The City of Greater Geelong has released a draft 20-year master
plan for the Sparrovale Wetlands, a new world class 500-hectare nature reserve
being created near Armstrong Creek.
The
mix of natural and constructed wetlands will be home to a vast range of plant
and animal life, protecting and increasing the region’s biodiversity and
serving as a major drawcard for locals and visitors.
Under
the draft plan, the reserve will also recognise and celebrate the local
Wadawurrung heritage, as home to 39 registered Aboriginal archaeological sites
within a 5km radius.
It will feature around 140 hectares of public open space, and provide a crucial
drainage solution for the growing population in Armstrong Creek.
The draft
master plan divides the development of the wetlands into three phases:
- Phase one (2019-2022): completion of major drainage
infrastructure works, pest plant and animal control, protection of threatened
species and preparation of a revegetation plan; - Phase two (2022-2030): establishment of public parkland and
facilities, plus continued pest plant and animal control and revegetation; and - Phase three (2030-2040): connection of the Barwon River Trail to
Geelong, upgrades of walking trails, completion of revegetation, and promotion
of Sparrovale Wetlands as a key tourism, environmental, cultural and
recreational site for the region.
Have your say on the draft Sparrovale Wetlands master plan here.
The Sparrovale Wetlands adjoin the
Barwon River and the internationally significant wetlands of Lake
Connewarre and Hospital Swamps.
The
area provides habitat for several bird species, including the critically
endangered Orange-bellied parrot.
The draft master plan has been developed with input from Parks Victoria, the
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, the Corangamite Catchment
Management Authority, the Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation,
Geelong Field and Game, the Geelong Field Naturalists Club and the Barwon Heads
Association.
Mayor Stephanie Asher:
The concept for
the Sparrovale Wetlands came from the need for a sustainable drainage solution
for Armstrong Creek. From there, it has developed through some clever and
creative thinking into a project that will create huge environmental, tourism
and recreation benefits for our region.As a 20-year plan it will take some time for the ultimate vision for the site
to be realised, but the end result will be special.We’re interested in the community’s feedback on the draft plan, so please visit
the website and have your say.
