A new look and more facilities are on the way for the Bellarine’s popular Ocean Grove Nature Reserve and local residents are being asked to have their say.
Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio has opened consultation for $245,000 of upgrades to the main entrance, car park and toilets at the reserve.
The works form part of the Victorian government’s Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Program for the Bellarine Peninsula, which offers protection for the environment, landscapes and lifestyle of the area.
Ocean Grove Nature Reserve contains the last remaining woodland on the Bellarine Peninsula as it was prior to European settlement. Home to native species including wallabies, echidnas and lizards, it is a popular area for walking and environmental education.
The new car park off Grubb Road will have 50 parking spaces, and an enlarged toilet block will cater for increasing numbers of visitors.
Parks Victoria will work with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners on the improvements to ensure ongoing protection of the reserve’s cultural heritage values, as well as developing a Cultural Heritage Management Plan.
“The last two years have really brought home the importance of places like the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve for local communities and the Victorian government is investing to ensure they continue to be much-loved and enjoyed by all for years to come,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
Consultation on the proposed design for the upgrades at Ocean Grove Nature Reserve will run until December 30.
Parks Victoria staff will be available at drop-in sessions at the visitor centre car park (entrance via Grubb Rd) on Saturday, December 18 and Sunday, December 19, from 10am-noon.
Design options will be featured on signage at the reserve with feedback welcome via parks.vic.gov.au/projects/ocean-grove-nature-reserve.
