The Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater’s Bob Anderson, Monbulk Landcare Group’s Bill Incoll, Macclesfield Landcare’s Irene Pearney, Johns Hill Landcare Group and Friend of Meander Jeff Latter, and honeyeater friend David Howell with Gembrook MP Brad Battin (second from right).
By Mara Pattison-Sowden
COMMUNITY groups and the public are being invited to have their say on a project that would form a new state park to protect Victoria’s endangered flora and fauna.
The Woori Yallock Creek Park Alliance (WYCPA) received Liberal Coalition support for the potential park last year with the Government referring the case to the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC).
VEAC has opened its investigation to the public along with plans to identify the biodiversity and ecological values in the area, identify current and future threats and make recommendations for appropriate management arrangements.
VEAC will consider future management opportunities for approximately 3250 hectares of public land east of the Dandenong Ranges and south of the Yarra Valley.
Gembrook MP Brad Battin said public submissions were welcome to VEAC until 20 February 2012.
“This work will build on the great efforts of conservation already being achieved in the Yellingbo Conservation Reserve Area, providing information on ways we can further protect the area’s natural assets and identifying more options to reduce threats to this vulnerable species,” he said.
Three of Victoria’s state emblems reside in the area, including the floral pink heath, the endangered Leadbeater’s possum and the helmeted honeyeater.
WYCPA members believe linking the habitat areas would allow for better management and eco tourism in the area.
For more information visit www.veac.vic.gov.au or contact Brad Battin’s office on 9796 1987 for a brochure.
