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Mullum Mullum ParkStrategic Management Plan February 2012

Published in February 2012 by Parks Victoria

Level 10, 535 Bourke Street

Melbourne VIC 3000

National Library of Australia

Cataloguing in Publication

Entry

Parks Victoria

Mullum Mullum Park Strategic Management Plan

February 2012

Bibliography

ISBN 9 780731 183 869

1. Metropolitan and Regional Parks – Victoria

– Management

2. Mullum Mullum Park Strategic Management

Plan February 2012 (Vic). I. Title

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure that the

information in this publication is accurate. Parks Victoria

does not guarantee that the report is without flaw of any

kind and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss

or other consequence, which may arise from you relying

on any information in the publication.

Cover Image:

Clustered Everlasting (Chrysocephalum semipapposum)

Park Images: Scott Crabtree

Fauna Images: Parks Victoria

Foreword

The 35 hectare Mullum Mullum Park is an important area of remnant bushland in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

The park, which is managed by Parks Victoria, is a significant area for the local community which has supported the protection of the bushland over many years. The park forms part of the ecological and open space linkages along Mullum Mullum Creek through to its confluence with the Yarra River. The scenic bushland contains a wide diversity of flora and fauna including about 230 recorded vascular plant species, and other significant species such as the endangered Powerful Owl. Evidence of occupation by the ancestors of the Wurundjeri people as well as historic links with the European settlement of the area remain.

The EastLink Trail will continue to be the main focus of recreation in the park, and visitors can enjoy low impact recreational activities including bushwalking, bird watching, and picnicking.

Spending time in parks is good for human wellbeing. Parks Victoria is committed to providing places for people to enjoy time in nature, to be active and to interact with others in their community. To support our commitment to improving liveability throughout Victoria, we’re encouraging the whole community to enjoy the physical, mental and social health benefits that this park provides.

This plan was finalised following the careful consideration of the sixteen submissions made in response to the draft plan. I commend this plan to you and thank all those organisations and individuals for their valuable contribution. I look forward to a continuing high level of community interest and support in managing the park.

Bill Jackson

Chief Executive

Parks Victoria

Mullum Mullum Park iStrategic Management Plan

Executive Summary

Mullum Mullum Park (the park) is a remarkable remnant of natural bushland situated along the gorge section of Mullum Mullum Creek in the suburbs of Donvale and Mitcham. The park is located about 25 kilometres east of the centre of Melbourne and covers an area of 35 hectares. The bushland, the Mullum Mullum Creek, the Walert Creek and the wildlife found in the park provide a surprising contrast to the surrounding suburban development.

The park was established on bushland protected from the EastLink Freeway development through the construction of tunnels under Mullum Mullum Creek. The park was officially opened on 19 June 2009 and is managed by Parks Victoria.

Mullum Mullum Park will be managed

to enhance its natural, cultural and

landscape values, and to encourage

ongoing community connections,

stewardship and involvement in park

management.

The role of this Strategic Management Plan (the plan) is to provide a strategic framework and clear direction for the management of the park over the next 15 years. The plan was prepared in consultation with key stakeholders and the community.

The park is a significant area for the local community which has supported the protection of the bushland over many years. It also forms part of the ecological and open space linkages along Mullum Mullum Creek to its confluence with the Yarra River. Adjoining reserves are the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex and Yarran Dheran Reserve (managed by Whitehorse City Council); and Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park and Huggins Reserve (managed by Manningham City Council). These reserves extend the recreational opportunities in and near the park.

In addition, the EastLink Trail, which traverses the park, provides linkages to existing and proposed trails along Mullum Mullum Creek and Melbourne’s wider trail network.

The park includes the following key values:

• some of the most intact streamside vegetation in metropolitan Melbourne, including areas of the regionally significant Valley Heathy Forest and Swampy Riparian Complex Ecological Vegetation Classes;

• a wide diversity of flora and fauna, including about 230 species of recorded vascular plant species and significant fauna species such as the Powerful Owl;

• vegetation which forms an important wildlife habitat corridor along Mullum Mullum Creek to the Yarra River;

• Indigenous and European cultural heritage links;

• high local community attachment reflected in a long history of support for bushland protection and volunteer activities;

• natural scenic landscape which contributes to the amenity and character of the surrounding residential areas; and

• opportunities for walking, cycling, nature appreciation and education based on the park’s natural, cultural and landscape values.

During the life of this plan, the park will be managed to enhance its natural, cultural and landscape values, and to encourage ongoing community connections, stewardship and involvement in its management. It is expected that the park will be used mainly by the local community and its importance to a wide range of people older, younger, schools and other groups is recognised. Low impact recreational opportunities in keeping with the park’s

ii Executive Summary

values will be provided and activities managed to ensure they are safe, enjoyable and environmentally sustainable.

Interpretation and education opportunities will be an important focus.

The EastLink Trail will be the main focus of recreation in the park, and trail connections from nearby residential areas and opportunities for recreation in a bushland setting will continue. The main visitor gateway is at the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex with a minor gateway at Yarran Dheran Reserve. Visitor infrastructure will be limited to the trail, gateways and signage needs. Monitoring of visitor use will provide information to determine the longer term recreation and infrastructure needs of the park.

EastLink Trail Garden.

Mullum Mullum Park Strategic Management Plan

iii

Clustered Everlasting (

Contents

Foreword i

Executive Summary ii

Contents v

1 Background 11.1 The History of Mullum Mullum Park 1

2 Regional Context 32.1 Location 32.2 Surrounding Community 32.3 Open Space and Trails 52.4 Nearby Reserves 52.5 Other Management Agencies 62.6 Significant Stakeholders 72.7 Fire and Emergency Management 7

3 Key Values 93.1 Flora 93.2 Fauna 103.3 Cultural Heritage 113.4 Landscape 113.5 Visitor Experience and Recreation 12

4 Vision164.1 Guiding Principles 16

5 Strategic Directions 185.1 Natural and Cultural Values 185.2 Visitor Experience and Recreation 185.3 Community Awareness and Involvement 195.4 Management Partnerships 20

6 Key Actions 226.1 Overview 226.2 Natural Environment 226.3 Visitor Experience and Recreation 246.4 Community Awareness and Involvement 256.5 Management Partnerships 25

References 26

Appendix 1 – Ecological Vegetation Classes in Mullum Mullum Park 28

MapsMap 1 - Mullum Mullum Park 2Map 2 - Mullum Mullum Park Regional Links 4

Mullum Mullum Park vStrategic Management Plan

vi ContentsMullum Mullum CreekLooking upstream towards Eastlink Freeway

Background

1.1 The History of Mullum Mullum Park

Mullum Mullum Park (the park) is an area of significant remnant bushland located within the Mullum Mullum Valley in the east of Melbourne. The natural landscape of the park is a remarkable survivor in the suburban landscape that has developed around it. The park was established as a result of widespread community support over many years for protection of the bushland from threats including freeway development. As a result, the EastLink Freeway has been located in tunnels under the park and Mullum Mullum Creek.

