Aim

To assist in the re-establishment and preservation of the flora and fauna of the Lower Yarra Valley at the La Trobe University's Wildlife Reserves.

Objectives

- To promote interest in the aim of the Wildlife Reserves within the University and the general community.
- To encourage an awareness and appreciation of the indigenous flora and fauna and the processes which are endangering them.
- To foster goodwill and support of the neighbours of the Wildlife Reserves.
- To seek financial assistance for the Wildlife Reserves.

The Wildlife Reserves are located in Bundoora and include La Trobe University Campus Reserve/Melbourne Wildlife Sanctuary, Gresswell Forest, Gresswell Hill and Strathallan Habitat Link.

Why are the reserves important?

- Contain over 315 native fauna species

- One of Australia’s oldest conservation bushland regeneration projects

- Contain the last intact stand of River Redgum / Yellow Box Grassy Woodland in the Port Phillip region

- Have Australia’s last stand of River Redgum on Silurian soil

- Part of the last .0001% of Plains Grassy Woodlands left in Victoria

- Is a major educational and teaching facility

- Forms part of the critical North East Wildlife Corridor

- Uniquely Australia's largest and only living, breathing classroom (120 hectares).

At this point in time - 18th April 2012

At 30 June 2011 La Trobe University revoked management of Gresswell Nature Conservation Reserves (Gresswell Forest, Gresswell Hill and Gresswell Habitat Link.)

No new manager has yet been appointed by Minister for the Environment, Ryan Smith. These Reserves need ongoing maintenance to keep weeds removed, tracks repaired and Salt Creek unblocked.

We have been in regular contact with Department of Sustainability and Environment relating our concerns and the need for action now.

Any photos that show deterioration should be forwarded to ryan.smith@parliament.vic.gov.au
(Minister for the Environment)