The first 12 months’ results of the ‘Bats and Wine’ program have now been released.
The study has been investigating whether insect-eating micro-bats are consuming pests in the Fowles vineyard at the same rate as in cotton farms.
UNE installed sound recording devices in Fowles’ Strathbogie Ranges vineyard in October 2023 to increase understanding of the different bat species living there, and their feeding habits and role in maintaining biodiversity in the local ecosystem.
“The big picture aim of the ‘Bats and Wine’ program is to look at ways we can farm in nature’s image, that is, to work with the power of nature to create a win-win for both winemaking and the environment,” owner of Fowles Wine Matt Fowles said.
The results show that there are a total of 172 fauna species recorded on the vineyard including 12 species of insect-eating bats; two of which are classified as critically endangered, one endangered and four vulnerable under Victoria’s Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act.
Other vulnerable birdlife, including the Brown Treecreeper and Australian Pipit, were also recorded.
“During the same period (as the study), we’ve also embarked on an initiative with Euroa Arboretum to implement insectariums and seed orchards to ensure regenerative and self-sufficient ecosystems,” Mr Fowles said.
“An evaluation of the 12-month mark of concurrent projects has shown that by enhancing habitat connectivity and supporting native fauna, we can create a sustainable vineyard environment while also boosting natural pest control and preserving the biodiversity of the local region.
“We’re really excited about the potential flow-on effects of this research for Australia’s viticulture and farming sectors in controlling agricultural pests and, in turn, providing a huge economic benefit ‒ saving the country’s producers $50 million a year.”
‘Bats and Wine’ study outcomes
Recommended actions for Fowles Wine
Revegetate and maintain buffer zones around nearby Discovery Creek and Burnt Creek tributaries;
Link existing vegetation to high-value roadside habitat with large hollow-bearing trees;
Retain isolated paddock trees which serve as vital roosts and foraging sites for bats and birds;
Install bat boxes near vineyards and water sources to support insect-eating bat populations;
And, engage with conservation organisations to implement best practices.
Mr Fowles has been named a 2025 finalist for the ‘Horticulture Farmer of the Year’ category of the Weekly Times Coles Farmer of the Year Awards for his efforts in biodiversity and innovation.
“Our enduring philosophy at Fowles is to harness the land’s ecology to create more sustainable and resilient farming systems, producing quality in abundance - and, we’re definitely ‘walking the talk’ with our research and practices,” Mr Fowles said.
“It’s a huge honour to be recognised in such a coveted awards program which provides us with a great platform to share what we’re learning, and what other producers can do too, to improve practices, prevent crop and financial loss, and care for the environment.”
Fowles Wine has also recently collected a string of top awards, including five gold medals for their 2021 Ladies who Shoot their Lunch Shiraz.
For more information, go to fowleswine.com