The establishment of the new park, to be managed by Parks Victoria, was announced by the State Government on 26 October 2006. The park was officially opened on 19 June 2009.

The park provides the formal mechanism for protecting the natural values that have survived in this part of the Mullum Mullum Valley and a means by which the community that has pushed for its conservation can participate in its management and enjoyment.

The park was formed from land held under various tenures, including freehold land held by VicRoads, Crown Land managed by the South and Eastern Integrated Transport Authority (SEITA) and Crown Land held by the Minister for Planning. Upon finalisation of land transfers, it is anticipated that the park will be reserved as a Natural Features Reserve under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 (Vic).

The park forms part of Melbourne’s open space network. The planning and management of the network is guided by the strategy, Linking People and Spaces, published by Parks Victoria in 2002. Linking People and Spaces aims to bring social, ecological and economic benefits to the Melbourne community through the establishment of open space and native vegetation linkages, and an interconnected and accessible trail network. Trail linkages along Mullum Mullum Creek are identified as a long term action in the strategy.

The purpose of this Strategic Management Plan is to establish the key directions for the park over the next 15 years. The Strategic Management Plan was prepared with input from key stakeholders and the community; including consultation with representatives of community groups who have had a long term involvement and interest in the protection of bushland along Mullum Mullum Creek.

The Park was established following

widespread community support over

many years for the protection of

bushland.

Mullum Mullum Park 1Strategic Management Plan

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Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park

DONVALE

Huggins Reserve

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Hillcrest Reserve

MANN NGHAM C TY COUNC L WH TEHORSE C TY COUNC L

Yarran Dheran Reserve

Antonio Park

Schwerkolt Cottage

MITCHAM Antonio Park

LEGENDMullum Mullum Park

Surrounding Open SpaceBridge

Rivers / Streams

LGA

Boundary

Access Points

Bicycle Access

Toilets

MAP 1: MULLUM MULLUM PARKGeocentric Datum of Australia (GDA 94) Zone 55. Map produced by Parks Victoria. This map supersedes all previous aditions. Data source acknowledgements: State Digital Mapbase. The State of Victoria and Department of Sustainability and

EastLink

Shared Trail

Shared Trail - Stage 3

Secondary Track

Picnic

Facilities

Walking

Tracks

BBQ

Carpark

0 0.125 0.25

kilometres

Environment.

Disclaimer: Parks Victoria does not guarantee that this data is without flaw of any kind and therefore disclaims all liabitity wich may arise from you relying on this information.

Gd d

W

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2

Regional Context

2.1 Location

The park is located about 25 kilometres from the centre of Melbourne. It comprises an area of 35 hectares which extends for about 2.5 kilometres along the central part of Mullum Mullum Creek from near Heads Road in Donvale to near Deep Creek Road in Mitcham. The park falls within three local government areas: Whitehorse, Manningham, and a small section of Maroondah.

In the south west, the park is bordered by the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex and Yarran Dheran Reserve, both managed by the Whitehorse City Council. In the north east, the park is bordered by the Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park and Huggins Reserve, managed by the Manningham City Council (Map 1).

Elsewhere, the park is bordered by residential developments in the suburbs of Donvale and Mitcham. It is also close to the suburbs of Ringwood North and Ringwood on the east side of the EastLink Freeway.

2.2 Surrounding Community

The park is situated in an established residential area developed mainly between the 1950s and

1980s. The adjacent Cities of Manningham, Whitehorse and Maroondah are expected to

experience small tomoderate population growth (an average of 0.47 percent per year for Manningham, 0.26 percent for Whitehorse and 0.8 percent for Maroondah) in the period to 2026, mainly associated with infill and medium density residential development. Overall, an increase in the population in the early retirement and retirement age groups is expected. However, younger population profiles are likely in areas of new and renewed residential development.

In 2006, the total population in suburbs close to the park (Mitcham, Donvale, Ringwood North and Ringwood) was about 50,000. About 23 percent of residents were born overseas, mainly in the United Kingdom, Italy, New Zealand, China, Malaysia and India.

Donvale and Ringwood North are relatively affluent suburbs of separate houses where over half the families are comprised of couples with children. Mitcham and Ringwood have more mixed populations, family structures and income levels.

Future population growth near the park is expected to occur mainly in medium density infill developments in Mitcham and in the Ringwood Central Activity District.

Ringwood was identified as a residential, commercial and business centre under the metropolitan strategy, Melbourne 2030. In the 2008 update to that strategy, Melbourne @ 5 Million, it was designated as one of six Central Activity Districts aimed at decentralising development from the centre of Melbourne (DPDC 2008b). Higher density residential development and improved pedestrian and bicycle access is proposed in the north west of Ringwood (Maroondah City Council 2009). In the longer term, this development may lead to increased local use of the park, as it is easily accessed on the shared trail along Mullum Mullum Creek.

Aerial image of Mullum Mullum Park.

The Eastlink Trail connects Mullum Mullum Park to the surrounding community.

Mullum Mullum Park 3

Strategic Management Plan

Barak Bushland

ELTHAM

Nillumbik

Yarra Valley Parklands

NORTH WARRANDYTE

Warrandyte State Park


Yarra Valley Parklands


Tikalara Park

Candlebark Park

WARRANDYTE

Currawong Bush Reserve

TEMPLESTO E

WARRANDYTE SOUTH

Buck Reserve

PARK ORCHARDS

The 100 Acres Reserve

Ruffey Lake Park

DONCASTER DON N ALE

DONCASTER EAST

Manningham

Mullum Mullum Park

RINGWOOD

WhitehorseMITCHAM

NUNAWADING

BLACKB RNBlackburn Lake Sanctuary

MaroondahHEATHMONT

LEGENDParks Victoria

Parks

Box

N

Shared Trail (prop)MAP 2: MULLUM MULLUM PARK REGIONAL LINKS

LGA Boundary

Surrounding Open Space

EastLink

Shared Trail

Local Roads

Arterial Roads

Collector Roads

Railway

Rivers / Streams

0 0.5 1

kilometres

Geocentric Datum of Australia (GDA 94) Zone 55. Map producedby Parks Victoria. This map supersedes all previous aditions. Data source acknowledgements: State Digital Mapbase. The State of Victoria and Department of Sustainability and Environment.

Disclaimer: Parks Victoria does not guarantee that this data is without flaw of any kind and therefore disclaims all liabitity wich may arise from you relying on this information.

