Bush haven gets a facelift

A FAVOURITE bush haven has been given a new lease of life.
RJ Chambers Flora and Fauna Reserve in Upper Pakenham — a popular attraction for nature lovers — has undergone a facelift.
The park was recently upgraded with a new car parking area along Bourke’s Creek Road, and the closure of vehicle access to the picnic area.
Cardinia Shire Council officials hope the facelift will make the reserve more userfriendly.
Revegetation has also begun and indigenous plantings and mulching will be completed soon.
Council’s manager of environment and heritage Ian Stevenson said RJ Chambers Reserve had regional botanic and zoological significance.
“The reserve is home to the regionally endangered West Gippsland scent bark (Eucalyptus fulgens), which dominates the vegetation west of the picnic ground,” Mr Stevenson said.
“The area is also home to rare native wildlife including significant species of birds, such as the elusive southern emu wren.
“These changes to the reserve will increase opportunities for people to enjoy this significant forested setting.
Extensive walking tracks lead to Toomuc Creek and surrounds and provide an important link to regional trails.
Mr Stevenson said direct access to the picnic area was still possible on foot or horseback, reducing the impact of vehicles in the area.
Horses are permitted on perimeter track as signposted.
“We believe the improvements to RJ Chambers will increase the value of this natural bushland reserve by increasing the protection of native wildlife and by enhancing the area as a beautiful and tranquil place for residents and visitors alike,” Mr Stevenson said.
The Friends of RJ Chambers Reserve welcome any interested members of the general public to join them in a planting day on Sunday 6 August from 10am, followed by a barbecue.