Cardinia Shire Council officially opened the new Wetland Wonders boardwalk project at Deep Creek Reserve on Friday 11 February.
Deep Creek Reserve is an environment, education and recreation destination in Pakenham.
The Cardinia Shire Council has converted 480,000 sqm of former farmland into the Deep Creek Reserve, transforming the space into a regional environmental precinct which last year won the Premier’s Sustainability Award.
Last year, the council was successful in receiving a grant of $200,000 from the Victorian Government through the Integrated Water Management Forums that are run by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning which funded half of the Wetland Wonders project.
The grant helped to fund the construction of the boardwalk, interpretational aspects of the Wetland Wonders area, as well as the Bunurong Traditional Owner story of Waa, which tells of the importance of the wetlands to the Bunurong people and of their unique relationship to Country in the Deep Creek Reserve precinct.
Cardinia Mayor Jeff Springfield was thrilled to see the Wetland Wonders project at Deep Creek Reserve as he toured the area with Bass MP Jordan Crugnale.
“This has been a real team effort to get this amazing project to where it is today,” Cr Springfield said.
“I encourage all of our residents and their families to head along and experience the newly completed Wetland Wonders at Deep Creek Reserve.”
“It’s a very exciting day for local communities particularly children and families and our First Nations communities.
Ms Crugnale said it was a fantastic addition to the 48 hectare Deep Creek Reserve showcasing the stunning 6 hectares of wetlands, a place of environmental significance.
“It’s a massive community asset for Cardinia and everyone that comes into Cardinia,” Ms Crugnale said.
“The Wetlands Wonder Discovery Trail and boardwalks, each with viewing platforms, are a fantastic addition to 48 hectare Deep Creek Reserve.
“Special thanks to the Bunurong Land Council, Cardinia Shire Council and South East Water for their dedicated work for this project. Whether it’s the walking trails, educational centre, accessible playground or wetlands there is something for everyone here and it is a tremendous local asset.
“Now is the perfect time to experience this amazing open space with your friends and family to explore, play and to learn about our local protected environment.”
For more information about the project, visit the council’s website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/deepcreek or call the parks and environment team on 1300 787 624.
