Stanthorpe BA August 2024
After a break, we’re back at Bungulla Farm, diving into the next phase of the fencing project. The electric fencing is nearly complete in the main area of the farm anyway. Our focus has now shifted to tackling the remote boundary fences and the rugged terrain behind Red Hill.
Here, the granite belt lies just beneath the topsoil, making it difficult or near impossible to dig in round post strainers. Instead, we’re resorting to a method of securing the fence by drilling and hammering railway spikes into larger trees. This approach is labour-intensive and slows progress, especially since we have to carry tools and materials by hand due to the steep, wooded terrain and multiple creek crossings. Replacing flood gates at these crossings adds another layer of complexity, but we’re managing.
The farm's wildlife provides both beauty and a few headaches. Kangaroos are a common sight in the paddocks, while wild pigs and rabbits leave their mark with burrows that can be hazardous. Long grass and hidden holes pose a risk to both humans and vehicles, we’ve been fortunate to avoid major incidents so far.
One of the highlights of our routine is the vibrant community of backpackers we work with. Each Saturday night, a different nation takes the helm to cook a traditional dinner for the group. With an average of 35-40 people to feed, this is no small task! The diversity of the group is remarkable—at our roll call, we’ve had representatives from 14 different countries.
Backpackers generally stay for 88 days to qualify to extend their working holiday visas, so we frequently see new faces as some depart and others arrive. Despite the turnover, these new volunteers pick up skills and contribute to the fencing operations.
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| New creek flood gate. |
