The sun was shining at Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve on Tuesday as Bayside Mayor, Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes and Deputy Mayor, Cr Andrew Hockley hosted Josh Burns MP, Member for Macnamara (and his on-leash 4-legged friend Larry), at the new wetlands in the southern area of Yalukit Willam Natre Reserve.
Construction of the tranquil and stunning urban wetland is nearing completion, and complimentary features including the lookout, bird hide and stepping stone water crossing are taking shape. With Elster Creek's waterflow restored, specialist horticulturalists area busy planting the approximate 200,000 terrestrial and aquatic plants, and water has started flowing over the rock cascades.
Acting as a flood retarding basin, the wetlands are helping to reduce flood risk, while also naturally filtering pollutants and sediments from stormwater. By integrating sustainable water management features, water quality is improved before its reuse within the reserve, irrigation for the adjacent sports fields, or release into Port Phillip Bay.
When completed, the tranquil and stunning urban wetland will provide critical habitat for wildlife, and new vegetation habitat zones. The wetland islands further support the reserve's biodiversity, providing new habitat and refuge areas for local and migratory wildlife, including aquatic bird species most vulnerable to larger threats.
