Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy

Our mission is to restore and care for critically endangered lowland subtropical rainforest, focussing on the Big Scrub rainforest of northern New South Wales, Australia. Covering an area of approximately 75,000 hectares between Byron Bay, Ballina and Lismore, the Big Scrub was the largest expanse of lowland subtropical rainforest in Australia, until it was aggressively cleared to 1% of its original size. Despite this devastation, the Big Scrub has the highest proportion of Gondwana-descendant species of any patch of rainforest in Australia, with some lineages dating back more than 180 million years. It is also home to the richest plant biodiversity in NSW. Founded in 1993, we are one of the largest landcare groups in the country with more than 350 members and many supporters. Our focus is promoting, facilitating and undertaking long-term restoration and ongoing care of critically endangered lowland subtropical rainforest. Our four key program areas are our Remnant Care, Rainforest Re-establishment, Science Saving Rainforests and Community Engagement programs. We work with governments, business, private landholders, community organisations and the community to restore our unique lowland subtropical rainforest and it’s magnificent biodiversity.