Introducing Alpine Area Chief Ranger Julien
During the 2019-20 bushfires in the Alpine National Park near Mt Selwyn, Area Chief Ranger Julien Atherstone and his team had a surprising encounter. While conducting backburning operations, they stumbled upon Long-footed Potoroos, an endangered species previously unknown to inhabit the area.
In the Alpine National Park's Barry Mountains section, there has long been a core population of Long-footed Potoroos. The discovery of these potoroos in a more extensive landscape expanded our comprehension of the environment we operate in. This newfound knowledge paved the way for funding applications and the establishment of a monitoring program aimed at locating and safeguarding these animals through fox control initiatives.
Julien's association with Parks Victoria spans nearly 14 years, primarily involving the management of portions of the Alpine National Park and Mt Buffalo National Park in north-east Victoria's Ovens area. With a background in civil engineering and outdoor education, Julien's role at Parks Victoria seamlessly combines problem-solving skills with a profound passion for the great outdoors.
Julien's work is incredibly diverse, encompassing subjects as varied as discussing endangered pygmy possums, preserving historic structures, addressing fox baiting concerns, and collaborating with Traditional Owners. He acknowledges the privilege of working in national parks, where people share an unwavering passion for the preservation of these natural wonders.
In addition to overseeing staff and infrastructure, Julien places great emphasis on the conservation of plants and animals. This involves long-standing pest plant control programs, especially in protected areas like peatlands. These areas are vital components of the ecosystem, contributing to water absorption and regulating runoff, with up to 30% of the Murray River's water originating from peatlands in the alps.
Historically, Mt. Buffalo has had limited pest animal programs, primarily focusing on wombats and lyrebirds, which, while susceptible to fox predation, are not endangered species. Recent collaborations with the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action (DEECA) and the Taungurung Traditional Owners have yielded critical data on the presence of Long-footed Potoroos, providing the impetus for pest animal control efforts.
While extensive fox control has been conducted in the broader Alpine National Park, the Mt. Buffalo region had not undergone similar programs. Now, a three-year funding allocation will enable the research of fox populations in Mt. Buffalo, the implementation of robust fox control strategies, and the assessment of their impact on the local fauna, including the potoroos. This comprehensive effort aims to gain a deeper understanding of their distribution within the landscape.
Working with Traditional Owners
Collaborating with Traditional Owners is a standout aspect of Julien's work. The Victorian alps hold immense cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance, serving as a living landscape with deep connections to Taungurung heritage spanning thousands of generations.
Within the Taungurung footprint, the perspective of Traditional Owners, their connection with the land, and their way of thinking all play a crucial and inspiring role. This collaboration encourages joint managers like Julien to reevaluate their methods and approaches in working with Traditional Owners to ensure effective land management.
Climate change impacts
Julien has already observed the impact of climate change on the alpine environment, notably following the 2013 fires at Mt Feathertop and Harrietville, as well as the 2019-20 fires at Mt Buffalo. These events have forever altered the landscape and the regeneration of flora in those areas. The effects of climate change are discernible on an annual basis, with changes in shrub and tree growth patterns in areas previously deemed too cold for their development. Such changes are indicative of the evolving landscape, as evidenced by recent unseasonal conditions during winter. It is a stark reminder that change is inevitable, and indeed, change has already taken place.
Julien firmly believes that collective responsibility is essential in protecting the environment. He holds hope for a future where society reaches a tipping point, recognizing the profound impact it has on the climate, the world, local parks, and the communities in which people reside. His aspiration is for greater community responsibility and consideration in preserving these remarkable places.
Act local, think global
Julien's professional mission has always been to kindle people's love for the outdoors, nature, and the natural world. He firmly believes that only when people develop a deep affection for these places will they actively engage in efforts to protect and conserve them, either by volunteering or supporting measures to safeguard these extraordinary environments.
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