Fowles Wine founder Matt Fowles. Image courtesy Fowles Wine

Victorian winery Fowles Wine has shared the “promising” first-year findings of its micro-bat study, in partnership with the University of New England (UNE), that it says could save an estimated $50 million per annum for Australia’s wine industry.

The study has been investigating whether micro-bats are consuming pests in the Fowles vineyard at the same rate as they are in cotton farms. Sound recording devices were installed in the Strathbogie Ranges vineyard in October 2023 to better understand the different bat species living there, their feeding habits and their 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,” explained Fowles Wine owner Matt Fowles.

“The first year’s results are fascinating, with a total of 172 fauna species recorded on our vineyard, including 12 species of insect-eating bats – among these are two species that are classified as critically endangered, one that is endangered, and four others that are vulnerable under Victoria’s FFG (Flora and Fauna Guarantee) Act.”

Fowles noted that vulnerable birdlife such as 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.

“An evaluation at the 12-month mark of the 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.”

The ‘Bats and Wine’ study has also produced a number of recommended actions for Fowles Wine to enhance habitat connectivity and support threatened species and conservation.

These recommendations include:

• 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
• maintain long grasses between grapevines to attract beneficial insects and insectivorous birds
• install bat boxes near vineyards and water sources to support insect-eating bat populations
• engage with conservation organisations to implement best practices

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