4

2.3 Open Space and Trails

The park forms a significant link in an almost continuous open space corridor extending along Mullum Mullum Creek from its headwaters in Croydon to its confluence with the Yarra River at Tikalara Park, Templestowe. The corridor includes the City of Manningham’s Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park which connects with the north east side of Mullum Mullum Park at Beckett Road. This corridor joins with the Yarra Valley Parklands, which extend for 16 kilometres along the Yarra River from Ivanhoe to Warrandyte (Map 2).

The park is also traversed by 1.6 kilometres of the EastLink Trail, a shared use pedestrian and bicycle path which was constructed along EastLink as part of the freeway development. Through the EastLink Trail, the park is linked to Melbourne’s wider trail network, including:

• north to the Koonung Creek Trail which follows the Eastern Freeway west to the Main Yarra Trail; and

• south along the EastLink Trail to Carrum on Port Phillip Bay, with linkages to the Dandenong Creek Trail (through the Dandenong Valley Parklands) and the Bay Trail to Port Melbourne.

With the completion of a shared path through the Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park in the City of Manningham in the next few years, shared use pedestrian and bicycle trails will extend along the whole of Mullum Mullum Creek, connecting with the Main Yarra Trail along the Yarra River. These trails will be comprised of:

• the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail between the creek headwaters and Mullum Mullum Park in the City of Maroondah;

• the EastLink Trail through Mullum Mullum Park; and

• the shared path through Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park.

The urban region around the park is relatively well supplied with a range of open space reserves. Open space reserves occupy 1,980 hectares or 17 percent of the City of Manningham, 690 hectares or 10.7 percent of the City of Whitehorse and 540 hectares or 9 percent of the City of Maroondah.

2.4 Nearby Reserves

Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex

Schwerkolt Cottage is an original pioneer's stone cottage in a 2.25 hectare garden setting bordering the south east of Mullum Mullum Park. As well as the historic stone cottage, a museum and other buildings, the complex includes a car park, gardens, BBQ and toilet facilities and interpretation signs. The car park, which is located off Deep Creek Road, also provides access to the park and the EastLink Trail. A closed section of Deep Creek Road, adjacent to the Cottage car park, is within the boundaries of the park and is used as overflow car parking.

The Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex is managed by Whitehorse City Council in conjunction with the Whitehorse Historical Society. It provides opportunities for general family recreation, picnicking, heritage appreciation and education, and is used as a venue for functions. The grounds are

Quarry Rd Bridge.

Schwerkolt Cottage.

EastLink Trail through Mullum Mullum Park.

open throughout the week, while the Cottage and Museum are open on weekends and public holiday afternoons, when they are staffed by volunteers.

Yarran Dheran Reserve

Yarran Dheran Reserve parallels the park on the southern side of Mullum Mullum Creek between Quarry Road and the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex. The Reserve comprises a total area of 7.2 hectares which includes an area of natural bushland and a former quarry and municipal tip site which has been rehabilitated with local and other plant species (Yarran Dheran website).

Yarran Dheran Reserve contains a network of graded paths (which link with the EastLink Trail in the park), car parks at Ashburton Drive and Quarry Road, picnic areas, a visitor information centre and toilets. Mullum Mullum Park and the EastLink Trail can be accessed through the Reserve and directly from the small Quarry Road car park.

The Reserve is managed by Whitehorse City Council in conjunction with the Yarran Dheran Advisory Committee. A volunteer group, the Friends of Yarran Dheran, has assisted in planting and maintenance activities and staffs the visitor information centre, which is open on two Sundays a month.

Antonio Park

Antonio Park is an area of bushland along Deep Creek Road about 100 metres south of Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex. It contains a car park, picnic area, playground and bush walking tracks. It is managed by Whitehorse City Council in conjunction with the Antonio Park Advisory Committee.

Huggins Reserve

Eastlink Outlet Tower operated by ConnectEast.

Melbourne Water is responsible for the management of the bed and banks of the Mullum Mullum Creek.

Huggins Reserve is a small area of bushland managed by Manningham City Council. Located near the end of Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park off Beckett Road, it is surrounded by Mullum Mullum Park. Parks Victoria and Manningham City Council are discussing cooperative management arrangements for this area.

2.5 Other Management Agencies

ConnectEast

ConnectEast is the operator of EastLink, contracted by the State of Victoria to operate EastLink as a toll road until 2043. Two emergency access points to the EastLink tunnels are located in the park and require 24 hour access by ConnectEast and emergency services. Access is also required to three air quality monitoring stations by the Environment Protection Authority for monitoring of air quality in the vicinity of the EastLink tunnels. These stations are to be removed shortly.

ConnectEast is also responsible for maintenance of the EastLink Trail. In the park, ConnectEast’s maintenance responsibilities comprise the trail bridges and a 4 metre zone around and above the trail.

Melbourne Water

Melbourne Water is responsible for the management of the bed and banks of the Mullum Mullum Creek. The environmental condition of the creek has been impacted by changed flow regimes and pollution due to urban stormwater runoff, effluent spills, and dumping of rubbish. Weed invasion and bank erosion have adversely affected the riparian zone.

6 Regional Context —

Under its 5 year Waterway Health Program (2008/09 to 2013/14), Melbourne Water is conducting weed removal, bank revegetation, flow improvement and aquatic habitat improvement works along Mullum Mullum Creek (Melbourne Water 2007).

A Melbourne Water pipeline easement passes through the park.

A gas pipeline is also situated in the park.

2.6 Significant Stakeholders

Several community groups have provided support over many years for the protection of bushland along Mullum Mullum Creek, including the area now in the park. These groups were involved in lobbying for protection of the bushland from freeway development and, in some cases, in volunteer bushland maintenance such as weeding, tree planting and plant propagation. Members of these groups have an ongoing interest in management of the park.

• Australian Conservation Foundation, Mullum Branch;

• Friends of Mullum Mullum Valley;

• Friends of Yarran Dheran and the Yarran Dheran Advisory Committee;

• Hillcrest Association;

• Koonung Forestway Association;

• Mullum Mullum Festival Committee;

• Whitehorse Historical Society; and

• Wurundjeri Tribe Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Inc.

2.7 Fire and Emergency Management

The management of fire in the park is complex, involving fire risk, fire behaviour and ecological considerations. The last major fire which burnt through the current park occurred in 1962 and started many kilometres to the north. Fire management planning and response in the general area involves local government and several agencies, including the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and the Country Fire Authority (which also have roles in general emergency incident response).

With its largely urban catchment, Mullum Mullum Creek is subject to rapid rises in water level after heavy rain. Melbourne Water operates a 24 hour rainfall and flood monitoring network as a basis for issuing flood warnings.

“There is a lot of expert knowledge

within the community, naturalists,

botanists and bird watchers, all of

whom have helped with their

knowledge, concern and passion for

this beautiful area” (Nature Educator,

Naturalist – 2010).


Key Values

The indigenous vegetation of Mullum Mullum Park is considered to be among the most intact streamside vegetation in the Melbourne metropolitan area. It forms an important link in the vegetation corridor extending along Mullum Mullum Creek to the Yarra River.

