Greater Shepparton City Council has endorsed the Boulevard Bush Reserve Environmental Management Plan 2026, providing a clear framework to guide the protection, enhancement and sustainable management of one of the municipality's most significant natural areas.
The updated plan will help protect the Reserve's important environmental values while supporting recreation, environmental education and community connection with nature for years to come. The 13.62 hectare reserve in North Shepparton contains high-quality remnant River Red Gum floodplain vegetation and provides habitat for a diverse range of native plants and animals.
Originally purchased by Council in 2010 due to its high conservation value, Boulevard Bush Reserve is regarded as one of the best examples of what bushland along the Goulburn River may have looked like before European settlement. The Reserve is home to a diverse range of native plants, including Grey Parrot-pea, River Buttercup and Kangaroo Grass, while its River Red Gums provide important habitat for wildlife including echidnas, platypus and numerous woodland bird species.
Mayor, Councillor Geoff Akers said the Boulevard Bush Reserve was a treasured environmental asset that played an important role in preserving biodiversity and providing opportunities for residents to enjoy and connect with the natural environment.
"The Boulevard Bush Reserve is one of Greater Shepparton's most significant natural areas and is highly valued by the community for its environmental, recreational and educational benefits," he said.
"This updated management plan provides a clear vision for the future of the Reserve, ensuring its unique environmental and cultural values are protected while continuing to provide opportunities for recreation and community enjoyment.
"Importantly, the plan has been shaped by community feedback, demonstrating the strong connection local residents have with this special place and their desire to see it protected and enhanced for future generations."
The review represents the third update of the Environmental Management Plan and was developed with guidance from the RiverConnect Land Management Working Group, which includes representatives from Parks Victoria, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, Victorian Fisheries Authority, Shepparton Mooroopna Urban Landcare Group, RiverConnect and Council.
Community consultation undertaken between July and August 2026 attracted 67 submissions, demonstrating strong support for the Reserve and the overall direction of the plan. Protecting wildlife and habitat emerged as the community's highest priority, while many respondents also expressed interest in participating in stewardship activities such as community planting and weeding days.
Feedback received through the consultation process has informed a range of refinements to the final plan, including actions to investigate improvements to path accessibility, address unauthorised motorbike activity, strengthen community engagement and education initiatives, and improve connectivity with surrounding areas.
RiverConnect Community Advisory Committee Councillor Representative, Cr Steven Threlfall, thanked the community for providing their feedback.
"Community feedback has played an important role in shaping the final plan, helping Council better understand what people love about the Boulevard Bush Reserve and where they would like to see improvements in the future," he said.
"The final plan strikes a balance between conservation outcomes and enhancing visitor experiences, informed directly by the views of our community."
The adopted Boulevard Bush Reserve Environmental Management Plan 2026 will guide future management, investment and on-ground works within the Reserve, helping to protect biodiversity, enhance habitat values and support ongoing community stewardship.
