6th August, 2025.
Mel Johnstone and Mitch Peronis are the hard working Wollondilly Wombat Watch team. It is well known development, loss of habitat, introduced predators and disease such as mange are ongoing threats to the wombat population of Wollondilly. However, thanks to the advocacy and effort of Mel and Mitch, the wombats' chances of surviving and thriving are improving. Mel and Mitch are both members of Wires Wollondilly as well as running the specialised Wollondilly Wombat Watch, and are committed to raising awareness about the issues faced by wombats through education, as well as being there to deal with the consequences of road strikes and mange, a devastating infectious disease. Thanks to their efforts additional wildlife signs have been installed in locations over the shire where wombats are most at risk, to warn drivers of the presence of wombats on and nearby the roads. Their efforts were recognised earlier this year with the awarding of Environmental Citizens of the Year Award at the 2025 Wollondilly Shire Council Australia Day celebration. Wollondilly is a better place because of Mel and Mitch and I urge everyone to support them.