3.1 Flora

Detailed flora assessments of the area now in the park were conducted between 1998 and 2000 (Botanicus Australia, 1998, 1999a & b, 2000). A wide diversity of flora species is present in the park, with about 230 indigenous vascular plant species having been recorded. It contains numerous species of orchids and other plant species listed as protected under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic).

The park is situated on the western edge of the Gippsland Plains Bioregion and contains remnants of five Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) which are described in Appendix 1. Two EVCs (Valley Heathy Forest and Swampy Riparian Complex) are classified as endangered in the Gippsland Plains Bioregion.

The Valley Heathy Forest in the park is a significant remnant of this EVC. The area adjacent to Chaim Court and the former Hillcrest Bushland in the north east of the park are in particularly good condition. Valley Heathy Forest includes an upper canopy of Red Stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), Bundy (Eucalyptus goniocalyx) and Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora); and smaller trees such as Cherry Ballart (Exocarpos cupressiformis), Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata) and Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon).

Smaller areas of Valley Heathy Forest occur in the vicinity of the park in Huggins Reserve, Yarran Dheran Reserve and Antonio Park.

Riparian Forest is located along Mullum Mullum Creek. This EVC is in a relatively degraded condition in the park as the understorey has been affected by weed invasion and high stream flows caused by urban stormwater runoff in the creek. Nevertheless, the large Swamp Gums (Eucalyptus ovata) and Manna Gums (Eucalyptus viminalis) along the creek provide habitat for arboreal mammals and birds and create a highly scenic environment along the EastLink Trail.

Vegetation in the north west of the park (on and near the former Petty’s Land) contains elements of Valley Grassy Forest and Herb rich Foothill Forest. This vegetation was considered to be of medium to low quality during a floristic survey in 1999, though weeding since that time has improved its condition. Valley Grassy Forest is classified as vulnerable in the Gippsland Plains Bioregion and is considered to be depleted across its entire range.

A remnant of Swampy Riparian Complex occurs along Walert Creek, which includes various fern species. Vegetation along part of Walert Creek was affected by the EastLink tunnel construction and is in the process of restoration.

Many areas now in the park suffered significant weed invasion in the past. Weed sources include garden and other ornamental plantings in the local area and dumping of garden waste.

Major weed species include Sweet Pittosporum, Cotoneaster, Radiata Pine, Three Cornered Garlic, Desert Ash, Tree Privet and Ivy. Blackberry infestations occur along the creek.

Clustered Everlasting (Chrysocephalum semipapposum).

Victorian Christmas-bush (Prostanthera lasianthos).


Brushtail Possum.

Sugar Glider.

Echidna.

Ongoing weed management is important to protect the vegetation communities within the park which are in good condition, and to improve the condition of other areas within the park. Parks Victoria has commenced a targeted weed control program. Weed control is also included in Melbourne Water’s stream improvement works along the Creek.

Valley Heathy Forest is a fire dependent vegetation community in that fire is necessary to promote regeneration of Eucalypt and understorey species (Botanicus Australia 1998).

3.2 Fauna

The vegetation corridor along Mullum Mullum Creek provides a significant corridor for wildlife, enabling a range of species to live in and visit the park. A recent study of the native fauna occurring in the Mullum Mullum Valley found records of 23 butterfly species, 5 fish species, 8 frog species, 13 reptile species, 19 mammal species and 151 bird species occurring in or visiting the valley (Manningham City Council 2008c).

The forests of the park provide a range of habitats, particularly for arboreal mammals, birds and butterflies. The park has high densities of Brushtail and Ringtail Possums, and there are records of Sugar Gliders in the Riparian Forest. Koalas have been present in the area, but their numbers are believed to have declined in recent years due to dry conditions. Climate change poses a risk to the continuation of viable habitat for koalas in the park.

Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Black Wallabies have occasionally been observed in the park area. Echidnas have also been sighted in the general area.

A pair of Powerful Owls is resident in the park. This species is listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic).

As in other urban bushland in the region, native fauna is affected by predation by the Red Fox and escaped domestic cats and dogs. The distribution of bird species in the area is also being affected by competition from other native bird species such as the Rainbow Lorikeet. Feeding of Rainbow Lorikeets by residents is believed to have contributed to the increase in this species in Melbourne (Manningham City Council 2008c).

Two indigenous fish species, the Short-finned Eels and Broad-finned Galaxias have been recorded in Mullum Mullum Creek where it passes through the park (Botanicus Australia 1998). The Platypus has been returning to Mullum Mullum Creek in recent years and has been recorded as far upstream as Ringwood (Australian Platypus Conservancy 2011).

Indigenous fish species are vulnerable to predation or habitat disturbance by introduced pest species. In particular, populations of Carp and Mosquito Fish have been observed in Mullum Mullum Creek in recent years (Manningham City Council 2008c). River improvement works in the creek have the potential to improve conditions for native fauna.

10 Key Values —

3.3 Cultural Heritage

The area of the park is within the traditional territory of Indigenous people from the Woi wurrung language group. The Wurundjeri Tribe Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Inc. has been declared by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council to be the Registered Aboriginal Party for the area. The Wurundjeri people have a special interest in preserving their cultural associations with the overall park landscape.

The name Mullum Mullum is believed to be derived from Aboriginal words meaning ‘place of many eagles’ or ‘place of many butterflies’. Walert Creek in the north of the park was named after the Brushtail Possum after consultation with the Indigenous custodians.

Several Aboriginal archaeological sites have been discovered in and near the park (Everett 1998).

European settlement of the general region commenced around 1850 with the discovery of gold at Andersons Creek (now Warrandyte) and the development of several orchards on higher ground. The Schwerkolt family settled near Mullum Mullum Creek in the early 1860s. Building of the current cottage commenced in 1884, utilising local stone and timber.

Schwerkolt Cottage was acquired and restored by the former City of Nunawading in the 1960s. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and by the National Trust of Australia.

The park is believed to contain quarries and stonework related to construction of the Schwerkolt Cottage and farm operations. Some remnants of former orchards are also present. The ‘Hillcrest Forest Way’, a local walking trail in and near the park, is thought to have followed an historic transport route along Mullum Mullum Creek. The EastLink Trail now follows part of the alignment of the ‘Hillcrest Forest Way’.

Community interest in, and stewardship of, the park area is a significant feature of its recent history.

Interest by Melbourne naturalists and residents in the bushland and wildflower displays in the Mullum Mullum Valley area is recorded from the 1920s and 1930s (Friends of Mullum Mullum Valley website). With increased post war suburban development in the area and a series of proposals from 1954 for a major road along the valley, local residents began to organise to lobby for the protection of the bushland. This ultimately led to the declaration of the park and construction of the EastLink tunnels. Community groups have also played a significant role in volunteer maintenance activities in areas now in the park and in the Yarran Dheran Reserve.

