The Gondwana Project Inc.

The Gondwana Project Inc. is an Australian charity focused on the conservation of Tasmania’s unique and ancient alpine and rainforest flora. It addresses the urgent threats posed by climate change, fire, drought, and habitat loss to these fire-sensitive ecosystems that have existed since the supercontinent Gondwana. Through research, education, and active conservation, the organisation works to protect and restore these vulnerable species and their habitats, ensuring their survival for future generations.

Backyard Biobanking: Creating Urban Climate Refuges

The charity’s flagship initiative, Backyard Biobanking, is a pioneering conservation project that establishes a vast network of urban refuges for Tasmania’s endangered alpine and rainforest plants. This project focuses on collecting, growing, and safeguarding fire-sensitive native species in private and community gardens, creating a living seed bank that can be mobilised in times of environmental crisis. It combines community engagement, scientific research, and direct conservation to build resilience against climate threats.

Mission and Vision

The Gondwana Project Inc. aims to prevent the loss of Tasmania’s ancient alpine and rainforest flora through active custodianship. It envisions a future where these unique ecosystems thrive despite climate change, supported by informed communities and effective conservation strategies.

Main Objectives

• Protect and conserve fire-sensitive and climate-threatened native species
• Conduct research on population genetics and species distribution
• Educate the public about the importance of Tasmania’s Gondwanan flora
• Create urban climate refuges through the Backyard Biobanking campaign
• Improve fire management and conservation practices based on scientific data

Benefiting Groups

• Children and youth engaged in environmental education and conservation activities
• Local communities in Tasmania who benefit from preserved natural heritage
• Researchers and conservationists working to understand and protect native flora
• The broader Australian public interested in biodiversity and climate resilience

Types of Services or Activities

• Scientific research on alpine and rainforest species genetics and ecology
• Community education programs and workshops
• Direct conservation efforts including seed collection and propagation
• Mapping and monitoring of species distribution to inform conservation
• Engagement with landowners to establish and maintain Backyard Biobanking sites