Community concerns persist as sanctuary works advance

REPAIRS to Serendip Sanctuary’s much-loved display pond are now under way, as works on the site’s new sensory garden near completion.

The pond was closed more than 12 months ago after significant cracks appeared in the structure. The delay in addressing these issues has been a source of criticism from the local community, many of whom remain concerned about Parks Victoria’s handling of the site’s $11m transformation.

Lara MP Ella George said the rehabilitation of the display pond is progressing well, with major engineering and design works complete. The pond’s bore pump, which provides a water source for the sanctuary’s resident birds, is also under repair.

“In the coming days, the pond will be re-filled with water and will once again be an important environment for native wildlife.”

The sensory garden, she said, has “exceeded” all her expectations.

Both projects are expected to be completed by the end of spring.

 

 

“The upgrades at Serendip prioritise ecological sustainability and accessibility for all visitors. In the coming months, the visitor experience at Serendip Sanctuary will improve significantly,” Ms George said

“The sensory garden provides a calm environment for people to enjoy nature, with plenty of seats and places to rest and reflect along the walk. I think local residents will fall in love with this beautiful new addition to Serendip.”

Parks Victoria district manager David Petty said the organisation was excited to be close to welcoming visitors to the sensory garden, which encourages connection with nature through sight, smell, touch, taste and sound.

“The garden also showcases artwork from Wadawurrung artist Jenna Oldaker, and a variety of plants indigenous to the open grassy woodlands of the volcanic Western Plains.”

David Greenwood, a Lara local and member of the project’s stakeholder reference group, welcomed the site’s progress but remains concerned about what he describes as “a lack of clear answers” around the rehabilitation’s funding and rollout.

“It’s a bit like smoke and mirrors,” he said of Serendip’s recent improvements.

 

 

Mr Greenwood presented a 1,000-signature petition to the City of Greater Geelong in May requesting the council to support to demand for more information from Parks Victoria and the state government on the management of upgrades at the sanctuary.

While the council rejected calls to raise a formal motion, mayor Stretch Kontelj wrote a letter to Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos in July requesting a detailed financial breakdown of spending on the project to date, a timeline for infrastructure repairs, a plan to re-engage with the local community and a briefing on the project’s progress.

“Serendip Sanctuary is a much-loved local asset, and residents are eager to understand how the site is being managed and what its future holds,” the letter stated.

“It is vital that the residents feel heard and assured that the redevelopment will enhance, rather than diminish, this cherished place.”

It is understood the city has not received a response from the minister, but chief executive Ali Waste met with Parks Victoria CEO Lee Miezis earlier this month, with Serendip “a high priority item on the agenda”.