3.4 Landscape

The park is situated at the point where Mullum Mullum Creek turns sharply northwards to flow through a steep sided gorge which dissects the higher ground occupied by residential areas. Of geomorphological interest, this feature is an example of river capture. The rapidly eroding headwaters of Mullum Mullum Creek, originally located near this point, intercepted the eastward flowing Heatherdale Creek to form a new watercourse.

The distinctive incised and forested gorge of the park contributes significantly to the scenic amenity of the area. It provides a scenic bushland backdrop at treetop level when viewed from surrounding residential areas. On the valley bottom, Mullum Mullum Creek flows over rocky outcrops shaded by tall forest, providing a restful contrast with the developed urban landscapes near the park.

“The development of culturally

sensitive management strategies,

in Melbourne’s parks and reserves,

is considered vital to Wurundjeri

people”, (Wurundjeri Tribe Land &

Compensation Cultural Heritage

Council Incorporated – 2010).


“Week to week, month to month,

year to year, we get to see how the

bush changes: when different plant

species flower, how much rain we’ve

had and how high the Mullum

Mullum has risen. We are

sometimes lucky enough to hear the

Powerful Owl on night rides, and in

the daytime the lorikeets and ducks

in breeding season are a favourite.

We know when the rabbits are bad

or when the foxes are desperate for

a feed. So you see, mountain biking

is not just a physical thing, it is as

much about the vegetation, the

environment, as it is about the bit of

dirt you ride on” (Mitcham resident

and mountain biker

– 2010).

The scenic values of the creek have been adversely affected by the presence of litter (such as plastic bags, metal items and concrete) which has been washed downstream over many years or dumped in the creek. The appearance of the creek is expected to improve following the river improvement being conducted by Melbourne Water.

Due to stream bank erosion and channel widening processes occurring in Mullum Mullum Creek, bank stability is a consideration for maintenance of streamside infrastructure in the park.

Part of the park and adjacent areas of Donvale are covered by an Environmental Significance Overlay under the City of Manningham’s Planning Scheme which is intended to protect the landscape and native vegetation values of the area.

Groups of mature Radiata Pine trees form a prominent landscape feature in parts of the park. However, these trees are also a seed source for pine invasion of bushland.

3.5 Visitor Experience and Recreation

Past Experiences and Uses

Prior to its establishment, the area that is now the park was used by local residents for relaxation, walking, dog walking, nature appreciation, wildlife observation and mountain bike riding. This occurred on a network of informal trails and old vehicle tracks which could be accessed from suburban roads, Yarran Dheran Reserve and Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex.

As well as participation in environmental maintenance activities, community groups have been active in providing interpretation and awareness activities in both Yarran Dheran Reserve and areas now in the park. The Mullum Mullum Festival was initiated by community members in 1995 to highlight the threat posed to the bushland by the proposed freeway development. The Festival has continued as a community organised event held approximately annually over several days in spring or autumn, assisted by funding from Manningham, Whitehorse and Maroondah City Councils. It comprises a series of nature walks, natural and cultural heritage talks and other activities and displays over several days in varying locations along the length of Mullum Mullum Creek. Recent Festivals have included activities led by Indigenous people.

The bushland now in the park has also been used by schools and other educational institutions for environmental education activities.

The Future

The park is expected to be used primarily by the local community in the future. The surrounding local government areas (which are expected to experience low to moderate population growth to 2026) are relatively well supplied with a variety of open space reserves, outdoor recreational facilities and trails. In the longer term, there may be some increased local use of the park as a result of higher population densities as Ringwood is developed as a Central Activity District and, to a lesser extent, medium density housing development in Mitcham.

Visitor experiences and opportunities in the park will continue to be based on the natural, cultural and landscape values of the park and adjacent reserves. Continued provision of sustainable nature based recreation for the local community and recognition of their attachment to the bushland area will be important objectives. The various recreational uses (predominately walking, cycling and dog walking)

12 Key Values —

will need to be managed to minimise adverse impacts on park values and the potential for conflicts between different park users.

The EastLink Trail has introduced a new recreational element to the area. Due to its connections to the wider trail network, it attracts non local cyclists as well as a variety of local users. Provision of safe and enjoyable experiences on the trail in keeping with the natural values of the park will also be a focus of management.

Key experiences and opportunities, and related management issues are described below.

Visitor Access and Facilities

The Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex forms a natural gateway to the park and a stopping point on the EastLink Trail.

The EastLink Trail may attract more non local visitors to spend time in the park, possibly as a stopping point in a longer trail journey. Except at Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, there is limited scope for development of accessible visitor facilities along this part of the EastLink Trail due to the steepness of the narrow valley.

In the short to medium term, extensive new day use facilities are not likely to be needed in the park. The car parking, picnic and toilet facilities at Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex are easily accessible to local visitors and users of the EastLink Trail. Picnic facilities are also available nearby at Yarran Dheran Reserve and Antonio Park.

A number of other informal entry points provide access to the park for residents of the surrounding suburbs. There is no appropriate access route into the park from the south (Tarrangower Avenue).

EastLink Trail

Since completion of the EastLink Trail in 2008, the park has attracted a range of cyclists such as family groups, slow cycling sightseeing groups and individuals, experienced cyclists on longer journeys, and some cycle training groups. The visitor experience for all park users could be improved through better management of the interface between the trail and other uses.

Construction of some short sections of trail within the park is required to complete linkages between the EastLink Trail and the other shared use paths along Mullum Mullum Creek. The proposed Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park shared use path being constructed by the City of Manningham will end near Beckett Road and a short link to the EastLink Trail within the park is proposed.

Other Walking and Cycling Opportunities

The informal trails in the park are important to continue the bushland experiences valued by local residents. The trails also provide access to the park and the EastLink Trail from local suburbs. In recent years, soil erosion and vegetation damage along trails has increased with the growth in mountain biking in the area. Management of mountain biking is now required given the size of the park, the high natural values of the area and the level of pedestrian use.

Riding BMX bikes and construction of jumps and circuits by local youth is also occurring in the park. There are no nearby BMX facilities. Management of this activity is required to prevent damage of significant vegetation and wildlife habitat, soil erosion and weed invasion.

Dog Walking

Management of dog walking in the park is required to both enable a pre-existing use to continue and to protect natural values. The presence of dogs can disrupt wildlife feeding and breeding, and dog faeces can introduce additional nutrients which promote weed growth. As trails pass through several land tenures over short distances, a consistent and agreed approach is required on the conditions of dog walking between Parks Victoria and Manningham, Whitehorse and Maroondah City Councils.

Continue to encourage and support the Mullum Mullum Festival.

Educational activities.

