Bayside is seeking a tripartite approach to this regionally significant project – with all levels of government working together.
We are seeking $6 million from the Victorian Government for the continued transformation of the reserve and expansion of the wetlands.
Council is investing $9 million in the implementation of the $24 million masterplan, with $6 million committed to date from the Australian Government. We are also anticipating additional funding from the Australian Government pledged in the May 2022 federal election.
We are also calling for the Victorian Government to expedite funding for the Elwood Diversion Drain Augmentation project which will complement the reserve wetlands and reduce flood risk in North Brighton and Elwood.
Our advocacy leading into the 2022 Victorian election is focused on priorities that support the aspirations of the Bayside 2050 Community Vision and actions in the Council Plan 2021-2025.
2022 Victorian election priority
The transformation of the former golf course is a once in a lifetime opportunity to create an extraordinary, climate resilient, natural space in an urban setting.
Stage one of Council’s masterplan to realise the vision for the reserve as an oasis for both people and nature – the Chain of Ponds, is now complete. The ponds provide a range of habitat to dramatically boost biodiversity and support a range of native and endangered flora and fauna.
1,197ML of stormwater flows through the reserve annually from the 3,200ha Elster Creek Catchment. The wetland elements of the masterplan will complement Melbourne Water’s Elwood Diversion Drain Augmentation to address stormwater management and reduce flood risk within the Cities of Bayside and Port Phillip.
The Elwood Diversion Drain Augmentation project will include the construction of approximately 660m of new underground drain from Elsternwick Park South to the Bay. The project will also include a new drain inlet in the southern corner of Elsternwick Park, a new drain outlet on Elwood Beach and maintenance pits.
Community benefits
The creation of new and expanded wetlands at the reserve has many significant community benefits, with the potential to mitigate a range of climate change impacts.
The wetlands will lead to improved water quality in Port Phillip Bay by removing nitrogen and other pollutants from stormwater flowing through the reserve. This will benefit swimmers, boaters, fishers and recreational users of the bay and foreshore.
The wetlands will contribute to flood management, complementing the significant upgrade of the Elwood Diversion Drain. The combined initiatives will reduce flood risk for nearly 2,000 local property owners.
Increased biodiversity in the reserve through extensive planting, including aquatic plants in the wetlands, will create habitat for wildlife and achieve urban cooling benefits.
The reserve will also provide facilities for significant passive recreation and community education activities. These include a focus on environmental, First Nations cultural and sustainability education.
