More than 52,000 trees, grasses, and shrubs will be planted in Wandana Gully as it reaches the final stages of a project to improve the drainage reserve in Highton.
The City of Greater Geelong has invested $1.5 million in the project to turn Wandana Gully into an open space.
Crews are planting 86 trees such as eucalypts and acacia, 80 shrubs such as bottlebrushes, and more than 52,000 ground covers including tussock grass, inland pigface, saltbush, and broadleaf hopbush.
Crews have already removed debris from the site, conducted herbicide and weed control, installed rabbit proof fencing, and jute matting, topsoil, and tree guarding.
Kardinia Ward councillor Ron Nelson said the City was increasing trees and greenery for the Highton community.
“Planting shrubs and trees will support biodiversity and help protect the Barwon River from the impacts of urban stormwater run-off,” he said.
Wandana Gully functions as a drainage reserve between Valencay Avenue, Nedlands Avenue, Stoneleigh Crescent and Cholet Court in Highton.
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the project will help protect and enhance the environment and biodiversity while also creating a site that is easier and safer to manage and access.
“We want to create a connection between the top and bottom sections of the gully, linking walking trails, and creating a vibrant open space with additional tree and shrub plantings,” he said.
“The gully spans more than nine hectares so we want to make sure it’s an open space that everyone can enjoy.”
