Council buys remnant bush block for reserve

A bush reserve valued at $350,000 will be purchased by Baw Baw Shire to provide a unique environmental asset in Drouin.
The 10.5 hectare reserve in Roberts Crt was identified as a "high value environmental property" to be used as a bushland reserve.
The reserve is located on industrial zoned land and includes a waterway running through the property.
In a report to council, officers said given the high biodiversity values of the site, it should be developed as a nature reserve "with potential for walkways and further enhancements."
The report said council attempted to purchase the property several years ago but the sale fell through.
Council will negotiate a price for the land with Berwick Views Estate that will not exceed the current certified value of $350,000.
The purchase was supported by Friends of Drouin Trees, who made a budget submission to council two years ago requesting council set aside funds to purchase the reserve.
FODT member Henry Corcoran said the reserve's biodiversity value was very high with both flora and fauna, of which some species were vulnerable and threatened.
"As a permanent public reserve, it will become one of the showcase areas of Baw Baw Shire.
"With careful management it will improve and educate people's connection to nature and understanding of how nature benefits them.
Mr Corcoran said the reserve had potential to interconnect with other Drouin walking trails.
"The Roberts Crt bush block has undeniable ecological and environmental values...this is one of the best good news stories for the Baw Baw Shire," Mr Corcoran said.
Cr Annemarie McCabe said the reserve was a highly valued environmental property.
"It's not often we get an opportunity to create a tranquil bush setting in suburbia," she said.
Cr McCabe said the reserve would provide potential for walkways and other enhancements, giving the site significant environmental and recreational value.
Cr Tricia Jones said she was pleased to see the purchase finally come to council.
Cr Danny Goss said Roberts Crt acquisition was identified in the Development Contributions Plan, with DCP funds already set aside for the purchase.
"This is a unique parcel of land in a big town," he said. "I can't wait for us to spend money on this...the species of flora and fauna here will be something else."
Cr Goss said it was a wonderful opportunity to create a bush reserve that people will enjoy in 50 and 80 years time.