Interpretation and Education

An integrated approach to management of Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex and Yarran Dheran Reserve will open up opportunities for interpretation encompassing the range of natural and cultural values across the three reserves. This could include interpretative signage and use of facilities at the Cottage and Yarran Dheran for talks, functions and educational programs run by schools and other institutions. The existing interpretation provided by volunteers at the Cottage and Yarran Dheran could provide a basis for interpretation activities such as occasional guided walks.

Continuation of the Mullum Mullum Festival would also provide a focus for development of park awareness.

Community Stewardship

There are several existing Friends and volunteer groups with an interest in, and knowledge of, the park and surrounding area, such as the Yarran Dheran Friends and Friends of Schwerkolt Cottage.

With generational changes occurring in these community groups involved in the area, it is important to encourage education and park stewardship among younger generations and new park users.

Visitors enjoying the EastLink Trail.

14 Key Values —

Vision

Mullum Mullum Park will be an exemplar of community stewardship in an urban bushland, managed to enhance its natural environment, and valued by the community for its significant natural values, ongoing connection to the community and low impact recreational opportunities that enable quiet enjoyment and understanding of the environment by current and future generations.

4.1 Guiding Principles

This Vision will be achieved through the following guiding principles:

• Protection of high conservation values including ecological, archaeological, geological, landscape and cultural values;

• Enhancement of strategic habitat links and the long term viability and integrity of ecosystems through the creation of a continuous riparian corridor;

• Compliance with relevant legislative obligations relating to the protection of threatened flora and fauna, ecological vegetation communities, and management of cultural heritage and recreation values in partnership with relevant agencies and the community;

• Provision of visitor and recreation opportunities consistent with the park’s values and capacity;

• Creation of continuous regional shared use trail links with local connections and provision of opportunities to enhance pedestrian and cycling experiences;

Quarry Rd Bridge.

Promotion of the opportunities for residents and the broader community to experience and interpret the values of the park.

• Promotion of the opportunities for residents and the broader community to experience and interpret the values of the park and to be involved in planning and management of the park; and

• Maximisation of long term conservation and recreation outcomes through sustainable management partnerships (public and private) and effective collaboration between stakeholders.

16 Vision —

Strategic Directions

5.1 Natural and Cultural Values

The following strategic directions have been identified for natural and cultural values:

Natural Environment

• Implement best practice sustainable management of the terrestrial and riparian environments to ensure conservation of biodiversity, significant flora and fauna species and communities, and habitat corridors;

• Enhance and extend remnant vegetation communities and fauna habitat along Mullum Mullum Creek, providing a habitat link between areas of highest conservation values;

• Plan and implement effective use of fire for ecological management and hazard reduction;

• Adopt a holistic approach to environmental, weed, pest and fire management in the park and adjoining areas through integrated management with other agencies and local government;

• Provide managed access for visitors to appreciate the significant values, learn about natural values and processes and experience tranquillity in a natural setting; and

• Protect natural values by providing for bicycle riding and dog walking on specific trails designated for these purposes.

Cultural Heritage

• Recognise and protect archaeologically sensitive areas; and

• Consider opportunities for cultural heritage interpretation within the park in collaboration with relevant Indigenous communities and heritage groups.

Landscape

Enhance and extend remnant vegetation communities and fauna habitat along Mullum Mullum Creek.

Focus recreation in the park on the EastLink Trail and linkages to the broader trail network.

• Recognise the critical value of the park as a remnant natural area that has survived the development of the surrounding suburban landscape; and

• Protect the landscape values of the park in consultation with local government, the local community and visitors.


The following strategic directions have been identified for visitor experiences and recreation:

Recreation Opportunities

• Recognise the importance of the area to the local community, schools and other visitors for recreational enjoyment in a natural setting;

• Provide for sustainable nature based recreation and educational opportunities within a natural landscape setting, while ensuring protection and enhancement of the park’s natural, cultural and landscape values;

18 Strategic Directions —

• Focus recreation in the park on the EastLink Trail and linkages to the broader trail network with low impact dispersed use associated with access from nearby residential areas;

• Work with Whitehorse City Council on development of the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex precinct as a visitor gateway for both the park and the Cottage Complex;

• Monitor visitor use to determine longer term recreational and infrastructure needs;

• Work with Whitehorse City Council on achieving an integrated management and community engagement process for the park, Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and Yarran Dheran Reserve including consideration of common branding, signage and orientation information for the visitor precincts and corridors;

• Permit dogs on lead only on the EastLink Trail and selected trails in the park that will enable dog walkers to access the EastLink Trail from local suburbs; and

• Investigate opportunities for a sustainable mountain bike trail and a sustainable BMX facility in the park.

Trail Access and Use

• Conduct further planning and investigations to provide direction

for: o managing shared uses on the EastLink Trail;

o creation of a continuous regional shared path network connecting the EastLink Trail, the Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park shared use path and the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail;

o rationalisation of trails within the park to a network comprising the EastLink Trail, selected trails for dog walking and bicycle riding from key residential areas, and selected low impact bushland walking trails, and;

o maintaining appropriate access to the park from surrounding residential communities.

Information, Interpretation and Education

• Provide improved and consistent interpretation aimed at fostering appreciation and understanding of the significant values of the park and the surrounding area, including Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and Yarran Dheran Reserve; and

• Encourage appropriate educational use and interpretation of park values.

5.3 Community Awareness and Involvement

The following strategic directions have been identified for community awareness and involvement:

• Encourage community stewardship through partnerships with volunteer, recreation, community and Indigenous groups, schools, institutions and local government in park environmental management, interpretation and education programs;

• Develop collaborative partnerships with the relevant Indigenous communities and groups to reflect their knowledge and aspirations in management of the park;

Opportunities for engagement of the community and stakeholders in ongoing use and management of the trail system.

Park Volunteers.

Develop cooperative arrangements with other agencies for the management of adjoining land and facilities.

• Develop collaborative partnerships with community and recreation groups in relation to restoration and management of the park;

• In collaboration with Manningham, Whitehorse and Maroondah City Councils and local community groups, encourage the wider community to become more aware of the park and appreciative of its significant values and its benefits for community health and wellbeing;

• Educate the community on access and other requirements for protection of the values and sensitive environments located within the park; and

• Educate the community on public safety issues and potential risks.

5.4 Management Partnerships

The following strategic directions have been identified for management partnerships:

• Plan and develop the park in partnership with Manningham, Whitehorse and Maroondah City Councils, Melbourne Water, Department of Sustainability and Environment, ConnectEast, and other relevant agencies;

• In developing the park, ensure existing management arrangements are respected and encourage cooperative partnerships, which draw on the range of expertise and access to various funding avenues of each organisation; and

• Develop cooperative arrangements with other agencies for the management of adjoining land and facilities, including formal arrangements for the management of the EastLink Trail, easements, emergency access and the environmental management of Mullum Mullum Creek.

