The Holden Flora and Fauna Reserve is not well known in the local community, but along with other public and private land to its north and south, has very significant conservation values that are being compromised by pest plants and animals. It also forms part of the recently announced, “Jacksons Creek Regional Parklands”, and with the Redstone and Everley subdivisions selling land on the opposite bank, the timing is primed for a significant funding injection. This project will build resilience for important biodiversity in the Reserve and adjoining properties in the face of rapidly expanding urban pressure. It will also help establish the foundation for a Parkland that can support the well-being of this rapidly expanding community.

From a practical perspective, a significant barrier to rehabilitation of this site are large woody weeds located in the riparian zone. The extent of these weeds demands the use of heavy machinery. The Project will navigate the sensitivities associated with heavy machinery use along creeklines by empowering the Traditional Owners to undertake the core weed control works themselves. Training to expand their heavy machinery operator skill base will also deliver on the government’s social procurement commitments, bring significant business development benefits to the Wurundjeri and demonstrate to Partners and other interested parties how landscape rehabilitation can be achieved in culturally sensitive areas.