Celebrating our own 'living fossil' - the Wollemi Pine

It was only 24 years ago this year that NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service Officer David Noble discovered the Wollemi Pine. Before this extraordinary discovery, the last fossil record of this line of pine dated back two million years.
 
Since its discovery, the research conducted by our experts has been critical in furthering our knowledge, understanding and conservation of the Wollemi Pine.
 

It may have outlasted the dinosaur but it needs protection now 

While the Wollemi Pine has managed to outlive so many thousands of species, it remains highly endangered. The plant is only found in very specific locations and could easily be wiped out by a single disease pathogen, natural disaster or other destruction. This is why the continued work of our scientists is so vital.
 

Translocation is key

Our Principal Research Scientist Dr Cathy Offord is conducting critical research. What she and her team have confirmed is that our best bet in conserving is through translocation of more plants to the wild.
 
The two contributing factors to potential plant extinction are low population size and small geographic range. By increasing both the number of plants, as well as where they grow, the potential risks are significantly reduced.
 

Contribute to their conservation – grow your own piece of history

Another program championed by our experts was the decision to encourage the sale of the pine to the general public. You can contribute to its conservation by enjoying your own ‘dinosaur tree’ at home.