After nearly two decades of hands-on environmental care, the Bunyip Sanctuary Committee of Management has officially been disbanded by Cardinia Shire Council.
Formed in 1996, the committee was made up of passionate locals who took on the care and restoration of the Bunyip Sanctuary Reserve. From mowing tracks and removing weeds to improving public access and enhancing biodiversity, their work became a model of grassroots stewardship.
By 2014, most members had retired, moved away, or were unable to continue due to health reasons. That year, the committee formally notified the Council of their decision to step down from managing the sanctuary. Since then, Council’s Natural Reserves Team has overseen the site’s care but until now, the committee had never been formally disbanded.
At the 21 July meeting, Deputy Mayor Cr Alanna Pomeroy led the acknowledgement of the committee’s legacy.
“Alan Cole, a previous chairman, was also one of the founding members of Bunyip Landcare and it’s great to see their continued efforts on the site,” she said.
“During school holidays, they held an opportunity for any community members to come out and wander around and see all the native flora and fauna there.
“For 18 years, this Committee of Management transformed the site. The site was once used for cattle grazing, infested with blackberries, ragwort and thistles. It is now a place to get active, immerse yourself in nature and a habitat for our valued flora and fauna.
“I would like to pay my respect to the dedicated volunteers on this committee for having the vision and committing thousands of hours to enhance and protect this site. I also like to recognise the hundreds of volunteers that are still helping out.”
She recalled the joy of community planting days, rubbish clean-ups, and school holiday walks, calling the sanctuary “a true partnership” between the community and the Council’s Nature Reserves team.
Cr Casey Thompson echoed the sentiment, describing the sanctuary as “a lovely little hidden gem” and saying the committee’s efforts had ensured its longevity.
