The community is invited to review a draft master plan guiding future use and ongoing management of Roberts Court Bushland Reserve in Drouin.
The draft master plan aims to deliver a long-term, cohesive vision for the reserve which reflects the ecological importance of the site and provides structure for future use, access and long-term management.
Some of the proposed improvements within the draft master plan include:
- Providing path links and a perimeter trail
- Promoting Aboriginal culture and stories as part of an interpretative trail
- Securing the reserve boundaries and entrances
- Providing a small carparking area at the Roberts Court end of the site
Weed control, preserving endangered flora and fauna and restoring vegetation communities will be an ongoing priority within the draft master plan.
The 10.53-hectare property was purchased by Council in 2022 with strong support from the community and Friends of Drouin's Trees after it was identified as a high value environmental property. The reserve features significant biodiversity values and potential for future nature-based recreational activities and environmental enhancement. It is home to a diverse natural habitat for local wildlife, with species such as burrowing crayfish, kookaburras, as well as being home to a population of the nationally threatened Strzelecki Gum.
Following successful acquisition of the land, Council sought community feedback via a short survey in August last year to capture key themes, community expectations and local priorities for the reserve. Feedback was considered and incorporated into the draft master plan, which is now available for review via Council's online engagement platform Baw Baw Connect for a four-week period until 5.00pm Thursday 20 August.
Baw Baw Shire Mayor Councillor Kate Wilson is encouraging the community to review the draft master plan and have their say.
"We know how important greenspaces are to our community. As always, our goal was to develop a plan alongside the community that is grounded in local knowledge and aspirations for this fantastic community asset", said the Mayor.
"The proposed plan aims to strike a balance between creating a place where people can connect with nature, while safeguarding wildlife, ecological characteristics and cultural heritage.
"This next phase of engagement is your opportunity to have a say on the proposal. We welcome feedback from residents, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike."
Following this second consultation period, a final master plan will be presented to Council for endorsement towards the end of the year.
