Why rainforest regeneration is so important to us
Shaun Martin is one of the Co-Founders of Yaru Water. He and his family have lived on the land in the upper Tweed river catchment area since 1904, and he passionately continues the family tradition of regenerating native flora and fauna.
Since Shaun can remember, it has become an annual pastime to plant native species. From Fig Trees to Oaks, Shaun says that they have planted in excess of 50 different species in the riparian zone.
“I have a love of the rainforest. I guess it’s just always been a part of my life. Bushwalking is something that enables me to escape and I’ve always been in awe of the rainforest that surrounds us. Planting native species is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts of our year. Native species help to manage the introduced and invasive species such as Cat’s Claw and Camphor Laurel. They also help to protect the creek banks and waterways in general, and give many of our wildlife species a safe home.”
Continuing to restore and care for the critically endangered rainforest is something that will remain on the agenda for Shaun’s family and Yaru Water for years to come. His sons are already learning about the different species and how they can help to protect the natural environment and wildlife that surrounds them.
Shaun added;
“Community and environment have always been so important to Yaru. When we founded Yaru with our Indigenous partner in 2011, it gave us the opportunity to learn more about the land from the oldest culture in history. It’s so important to have this insight and perspective. Together we will continue to care for the rainforest that surrounds us, and pass that knowledge on to future generations”.