20 Strategic Directions —

21Creek Downstream Reserve

Key Actions

6.1 Overview

The expectation is that development and management of the park will concentrate initially on protecting natural and cultural values at highest risk, addressing existing recreation needs and developing key partnership and cooperative arrangements.

Parks Victoria will be the lead agency on projects which are located on Parks Victoria managed land. Other agencies will be involved in the actions as required. The key responsible agency for each action is identified in bold text.

CE ConnectEast

CFA Country Fire Authority

MCC Manningham City Council

MrCC Maroondah City Council

MFB Metropolitan Fire

Brigade MW Melbourne

Water

PV Parks Victoria

WCC Whitehorse City Council

Develop and implement complementary weed and pest management program.

Monitor the condition of fauna and fauna habitat.

Timing for implementation of actions is indicated as follows:

H High priority, 1 to 5 years

M Medium term implementation

L Long term implementation

6.2 Natural Environment

• Develop and implement complementary weed and pest management and environmental rehabilitation programs in conjunction with managers of adjacent areas and the community (PV, MW, CE, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H);

• Monitor the condition of significant vegetation and implement protection and enhancement programs in conjunction with managers of adjacent areas and the community (PV, MW, CE, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H);

22 Key Actions —

• Monitor the condition of fauna and fauna habitat and implement protection and enhancement programs in conjunction with managers of adjacent areas and the community (PV, MW, CE, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H);

• Conduct ecological burns, where necessary, for regeneration of areas of Valley Heathy Forest and other areas as identified (PV, DSE, MFB, CFA) (H);

• Conduct integrated bushfire management planning for the park including fuel hazard reduction measures, in conjunction with fire authorities, local government councils, other relevant agencies and the local community (PV, MW, CE, MCC, WCC, MrCC, MFB, CFA) (H);

• Monitor erosion and conduct necessary erosion control measures on trails and areas of construction or rehabilitation activities (PV, MW, CE) (H);

• Collaborate with Melbourne Water in environmental improvement works along Mullum Mullum Creek (PV, MW) (H);

• Develop and implement arrangements for monitoring environmental condition and the impacts of climate change and if necessary make changes in management practices to protect the environmental quality of the park (PV, MW) (M);

• Protect environmental values through restriction of dog walking to designated trails and requiring dog faeces to be removed from the park (PV) (H);

• Require dog walkers to comply with relevant local laws (PV, MCC, MrCC, WCC) (H); and

• Install signage to discourage the feeding of birds (PV) (H).

Cultural Heritage

• Develop and implement a Cultural Heritage Management Plan for the park (PV) (H); and

• Develop appropriate park signage and interpretation on cultural heritage, in conjunction with Indigenous and community groups (PV, WCC) (M).

Landscape

• Liaise with the Manningham City Council and local residents on the management of mature radiata pine trees in the park (PV, MCC) (M).



Recreation Opportunities

• Consider the development of a master plan for the Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and Yarran Dheran visitor precincts for joint visitor access, day use facilities, interpretation and other visitor activities related to the park and the Cottage (WCC, PV) (H);

Creation of a continuous regional shared path network connecting the EastLink Trail, the Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park shared use path and the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail.

Educate the community on access and other requirements for protection of the values and sensitive environments located within the park.

• Investigate integrated management and use of visitor infrastructure and facilities between the park, Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and Yarran Dheran Reserve, including Yarran Dheran visitor information centre (PV, WCC) (H-M);

• Monitor visitor use at key points, including the EastLink Trail, Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and visitor access points (PV, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H-M); and

• Investigate upgrading the carpark at Quarry Road (PV, WCC) (M).

Trail Access and Use

• Develop a trail master plan and design guidelines (PV, CE, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H) that

address: o visitor access and linkages between the park and Yarran Dheran Reserve;

o low key local access points to the park for local residents;

o options to enhance visitor safety through traffic calming measures, messages and other approaches to encourage slow cycling on the EastLink Trail through the park;

o options for the construction of a linking trail between the EastLink Trail and the proposed Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park shared use path at Beckett Road;

o rationalisation of the trail network and uses in the park including clarifying the trails available for dog walking, bicycle riding and walking;

o potential for a sustainable designated mountain bike trail through the park and nearby areas, in consultation with user groups and the local community;

o feasibility of a small, sustainable BMX facility on a disturbed site in the north west of the park, in consultation with user groups and the local community; and

o opportunities for engagement of the community and stakeholders in ongoing use and management of the trail system.

Information, Interpretation and Education

• Provide information and education to the local community and visitors on new trail and park use conditions (PV) (H);

• Develop a signage and interpretation plan for the park in conjunction with management partners, other stakeholders and user groups (PV, MCC, WCC, MrCC, MW) (H-M);

• Develop an integrated approach to trail signage and management with other agencies (PV, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (M);

• Work with schools, educational institutions and the community to promote the benefits of the park for education programs and health and community wellbeing (PV, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (M); and

24 Key Actions —

• Continue to encourage and support the Mullum Mullum Festival (MCC, WCC, MrCC, PV, MW) (H).

6.4 Community Awareness and Involvement

• Liaise with local residents to improve awareness and appreciation of park values, health benefits of using parks, and management actions, including weeds, management of areas adjoining residences, and dog walking (PV) (H);

• Liaise with user groups and local youth to improve awareness and appreciation of park values and management actions, including in relation to mountain bike riding and BMX bikes and potential involvement in development and maintenance of trails (PV) (H);

• Establish an advisory group for the park comprised of representatives of relevant management agencies and local government (PV, CE, MW, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H);

• Investigate formation of a reference group for the park comprised of representatives of a range of user groups and the local community and chaired by Parks Victoria (PV, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H); and

• Investigate formation of a Friends Group for the park with an emphasis on recruiting members from younger generations (PV, MW, MCC, WCC, MrCC) (H).

6.5 Management Partnerships

• Develop arrangements between Parks Victoria and Whitehorse City Council for cooperative environmental and visitor management between the park, Schwerkolt Cottage and Museum Complex, and Yarran Dheran Reserve (WCC, PV) (H);

• Develop cooperative arrangements between Parks Victoria and Manningham City Council for management of Huggins Reserve, which is surrounded by Mullum Mullum Park (MCC, PV) (H);

• Develop an agreement between Parks Victoria and ConnectEast to ensure that management and maintenance of the EastLink Trail is compatible with park values and visitor experience objectives (PV, CE) (H);

• Develop arrangements with ConnectEast and other relevant agencies and local government for emergency and other required access in the park, including to the EastLink tunnels (PV, CE, other agencies) (H); and

• Investigate links with educational and research institutions and community groups to assist in environmental monitoring and research within the park (PV) (M).

Cooperative management.


References

• Australian Platypus Conservancy (2011) Platypus in Urban Areas, viewed 17 August 2011,<www.platypus.asn.au>.

