News

Predators on the Peaks - saving the Mountain Pygmy possum

Feral cats kill an estimated 15 billion native animals every year in Australia. More than 200 threatened species list feral cats as a major risk including one of our smallest and most vulnerable mammals, the Mountain Pygmy possum. Fewer than 2,000 remain in the wild.

Native seed forum brings together 60 sector leaders

Around 60 representatives from across the native seed and restoration sector gathered for a full‑day forum, bringing together expertise from organisations including Local Land Services NSW, Cassinia Environmental, Rural City of Wangaratta, Indigo Council, Landcare groups from NE and Southern NSW, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Traditional Owner partners, native seed nurseries and ecological consultancy services.

Doing our bit for Clean Up Australia Day

The North East CMA team was proud to join forces with Wodonga TAFE for a hands‑on Clean Up Australia Day activity along House Creek.

2026 bushfires update

In the North East region, the Walwa – River Road fire started on 5 January and burnt from the Murray River down to the Wabba Wilderness and was classified as contained on 6 February 2026.  

As at 12 February 2026 approximately 121,500 hectares (Ha) has been burnt. The burnt area is 78% public land, that includes 13,500 Ha of pine plantations.  22 % of the fire impacted private land with at least 14 residences burnt, numerous agricultural buildings and stock losses.  

As well as sites of cultural heritage, many areas of high value biodiversity habitat, significant community assets were impacted including Shelley Camp, Avondale Gardens, the Upper Murray Landcare Office and the Upper Murray Rail Trail and heritage trestle bridges.