New ponds set to make a splash

The community will get to enjoy new and exciting open space in Bayside by October 2021 when works on the Chain of Ponds at Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve are set to be complete.

As part of the extensive wetlands, the Ponds will include a main stream, ephemeral soaks and billabongs and extend from the northeast corner down to the centre of the reserve. The community will be able to enjoy the Ponds via walkways and viewing points.

Works commenced in July 2020 and involved the excavation of the ponds and the shaping of the general surrounding landscape.

The final works will involve further detailed landscaping and construction of the new pathways and planting. You will notice the sites landform alter as we continue to shape the Reserve.  

Pictured: footage of works underway at Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve

 A small number of weed species or “exotic” (non-indigenous) trees will be removed along the Reserve’s eastern boundary and approximately 30,000 new plants and trees will be planted as the Reserve matures.

During construction, access to sections of the Reserve will be prohibited.

The Chain of Ponds is part of a ten year masterplan of works to realise the vision for the reserve.

Key elements proposed for the Reserve include expanded wetlands, grassy woodland and visitor facilities such as indigenous gathering places and a gateway feature building.

Council is calling for support from the Australian and Victorian governments to help shape this incredible natural refuge on Melbourne’s doorstep which will also have significant benefits for water quality in Port Phillip Bay.

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