Pardalote, Southern Scrub Robin, Hooded Robin, Splendid Fairy Wren, Crested Bellbird, Yellow-rumped Thornbill, Weebill, Black-eared Cuckoo, Grey Shrike-thrush, Red-lored Whistler, Gilberts Whistler, Chestnut Quail Thrush, Shy Hylacola, and Crested Bellbird. This spot is surely one of the best birding sites in south-eastern Australia.In all, around 115 species were observed. It is hoped that a similar camping safari can be organised to Newhaven, August 2003.
Early in September, we visited Pine Grove, a locality east of Mitiamo, to examine some areas of native grassland. Few birds were observed on the grasslands, but clumps of trees alongside the grasslands supported a lot of birds, including Little Lorikeet, Pallid Cuckoo, Horsfields Bronze Cuckoo, Brown Treecreeper and Rufous Songlark. Leader Eris O'Brien stressed that, apart from Glassons, Terrick Terrick national Park and Patho Flora Reserve, there are only about five or six paddocks of native grasses remaining in the whole of Campaspe Shire!Later in September we visited the Johnson Property, Bailieston. Although mining has taken place on the property in the last, it has been undisturbed for over 20 years and supports a good range of birds including Brown Goshawk, Painted Button Quail, Bronzewing, Musk Lorikeet, Eastern Rosella, Pallid Cuckoo, Horsfield's Bronze Cuckoo, Shining Bronze Cuckoo, Weebill, Brown Thornbill, White-eared Honeyeater, Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, New Holland Honeyeater, Jacky Winter, Scarlet Robin, Hooded Robin, Varied Sitella, Gtolden Whistler, Rufous Whistler, Olive-backed Oriole, Dusky Woodswallow and Mistletoe Bird.
In October, the Lands held a BOCA camp on their Neilborough Property and well over 100 species were observed by participants, including Spooted crake and Bailons Crake. On the saturday of the camp, we had a branch outing to Terrick Terrick National Park (which was cut short owing to rain). Species were observed included Whistling Kite, Peaceful Dove, Brown Treecreeper, Southern Whiteface, Brown-headed Honeyeater (Breeding), Jacky Winter, Red-capped Robin, Hooded Robin, White-browed Babbler, Rufous Whistler (breeding), Gilberts Whistler, Diamond fieretail (breeding), Mistletoe Bird and Tree Martin.
Later in October, during Bush Month October, we visited Yando near Boort, and observed a number of birds, including Grey-crowned Babbler.
BOCA President Jill Plowright joined us for an outing to Millewa Forest in November. 68 species were observed, including Emu, Darter, Straw-necked and Royal Spoonbill, Swamp Harrier, Azure and Sacred Kingfisher (breeding), Dollar Bird, White-browed Scrubwren, White-winged Triller, Olive-backed Oriole, Dusky Woodswallow and Pied Butcherbird. Unfortunately the track into our destination, Walthours Garden, was too wet to enable us to complete the last kilometre but we walked down to the river nearby, opposite a bushland spot where one of our members lived many year ago.
Later in November, some members conducted a survey of the birds of Banyula Forest, Echuca. Around 50 species were observed, including Bronzewing, Mistletoe Bird, Weebill, Western Gerygone, Sitella, White-winged Triller and Red-browed Finch. Members recorded over 110 species on "bird count" day, on the first Saturday of December. Our Christmas lunch was held in bushland alongsdie the campaspe River within a kilometre of the post office.During a stroll alongside the river, around 20 species were observed, including Crested Shrike Tit, Olive-backed Oriole (breeding) and Silvereye.
Our president attended BOCAs Christmas Camp on a farm near Natimuk. Around 150 species were observed in the area, including a number of waders. There were large groups (of around 100) Black-tailed Native Hens on the property and on many of the surrounding lakes. A pair of Brolgas was observed near Taylors Lake, Horsham. Around 1000 Banded Stilts were observed on White Lake, a salty lake south of Natimuk. Large numbers of Coot and Wood Duck were observed on some of the lakes which held water. Most of the salt lakes around Mt Arapiles, to the north of the camp site, were dry. Because the area has suffered a long drought, lakes which held water were all well below capacity.