The Andrews Labor Government today released a plan for the state's first landscape conservation area − an area in Melbourne's east that will preserve the biodiversity of almost 3,000 hectares of land and water frontages.
The Liwik Barring Landscape Conservation Area will be made up of public land reserves and water frontages, extending from Healesville in the north to Millgrove and Hoddles Creek in the east, Emerald and Cockatoo in the south, and the southern Dandenong Ranges in the south-west.
Traditional Owners, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation recently named the conservation area 'Liwik Barring' meaning Ancestors' Trail. The name reflects the rich First Peoples history of the area and the network of rivers and streams that connect and link the area.
The area is home to several threatened species of plants and animals including Victoria's animal emblems − the Helmeted Honeyeater and lowland Leadbeater's Possum.
The creation of habitat links between large blocks of land will enable species to move through the landscape. The conservation area will also provide improved water quality and open new areas up for recreation.
The plan will guide the strategic development, management and planning for the area for the next 10 years and addresses key issues such as bushfire risk and conservation of critically endangered species. Additional access and recreation opportunities will be provided, with access to some areas limited due to high conservation values.
The Government provided $3.2 million to establish the conservation area and a further $10 million for managing the area for the next four years.
The conservation area will be created in phases over several years and once complete will be managed by Parks Victoria.
The landscape conservation area is the first of its kind to be established under the National Parks Act 1975.
For more information, visit environment.vic.gov.au/liwik-barring-conservation-area.
As stated by Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D'Ambrosio
"Today is an exciting day - a day we deliver our 10-year plan for this beautiful conservation area, which is a crucial step in protecting the vital biodiversity of our forests."
"This is a beautiful and diverse environment rich in history and now, with the completion of the management plan, the Liwik Barring Landscape Conservation Area will be preserved for generations of Victorians to enjoy."
As stated by Member for Monbulk James Merlino
"This conservation area will become a stronghold for native biodiversity, attracting both locals and nature minded tourists to the area from across the state."
