Ground Parrot Country

The Ground Parrot Country project, led by Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC), offers a compelling example of how a biocultural vision can shape long-term ecological and cultural restoration.

The project centres on returning habitat for the critically endangered Ground Parrot to the heathlands of the Otway Plain – and trialling different management techniques, such as mulching, rolling and burning, to achieve this outcome.

The ‘Vision for Ground Parrot Country’ (2025) was authored exclusively by EMAC, as an articulation of their cultural obligations to care for this landscape. While deeply rooted in story and relationship, it also provides clear ecological guidance.

“We are on Ground Parrot Country in 2045. We can see over the tops of the plants (most plants are under 1m tall) but a few taller trees and shrubs are scattered around. There are patches of wet heath and patches of dry heath...

“There is a good mix of plants that make seeds the Ground Parrot eats like Button Grass and Grass Trees. The plants are thick enough for Ground Parrots to hide from foxes and other predators.

“All the people who work to care for Ground Parrot Country are connected to each other (no matter what uniform they wear)... Everyone is taking a biocultural approach that recognises the interconnection between ecosystems and human cultures.”

The vision sets explicit targets for vegetation structure, floristic diversity, predator management, and hygiene protocols (e.g. keeping Phytophthora out of Country).

It shapes the management objectives, defines the desired social context, and prompts development of practical management strategies—including how to use tools like fire to achieve those outcomes over time.