An updated strategy to protect and enhance more than 330 hectares of conservation areas in Hobsons Bay is now open for the community’s feedback.
The Biodiversity Strategy 2024-34 updates the strategy which has been in place since 2017 and was the first long-term strategy to protect the natural environment in Hobsons Bay.
With a combination of biodiverse areas – including remnant native grasslands, five waterways, foreshore areas and internationally significant wetlands – within a highly developed landscape, Hobsons Bay has a unique natural environment for a metropolitan council.
The strategy sets out priorities under four key goals – to protect, restore, engage and collaborate – including:
- preventing local extinction of indigenous flora and fauna and ecosystems
- retaining the remaining intact remnant grasslands
- reducing pest species threats in significant biodiverse areas
- expanding the Habitat Gardens program to encompass targeted areas and establish ecosystem corridors, and
- collaborating with traditional owners to connect culture and biodiversity, and
- empowering them to engage in cultural land management practices.
The strategy is available to be viewed and commented on until Wednesday 11 October at the Participate website.
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Tony Briffa:
“We are so lucky to have such a diverse environment surrounding us here in Hobsons Bay. With that comes the responsibility of making sure these beautiful, unique parts of our city are not only protected, but that they will continue to thrive for generations to come.
“This strategy has already seen significant gains made since it was adopted in 2017. Given that this update covers the next decade, it will provide a great long-term vision for how we can work towards keeping our grasslands, foreshores and wetlands in great condition for us and our local wildlife to enjoy.”
