Wildlife project creates one out of the box

THE Torquay Community Men’s Shed has teamed up with the Surf Coast Shire in a project that will help native possums and bats in Grasstree Park Nature Reserve.

Members of the Men’s Shed have built 40 nest boxes specifically designed for native possums and bats.

The nest boxes, to be placed in various locations in the Torquay reserve, are optimal for the animals’ feeding, roosting and breeding behaviours.

Part of the Grasstree Park Nature Reserve Masterplan, the project underpins one of the masterplan’s goals – to improve habitat for native fauna.

“The number of old trees with hollows are declining in urban areas such as Torquay, which leaves fewer places for hollow-dependent native wildlife species to rest and breed,” Winchelsea Ward councillor Carol McGregor said.

“Nest boxes placed into trees give species such as possums and bats a safe and dry place.”

There are at least two possum species (common brushtail and common ringtail) and four bat species (chocolate wattled, lesser-long eared, large forest and little forest) known to visit Grasstree Park.

Bats which use the new boxes will play their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They will assist with mosquito management, as a microbat can eat up to 1,200 mosquitoes in an hour.

The Grasstree Park Nature Reserve Masterplan will also improve native vegetation and weed management, while a new carpark and reserve entry on Messmate Road will be constructed.

Winchelsea Ward councillor Heather Wellington said there was a focus on making the reserve more accessible for residents and visitors.

“Pathways, seating and nature walks are all part of the plan, and will make Grasstree Park an attractive space for people looking to experience the outdoors.

“A revegetation program has also started, with indigenous plants to be grown.”

Coast ti-tree, a recognised weed in the area, will be removed over time as more shrubs and trees are planted. While the new trees are growing, artificial nest boxes will help provide habitat for native wildlife.

The Grasstree Park Masterplan is a collaboration between community members, stakeholders and Surf Coast Shire. It was endorsed by the council in August 2016 to guide the protection of the significant environmental asset.