Want to help local wildlife thrive without even leaving campus? Here are five easy ways you can get involved with Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary located at La Trobe’s Melbourne (Bundoora) campus.
In the heart of La Trobe’s Melbourne (Bundoora) campus lies the Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary – 30 hectares of rewilded bushland where endangered animals are reintroduced, biodiversity is restored and native flora thrives. It’s a living example of what’s possible when people come together to care for Country.
Whether you’re an animal lover or just enjoy a quiet stroll through nature in between classes – here are five easy ways you can get involved at the Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary.
1. Plant indigenous species in your own backyard
You can support local biodiversity right at home. Nangak Tamboree’s Indigenous Plant Nursery offers a huge range of native plants perfect for gardens, balconies and schools across Melbourne’s north. Not only do they look great but they also help create vital habitat for local wildlife.
Bonus tip: Autumn is the best time to plant! Cooler temperatures and seasonal rain help young plants establish strong roots.
2. Attend a guided walk or community event
Nangak Tamboree runs events that are open to everyone – including students. Join one of their twilight tours or seasonal bird walks and discover the rich history of the area, identify local species and experience the bushland in a brand-new way. Plus, you might spot an echidna or one of the friendly local emus while you’re at it.
3. Follow and share on social media
If you love nature photography or want to support conservation from your phone, following the Sanctuary’s Instagram and Facebook accounts is a simple way to stay connected. You’ll get wildlife updates, event news, and the occasional adorable kangaroo photo. And if you spot something cool at the Sanctuary, snap a pic and tag @wildlifelatrobe in your post. You might even get featured on their pages!
4. Join a Citizen Science project
Help researchers and ecologists monitor the Sanctuary by submitting your sightings of native birds, frogs, insects and plants. Using platforms like iNaturalist or e-Bird, you can contribute valuable data that helps the Sanctuary track species, even if you’re just out for a casual walk through the bush. You can explore the Sanctuary’s current Citizen Science projects here.
5. Donate, advocate, and spread the word
Even small actions have ripple effects. Mention the Sanctuary to a friend. Share a post. Donate if you can. The more people who know about this unique campus resource, the more support it gains and the greater impact it will have.
The Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary isn’t just bushland, it’s a story of regeneration, learning and community. It’s open to everyone and students are especially welcome to explore, connect and be part of its journey. The more we get involved today, the better the future will be for generations of people and possums to come.
Find out what’s happening at Nangak Tamboree Wildlife Sanctuary