Jacksons Creek revegetation project a boost for habitat

THE outlook for native ­animals in and around Jacksons Creek in Sunbury looks on the up thanks to a new restoration project.

The platypus should benefit from the Jacksons Creek revegetation project. Picture: Peter Clark

THE  outlook for native ­animals living in and around Jacksons Creek in Sunbury looks on the up with the newly launched $300,000 Jacksons Creek ­Restoration Project set to focus on improving 10.5km of riverside.

The project, led by the Port Philip and Westernport Catch­ment Management Authority, is being partnered by Hume Council, Sunbury Residents Association, Villawood Properties, Melbourne Water and Wurundjeri Council.

Over three years works will start on both private and public land along the creek which winds its way through Sunbury.

Several Landcare groups in Sunbury and students from Salesian College are set to take part in tree plantings and pest species removal.

Native animal species that could benefit from vegetation improvements include the growling grass frog, swift parrot and platypus.

PPWCMA chief executive David Buntine said the project would be a great example of effective environmental work alongside urban areas.

“The project will improve recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, and also provide community education about the natural values of the creek,” Mr Buntine said.

“By linking and strengthening existing pockets of remnant vegetation, this project will deliver improved water quality and habitat for significant species.”

Jacksons Creek EcoNetwork president Christina Cheers said the funding was the most significant environment commitment she could recall during her time working as a Landcare volunteer.

“All of the area has been farmland and a lot of native vegetation has gone as a result and been replaced by weeds, while rabbits have also had a huge impact,” she said.

Ms Cheers said the effort to create healthy habitat for the platypus would be “something everybody in the community could identify with”.