By Jodie Symonds
A TEAM of mules and horses has assisted VicForests in a replanting operation in Marysville’s Acheron Forest.
To accompany VicForests’ contractors, Timberwolf, the equine team was engaged to help carry the thousands of seedlings required to regrow an area of forest that had recently been harvested for timber.
With the help of mules and horses, VicForests were able to access hard-to-reach areas that had previously been inaccessible, due to heavy rainfall and steep terrain.
VicForests general manager, Planning, Nathan Trushell, said the replanting operation had been a great success, thanks to the help of the pack mules.
“We generally regrow more than 1000 hectares every year in the North East of Victoria,” Mr Trushell said.
“Some of these areas can be very challenging to access, particularly following a wetter-than-normal winter.”
The equine team was accompanied by their owners, JoAnne and John Kasch, to help with the operation.
Mrs Kasch said pack mules and horses could access certain areas that heavy machinery and equipment couldn’t always reach.
“They are not only trained and skilled in carrying heavy loads and navigating difficult terrain, but they are also a much more environmentally friendly option,” Mrs Kasch said.
The service provided by the Kasches was in return for a nominal donation toward their ongoing project with the Bicentennial National Trail, to raise money to install various facilities for tracking enthusiasts.
“We have managed to raise $12,000 so far and have been able to install toilets, horse yards and an information sign in the near future,” Mrs Kasch said.
“Pack saddling is fast becoming a popular way to holiday, work and relax.”
For more information, visit www.vicforests.com.au/regrowing-our-forests
