When The Cape land was purchased, it was a cleared former cattle station. Today, it has been transformed into a model of sustainable living, featuring homes with a minimum 7.5-star energy rating and a community committed to preserving and enhancing the natural environment. With over 50% of the estate dedicated to open space, The Cape design integrates housing with our natural surroundings, promoting connection to nature and high-quality living standards. 

Integrating Nature and Sustainability 

 A key feature of The Cape’s design is the creation of wetlands, creek lines, and ponds, which are essential for managing, storing, and treating runoff water within the estate. Brendan Condon, The Cape founder, explains: “At The Cape, we have worked hard to integrate habitat restoration and space for nature into our design, so that wildlife can flourish alongside our residents. There are many benefits to both our residents and the natural world..” 

Innovative Water Management 

Runoff from driveways, roads, and footpaths is directed into planted streetscape swales, where it is reabsorbed by landscape and used to water trees and plantings. In larger rain events, water flows through a network of pits and underground pipes before entering our wetlands. These wetlands are planted with specific species that help purify the water as it moves through the system, ensuring that by the time it reaches the ocean, water has been filtered by natural vegetation. 

Enhancing Biodiversity 

The Cape’s nature friendly landscape design places a strong emphasis on supporting biodiversity. Wetland plant species not only purify water but also create vital habitats for a wide range of fauna, from small freshwater invertebrates to large mammals. The planting of indigenous shrubs and trees around water bodies provides additional habitat and food sources for local wildlife. If you take a walk around the Cape you will see the beautiful wetlands and restored creeklines, and be serenaded by frog chorus on your journey. 

Monitoring Progress 

In 2020, one of our residents, David Hartney, established ten photo points within the wetlands and creek line to document plant growth and ecosystem development. Yearly comparison photos taken from these points help track the progress of this thriving habitat. The central creek line and wetlands, captured in an aerial photo by drone in January 2022, illustrate the successful integration of these natural features into the community. 

Wildlife Flourishes 

Since August 2019, fauna observations have revealed a significant increase in biodiversity at The Cape. What was once degraded pastureland now supports a diverse array of species. To date, 136 species of birds have been recorded, with 75 observed within the wetlands and creek ecosystem. This includes 43 land species, 5 coastal species, 21 freshwater species, and 6 introduced species. Five of the bird species using the wetlands are listed as vulnerable species. 

Notably, wetland specialist birds such as the Lewin’s Rail, Latham’s Snipe, Spotless Crake, Australian Spotted Crake, and Buff-banded Rail have become regular visitors. Additionally, reed specialists like the Little Grassbird and Australian Reed Warbler have made The Cape their seasonal home. David Hartney, a local resident and naturalist, shares, “We have a unique site here, where we are seeing numbers of vulnerable species such as the Latham’s Snipe steadily growing. Observing the increasing numbers of birds and wildlife, especially vulnerable species, is truly rewarding. It’s a testament to the careful planning and commitment to creating a sustainable environment where both people and nature can thrive.” 

The Central Creek Line 

Constructed in mid-2020, the central creek line follows a natural drainage path that connects an existing farm dam (now the north pond) with the central wetlands. The addition of tree stags along the creek line provides perching points for predatory birds like the Grey Butcherbird, Black-shouldered Kite, and Peregrine Falcon, which prey on rodents, reptiles, and other small creatures in the area. 

Diverse Fauna 

The wetlands and creek line also support a variety of other fauna, including Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Echidnas, Wombats, Bush Rats, Swamp Rats, Water Rats (Rakali), eight species of frogs, Water Skinks, Lowland Copperheads, and Eastern Snake-necked Turtles. These water bodies offer excellent habitats for countless freshwater and terrestrial invertebrates, contributing to a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. “We utilize the wildlife data captured yearly to inform our landscaping and planting strategies. By understanding which species are thriving and which need more support, we can create and enhance new areas of the estate to encourage greater biodiversity,” adds Brendan. 

A Sustainable Future 

The Cape’s transformation from farmland to a thriving sustainable community underscores the importance of integrating development with nature. By prioritizing sustainable practices and enhancing natural habitats, The Cape provides a blueprint for eco-friendly living that benefits both residents and the environment. “We are incredibly grateful to David Hartney for his interest and observations of nature and wildlife at The Cape. Thanks to David, we have a deeper understanding of our coastal ecology and how to work with it,” says Brendan. 

David creates a regular newsletter with informative updates on The Cape’s wildlife. You can sign up for his Cape Chatter newsletter. 

Interested in learning more about the vulnerable Latham’s Snipe visiting The Cape, check out this article.

For more information about living at The Cape and its commitment to sustainability, contact The Cape sales team at (03 7022 9790 or info@liveatthecape.com.au to discuss lot availability in the Final Stage. Join a community where high-quality sustainable living and a connection to nature are at the heart of everyday life.