Grassy woodlands once dominated most of the area around the Darebin Creek.  Remnant River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) can still be found in places like Bundoora Park and private land further up in the top of the catchment. However there are relatively few places where the understorey of this type of vegetation is still intact.  The area on the west side of the Darebin Creek near Sullivans Memorial Park is a good example of the pre-European vegetation community that once occurred frequently along the creek.

The Friends of Darebin Creek are actively involved in restoring this important area. The City of Darebin Bushland Management manages this one-hectare remnant.  It contains a good variety of native grasses, lilies and shrubs, which are all a good indicator of the sites health.

Of critical importance to this vegetation type is the need for frequent fire.  Fire reduces the competitive nature of the indigenous Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra).  Kangaroo Grass can potentially smoother other wildflower species at the site.

The close proximity of housing and industry to the site posses an obvious dilemma for fire management.  Without frequent burning, the diversity and health of the site will be jeopardised.  Fires often result from the actions of vandals, who have inadvertently assisted in reducing the cover of Kangaroo Grass.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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