EcoGipps News and Updates
With conservation activities happening across four properties and cover over 1,000 acres, there's always something happening at EcoGipps. See our latest posts below.
What happens to our land when we can no longer care for it?
In 2025, the founders of EcoGipps, Jim and Heather Phillipson made the bold decision to donate their 105 hectare North Paddock property to Biodiversity Legacy. This gift is the consolidation of Jim and Heather’s intent to rehabilitate and restore private landholding for protection beyond their life-time
A day out with the Ben Cruachan Walking Club
Local bushwalkers from the Ben Cruachan Walking Club recently had the opportunity to not only enjoy a beautiful day out in the bush, but to hear firsthand about the Phillipson’s personal journey to restore and rejuvenate the land.
North Paddock gifted to BioDiversity Legacy
In a pioneering act of generosity, the Phillipson family has donated their 105-hectare property, North Paddock, to not-for-profit organisation BioDiversity Legacy for lasting protection and ecological stewardship. This significant contribution is the first of three planned property donations over the coming years.
Why we’re installing bird hollows at the EcoGipps farm
The EcoGipps farm already provides significant habitat for local birds. So, why are strapping salvaged hollow logs to tree branches? In truth, old tree hollows are in short supply, so we’re stepping in to provide more secure shelter for resting and nesting.
EcoGipps Birds on Farms project
EcoGipps has been conducting seasonal Birds on Farms surveys since 2018. Beginning with four survey sites and roughly 10 bird species identified on each site, EcoGipps now has 13 survey sites, with an average of 20 birds identified on each site.
Sustainable Landscapes students visit EcoGipps
EcoGipps was pleased to host a group of Sustainable Landscapes students from the University of Melbourne in April 2025. The visit was part of the master’s students two-day adventure to Gippsland, where they learned about different land management practices across the region.
Seeding Succession at the Heyfield Wetlands
EcoGipps has partnered with the Heyfield Wetlands, Avon Landcare and community volunteers to showcase local plant species found in the Gippsland Grassy Plains bioregion, ensuring that expert knowledge is shared amongst the wider community.
Oh Deer! Feral Pest Control at EcoGipps
An important pillar of our conservation work at EcoGipps is the management of introduced feral animals, including the Sambar species of deer, which cause extensive damage to native vegetation and waterways.
Platypus Protection
EcoGipps is thrilled be participating in eDNA Platypus Project, which seeks to better understand the long-term impacts of the 2019-20 summer bush fires on platypus populations in East Gippsland.
When Less is More: Exploring Eco-Thinning
To promote ground vegetation growth, which assists to both hold the top soil together, reduce erosion, boost soil health, moisture retention and biological activity, EcoGipps has commenced an eco-thinning project.
EcoGipps Boasts 100+ Bird Sightings
Over 120 bird species have been spotted in and around EcoGipps, from a possible 272 species local to the area.
We are particularly excited to make sightings of Swift Parrots, which are Critically Endangered.