Work on Sparrovale Wetlands continues

THE City of Greater Geelong council is anticpating world-class wetlands wil be created at the future Sparrovale Nature Reserve.

Work is now being done in the park to help create what will eventually be 200 hectares of wetlands, both natural and constructed. This will provide a crucial drainage solution to the ever-growing Armstrong Creek.

Goldsmith Civil and Environmental began work on the wetlands in late October, with the council having acquired the 500-hectare parcel of land known as Sparrovale earlier that year.

The site is closed to the public while construction on the stormwater system is under way.

Cr Eddy Kontelj said the area would be a fantastic place to visit once it was finished.

“We are looking forward to completing the works and allowing residents and visitors the chance to access and enjoy the unique space.”

The project is expected to cost $4.02 million.

It will include the creation and landscaping of linear wetlands, earthen channels, access roads and drainage structures.

The council envisages the wetlands becoming home to many migratory birds, including sharp-tailed sandpipers, whiskered terns, a variety of ducks, herons, stilts and brolga.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the wetlands would be a great benefit to the region.

“Sparrovale is an exciting project that will deliver a world-class wetland and a practical drainage measure to support the expanding Armstrong Creek community.

“It is a living example of a clever and creative solution that also aligns with our intention to take a leadership position with sustainability.”

Residents will also have their input in the new public parkland during the development of the future Sparrovale Master Plan.