Conservation Project - Enhancing Water Security & Biodiversity Island Brook Estate is proud to be selected as a demonstration site for the Margaret River region under the WAWSAP Project, Enhancing Water Security & Biodiversity through Dam and Riparian Rehabilitation. The Wine Australia Water Stewardship & Adaptation Program (WAWSAP) is a government-backed initiative designed to strengthen water security and biodiversity outcomes across wine regions through sustainable land management practices. This recognition places the estate among a small number of regionally significant properties leading the way in best-practice land and water management. A Milestone for the Estate We are incredibly excited to have secured funding and support through this program. This project represents a major step forward in our long-term commitment to restoration, sustainability, and ecological stewardship. Our selection reflects a strong and genuine commitment to the full duration of the project, a clear readiness to commence meaningful on-ground works, and the significant ecological value of the property. Together, these factors highlight Island Brook Estate’s capacity to deliver lasting environmental outcomes and contribute to broader conservation efforts across the region. Island Brook Estate is now recognised as a site that can demonstrate real, measurable conservation outcomes for the wider region. The project focuses on strengthening water security and improving dam function, while restoring and protecting vital riparian ecosystems. Through these efforts, it aims to enhance overall biodiversity and support healthier, more resilient habitats, ensuring long-term environmental sustainability across the property. The estate is home to important environmental features, including: Two threatened species: Carter’s freshwater mussels Burrowing crayfish Extensive areas of high-quality native bushland This makes Island Brook Estate a critical site for conservation and restoration efforts within the Margaret River region. What Being a Demonstration Site Means As a designated demonstration site, Island Brook Estate will play an important role in showcasing best-practice environmental management, providing a platform for site visits, workshops, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. The project will also contribute to regional case studies and knowledge sharing, helping to inform and inspire broader conservation efforts. This represents an opportunity not only to enhance the health of our own land but to actively contribute to shaping the future of sustainable land management across the region. Project Timeline The program runs through to March 2028, with key milestones including: April – May 2026 - Site planning, assessments, and baseline data collection By June 2026 - Plant orders confirmed (critical deadline for future planting) May 2026 – January 2027 - Site preparation, fencing, weed control, and early works April – June 2027- Major native revegetation planting January 2028 - Completion of all on-ground works March 2028- Program completion We’ll be sharing updates as the project progresses, from planning through to on-ground works and long-term outcomes. Follow along as Island Brook Estate becomes a living example of conservation in action
