Binocular installation treats hikers and mountain bikers to views of Birramal Conservation Area

Wagga Wagga City Council has installed two sets of binoculars at the lookout in Birramal Conservation Area for the summer holidays affording hikers and mountain bikers a closer look at the surrounding flora and fauna.

Environmental Education Officer Alice Kent said it gives visitors the opportunity to spot the wildlife in this 128-hectare parcel of land dedicated to the protection and enhancement of the environment.

Kent notes “the new binoculars offer visitors a brand-new perspective on this protected area.

“We’ve put the two sets at different heights to ensure young children can also enjoy the wonders of wildlife and the spectacular views from the lookout.

“A hike or mountain bike ride through the Birramal Conservation Area is a perfect adventure these school holidays and the lookout provides a perfect picnic spot with shade, seating, a bike rack and now, binoculars.”

The Birramal Conservation Area features a great diversity of fauna and flora with the south-western section of the Wiradjuri Trail taking in woodlands, open grassland, gullies, creeks and hills.

Kent advised that spaces like Birramal are essential for the protection and enhancement of threatened species and added “the area is known to support the locally threatened Superb Parrot which is frequently spotted in the woodland areas.

“Efforts have also been made to support the locally endangered Squirrel Glider population, with community planting events adding native species that will provide food and habitat for this nocturnal gliding possum.

“Glider poles have also been installed to help the Squirrel Gliders travel safely through Birramal by reducing the risk of predation by cats, dogs or foxes.”

Visitors access the Birramal Conservation Area via the Wiradjuri Trail from Holbrook Road and take the trail west.

Image courtesy of Wagga Wagga City Council