Rye is set to get a brand new bushland reserve after Mornington Peninsula Shire purchased almost four hectares of valuable Moonah woodland for the community.
The land, at 50 Flinders Street, is of high conservation value and home to more than 50 indigenous plant species and numerous species of bird.
The Shire purchased the land late last year from the Department of Education and will soon begin consulting with the community on a name for the new reserve.
Mornington Peninsula Mayor Councillor Sam Hearn said the new reserve was a welcome addition to the public open space on the Peninsula.
“I’m delighted that we were able to secure this parcel of land for the community. It’s precious natural habitat that will now be preserved for everyone to enjoy.”
Nepean Ward Councillor Hugh Fraser praised the Nepean Conservation Group for their work in advocating for the reserve.
“This is a terrific example of a community group working in close partnership with the Shire to achieve a hugely beneficial outcome for residents.”
He said the group had since been successful in securing $20,000 from the Shire community budget to develop a community engagement plan for the reserve.
Nepean Ward Councillor Bryan Payne said Rye residents had a crucial role to play in the future of the reserve.
“We need volunteers to form a Friends group to help look after the reserve and be actively involved in conserving this important area of biodiversity,” he said.
An information session and working bee will be held at Milton Street Reserve (45 Milton Street Rye) on Saturday 29 February, from 9am to 11am. Everyone in the community is welcome.
Photo caption (L – R): Mayor Hearn, Cr Fraser and Cr Payne with Nepean Conservation Group members Dennis Toth, Inez Dussuyer and Rhonda Day at the Moonah Woodlands.
