Futureproofing the Cabbage Tree Palm Project
A community engagement program and plantings to secure the future of Kiama’s iconic Livistona australis
Capacity building - LEP23-014-LLC07-1
The issue
The Cabbage Tree Palm (Livistona australis), known as Dharawal to the First Nations people of the Illawarra, was traditionally valued as a source of food and materials—its leaves and trunks used for weaving and shelter. Today, a lone Cabbage Tree Palm standing tall on Kiama’s rolling green hills is an iconic sight for locals and visitors alike. These palms can live for over a century and reach heights of up to 30 metres. Once thriving along NSW’s east coast rainforest margins, their habitat has been largely cleared. Some remain as isolated paddock trees, but they are struggling to regenerate naturally because of grazing and Kikuyu grass. Private landholders needed to be engaged, educated, and supported to protect them and allow natural regeneration.
The solution
Landcare Illawarra created a program to work with local property owners to preserve and promote their role in preserving Livistona australis. The initiative launched with a well-attended public event featuring First Nations speakers, local historians, and plant experts. The program offered community plantings on private land, including supply of juvenile palms and companion subtropical rainforest species, installation of fencing, and guidance on ongoing maintenance.
The impact
The launch event was oversubscribed and generated strong engagement on social media. Between March and June 2025, we trialled fencing and hosted three community planting events on private properties in the Foxground area. A total of 310 plants—including over 100 Cabbage Tree Palms—were planted by 54 volunteers, contributing 150+ volunteer hours. Over 300 metres of fencing was installed to protect the plantings from grazing animals. Property owners will continue the maintenance of these sites. One community member was so inspired by the project’s clarity and focus, they made a personal donation to support its continuation. Additional funding was received from Endeavour Energy as part of its offset program. These contributions will enable the project to expand into other areas over the next three years.
Learnings
- Projects centred on a single, iconic species generate strong community interest.
- More education is needed around natural regeneration and riparian fencing.
- Fencing is the greatest cost for this sort of project—corporate and community donations were vital.
Key facts
- An opportunity to build on previous Landcare Illawarra subtropical rainforest restoration projects.
- Involves private landholders in planting and protecting Livistona australis.
- Strong community engagement with a public launch with expert speakers and local Indigenous leaders.