Hello! We are the Friends of the Ralph Illidge Nature Sanctuary - a group that has been looking after a magical section of south-west Victoria in Australia for the past 50 years.

Bequeathed by the Estate of Ralph Illidge in 1975, Ralph Illidge Sanctuary Reserve is one of the earliest properties acquired by Trust for Nature. Many different animals and plants live in the reserve with a number of threatened species having been recorded.

The reserve is home to a population of Long Nosed Potoroos (Potorous tridactylus). Listed as Endangered in Victoria, this predominately nocturnal species lives in dense undergrowth in sclerophyll (eucalypt) forests. Another notable species on site is the endangered Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua). To support breeding the Friends of Ralph Illidge Sanctuary together with Trust for Nature have installed several nesting boxes around the reserve. The rare and unusual Dwarf Silver Wattle (Acacia nanodealbata) occurs on the reserve, as well as rainforest species which are not seen in the surrounding cleared farmland, making this a sanctuary for enjoying the ambiance of the forest.

Our volunteers work hard, but we still need funding to help keep out pests such as rabbits, deer, cats, foxes and invasive plant species like blackberry. There is also the upkeep of the building, including plumbing, electricity, safety equipment, equipment to clear paths and repair fences and bridges. There are also costs such as insurance and so many improvements we would like make to the property to protect it and its inhabitants for the future.

Unfortunately we just do not have enough and would be so grateful for any support.

We also welcome you to visit our beautiful sanctuary and explore this place we love so much.

The Ralph Illidge Sanctuary Reserve is 92 ha and is located at 44 Halfords Road, Naringal East, Victoria.