Field Trip to Klori TSR – Grassy-Box Woodland with Ecologist David Carr

Field Trip to Klori TSR – Grassy-Box Woodland with Ecologist David Carr

The Klori Travelling Stock Route (TSR) north of Somerton NSW offers a rare glimpse into a high-value remnant grassy-box woodland remnant in the wheat-sheep belt. Originally part of the Crown land network set aside to allow livestock movement, TSRs like this one are now recognised not just for their pastoral heritage but also for the biodiversity, cultural heritage and connectivity they provide across the landscape.

What to Expect:

On this trip you’ll be guided by David Carr, principal ecologist at Stringybark Ecological. David brings 35 years of experience in ecological restoration, biodiversity assessment and communicating science to land managers and community groups.

He will lead us through the woodland, pointing out key tree species, grass and wildflower layers, fallen timber, hollows and other habitat features, and explaining the threats, management considerations and conservation importance of these woodlands.

Second Stop

We’re excited to announce an additional stop on our Klori Bus Trip — a visit to the McVey family property, “Aytonlea” at Winton. Over the past 15 years, the McVeys have planted more than 7,000 native trees and shrubs, creating a thriving landscape that blends production with biodiversity.

The majority of the earlier plantings focused on establishing eucalypt shelterbelts surrounding perennial subtropical and legume pastures. In more recent years, new plantings have expanded to include a greater variety of shrubs and groundcovers, designed to enhance habitat diversity and resilience. This evolving landscape demonstrates how thoughtful, long-term planning can transform farmland into a functioning ecosystem capable of supporting healthy, productive trees for generations to come.

We’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch at Aytonlea, giving everyone a chance to take in the results of this ongoing work and discuss the McVeys’ vision for the next 50 to 100 years of landscape regeneration. It’s an inspiring example of how persistence, diversity, and good design can build both productivity and ecological health — the perfect way to wrap up our day together.

This event is a wonderful opportunity for landcare members, farmers, naturalists, students and anyone interested in native vegetation, restoration, ecology and local landscape heritage.

What to Bring:

• Hat, sunglasses
• Water bottle (stay hydrated)
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven ground
• Sun-smart clothing
• Notebook or camera (optional)
• We’ll supply light refreshments and lunch, but feel free to bring your own extra snacks if you like.

Where and When:

We will depart promptly at 9.30am from the TRLA Nursery; please arrive a little earlier for check-in. The bus will return at approximately 2.30pm. If meeting at the Klori site, further instructions and map will be provided after registration.