The success of this project was due to the full support and long-term commitment from all levels of NPWS to a bold vision for an ambitious conservation program. Eradication of mice and rabbits and control of invasive weeds on a relatively large remote island could not be achieved through half measures and was critical to protect this internationally significant site for breeding seabirds. However, a project at this scale had not previously been undertaken in NSW. Organisational commitment ensured the project was prioritised for long term (10 year +) funding and that staff with the right skills and experience were assigned to this project. Partnerships with universities and community organisations were supported and valued. It also meant that NPWS was willing to take risks and try innovative approaches e.g. using fire to control kikuyu grass.
The long term scientific studies on the island established the significance of the biodiversity values, the impact of the pests and weeds and demonstrated that without this work, all seabird nesting habitat would be overgrown within 12 years. Managers recognised the need to act urgently and at scale to protect these seabird populations. The project was a key feature of the Montague Island Plan of Management (Amendments to the Plan of Management 2003) and the community indicated their strong support for this approach during consultation.
Support from the whole organisation was required to undertake a project of this scale and complexity. This included support not just from the local area office, but also specialist staff from head office and support of the NPWS executive. This was critical to ensure resources required to sustain and complete the project were prioritised. If populations of mice had only been reduced not eliminated, the populations would have quickly rebounded to original levels wasting all previous efforts and funds. Ongoing work such as weed control is now part of day to day island management and critical to maintain the success.
It is important to recognise the value of and level of commitment and resources required to maintain good communication with stakeholders and community through a public information campaign at all stages of the project.
The ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the project meant that key stakeholders, managers and NPWS executive were receiving regular updates about progress and conservation successes to keep them engaged and ensure their ongoing support.