Friends of Metung, in association with FOGL have recently been advised that their application for funding through the Parks Victoria ‘Healthy Parks, Healthy People Community Group Grants’ has been successful, with $10,000 being allocated to the project. This is great news and means that work can now begin on a variety of important works. A timeline for action has been developed with initial priorities being wilderness gates, bollards and boulders to restrict vehicular access. These are currently being ordered. Minor entry signs are also a priority with directional and interpretive signs being researched. Table and chairs are also being ordered. A plant list of specific species for planting in the late autumn/winter has been developed and growers being contacted.

This, of course will mean a requirement for volunteers at various stages, including the installation of the gates, etc. Requests will be emailed!

As well, Neville Pinnow and I met with Peter Murrell, Facilitator with East Gippsland Rainforest Conservation Management Network to determine the status of the gully area within the Reserve. We have been uncertain as to whether or not Warm Temperate Rainforest (E. Gippsland Coastal) planting is appropriate there. At this stage, it looks positive, but we await formal feedback.

In the meantime, Springtime in the Reserve has been glorious and if you’ve never visited the area, take a look; it’s obviously degraded but still quite an unexpected treasure within a township. Access is behind the Primary School, up the bitumen track to the water tower. No signs as yet!! Just explore.

Jenny Dalgleish