Revegetation and weed control along the Great Ocean Road

Published on 23 July 2024

We have partnered with communities in Torquay, Lorne and Kennett River to tackle weeds and regenerate popular coastal areas.

In Kennett River, our Conservation team has been working hard to manage weeds and spread mulch along the riparian zone of the Kennett River.

On Saturday 13 July, rangers worked with the Kennett Community Action Group to plant more than 500 trees, grasses, and shrubs as part of ongoing regeneration works along the river.

The works aim to improve wildlife habitat, increase biodiversity and minimise the impact of visitors on wildlife.

In Lorne, Rangers have teamed up with volunteers from LorneCare to revegetate the Two Sisters’ car park. On Sunday 18 August, volunteers are invited to join a working bee to revegetate Windy Point.

Approximately 1000 indigenous species of grasses and shrubs will be planted over Windy Point and the Two Sisters car park, based on Ecological Vegetation Classes.

Meanwhile, in Torquay, our Conservation team has been busy treating large woody weeds in Taylor Park.

Rangers have been treating overcrowded Sugar Gums, Sallow Wattle and Bushy Yate to encourage indigenous ground cover to return to the park.

We are also gearing up to tackle a Sea Spurge infestation at Petticoat Creek near Apollo Bay in the coming weeks.

Sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is an invasive weed that threatens native fauna and flora in coastal areas, notably the threatened Hooded Plover.

Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Director Environment and Coastal Operations Dr Lisa Mills

“Our commitment doesn’t stop here. We’ll continue to monitor these sites, tackle any weeds and support the young plants as they establish themselves and thrive.

By targeting weeds and increasing native vegetation cover we can build resilience into coastal ecosystems.

We’re thankful to all the volunteers rolling up their sleeves to help us care for our beautiful coastline.”