Wandana Gully reaches final stages of project

MORE than 52,000 trees, grasses and shrubs will be planted in Wandana Gully to improve the drainage reserve in Highton and make it an open space that the whole community can enjoy.

Last week, the City of Greater Geelong and teams from Victorian earthwork companies Habitat Creations and Entracon begun planting 86 trees including eucalypts and acacia, 80 shrubs such as bottlebrushes, and a range of ground covers including tussock grass, inland pigface, saltbush, and broadleaf hopbush as the operation approaches its final stages.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the project would help protect and enhance the local environment and biodiversity, while also creating a site that was easier and safer to manage and access.

“We want to create a connection between the top and bottom sections of the gully, linking walking trails, and creating a vibrant open space with additional tree and shrub plantings.

“The Gully spans more than nine hectares so we want to make sure it’s an open space that everyone can enjoy.”

Kardinia Ward councillor Ron Nelson said the city was proud to increase trees and greenery for the Highton community.

“Planting shrubs and trees will support biodiversity and help protect the Barwon River from the impacts of urban stormwater run-off,” Cr Nelson said.

Crews have already removed all debris from the site, conducted herbicide and weed control and installed rabbit-proof fencing.

Works are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

For more information, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/wandanagully/default.aspx