• Botanicus Australia (1998) Eastern Freeway Extension between Springvale Road and Ringwood: Flora and Fauna Assessment. Report to VicRoads.

• Botanicus Australia (1999a) Eastern Freeway Extension between Springvale Road and Ringwood: Flora and Fauna Assessment, Supplement No. 1. Report to VicRoads.

• Botanicus Australia (1999b) Eastern Freeway Extension between Springvale Road and Ringwood: Flora and Fauna Assessment, Supplement No. 2. Report to VicRoads.

• Botanicus Australia (2000) Eastern Freeway Extension between Springvale Road and Ringwood: Flora and Fauna Assessment, Supplement No. 14. Report to VicRoads.

• Department of Planning and Community Development (DPDC) (no date) Suburbs in Time (1981 – 2006) (Census data for Melbourne suburbs, sourced on www.dse.vic.gov.au).

• Department of Planning and Community Development (DPDC) (2008a) Victoria in Future 2008: Victorian State Government Population and Household Projections 2006-2036. Detailed Data Files for Local Government Areas – Metropolitan Melbourne (Sourced on www.dse.vic.gov.au).

• Department of Planning and Community Development (DPDC) (2008b) Melbourne 2030: a planning update – Melbourne @ 5 million.

• Everett, C (1998) An archaeological investigation of the Eastern Freeway Extension, Springvale Road to Ringwood. Report to VicRoads. du Cros and Associates, Archaeological and Heritage Consultants.

• Friends of Mullum Mullum Valley website, http://home.vicnet.net.au/~fommv.

• Manningham City Council (2004) Manningham Open Space Strategy.

• Manningham City Council (2008a) Community Profile. Prepared by .id consulting pty ltd. (Sourced on www.manningham.vic.gov.au).

• Manningham City Council (2008b) Population and Household Forecasts. Prepared by .id consulting pty ltd. (Sourced on www.manningham.vic.gov.au).

• Manningham City Council (2008c) Mullum Mullum Creek Linear Park Stage 3 Management Plan.

• Maroondah City Council (no date), Maroondah Community Profile. Prepared by The Public Practice Pty Ltd. (Sourced on www.maroondah.vic.gov.au).

• Maroondah City Council (2005) Making the Best of Open Space: an Open Space Strategy for the City of Maroondah.

• Maroondah City Council (2008) Population & Household Projections (Sourced on www.maroondah.vic.gov.au).

• Maroondah City Council (2009) Ringwood Transit City North West Residential Precinct. (Sourced on www.maroondah.vic.gov.au).

• Melbourne Water (2007) Port Phillip and Westernport Regional River Health Strategy, East Melbourne.

• Thompson Berrill Landscape Design Pty Ltd (2007) Whitehorse Open Space Strategy.

26 References —

• Whitehorse City Council (2008a) Community Profile. (Prepared by .id consulting pty ltd.) (Sourced on www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au).

• Whitehorse City Council (2008b) Population and Household Forecasts. Prepared by id consulting pty ltd. (Sourced on www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au).

• Yarran Dheran website, http://home.vicnet.net.au/~yarrand/


Appendix 1 - Ecological Vegetation Classes in Mullum Mullum Park

Valley Heathy Forest

In Mullum Mullum Park, Valley Heathy Forest occurs in several locations and aspects. It is characterised by:

• an upper canopy of Red Stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), Bundy (Eucalyptus goniocalyx) and Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora);

• smaller trees such as Cherry Ballart (Exocarpos cupressiformis), Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata) and Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon);

• a varied heathy shrub layer, including Common Heath (Epacris impressa), Common Flat-pea (Platylobium obtusangulum), Grey Parrot-pea (Dillwynia cinerascens), Common Beard-heath (Leucopogon virgatus), Common Correa (Correa reflexa) and Dusty Miller (Spyridium parvifolium); and

• grass and herb species, including Silvertop Wallaby Grass (Joycea pallida), Wattle Mat-rush (Lomandra filiformis), Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra), Black-anther Flax-lily (Dianella revoluta), Milkmaids (Burchardia umbellata), Tall Sundew (Drosera peltata ssp. auriculata) and Scented Sundew (Drosera whittakeri ssp. aberrans).

Areas of this EVC also occur nearby in Yarran Dheran Reserve and Antonio Park. Valley Heathy Forest is classified as endangered in the Gippsland Plains Bioregion.

Riparian Forest

In Mullum Mullum Park, Riparian Forest occurs along Mullum Mullum Creek. It is characterised by:

• an upper canopy of Swamp Gum (Eucalyptus ovata) and Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis);

• small trees and shrubs such as Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa), Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata), Prickly Currant-bush (Coprosma quadrifida), Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) and Victorian Christmas-bush (Prostanthera lasianthos); and

• an understorey of variable Sword-sedge (Lepidosperma laterale), Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia), Weeping Grass (Microleana stipoides var. stipoides), Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia spp.) and Sword Tussock-grass (Poa ensiformis).

Valley Grassy Forest and Herb-rich Foothill Forest

Elements of Valley Grassy Forest and Herb-rich Foothill Forest are contained in vegetation in the north west of Mullum Mullum Park (on and near the former Petty’s Land). It is characterised by:

• an upper canopy of Narrow-leaf Peppermint (Eucalyptus radiata) and Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua);

• smaller trees, including Cherry Ballart (Exocarpos cupressiformis), Lightwood (Acacia implexa) and Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata);

• a shrub layer of Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa) and Prickly Tea-tree (Leptospermum continentale); and

28 Appendix 1 - Ecological Vegetation Classes in Mullum Mullum Park —

• a grass and herb layer, including Veined Spear-grass (Austrostipa rudis), Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia ssp.), Chocolate Lily (Arthropodium strictum s.l.), and Common Raspwort (Gonocarpus tetragynus).

Valley Grassy Forest is classified as vulnerable in the Gippsland Plains Bioregion and is considered to be depleted across its entire range, while Herb-rich Foothill Forest is a more common vegetation class.

Swampy Riparian Complex

Swampy Riparian Complex occurs along Walert Creek. It is composed of a shrub layer underlain by ferns, sedges and rushes. Swampy Riparian Complex is classified as endangered in the Gippsland Plains Bioregion.


This Strategic Management Plan for Mullum Mullum Park is approved for implementation. Its purpose isto identify key actions which will direct the future management of the Park.

A Draft Mullum Mullum Strategic Directions Plan was published in July 2010. Sixteen submissions were received and have been considered in preparing this approved Strategic Management Plan.

For further information on this plan, please contact:

Chief Ranger North Melbourne District Parks VictoriaWesterfolds Park Fitzsimons Lane Templestowe VIC 3106Phone: 13 19 63

CopiesThis plan may be downloaded from the Parks Victoria website www.parks.vic.gov.auCopies of the plan may be purchased for $8.80 (including GST) from:

Parks VictoriaLevel 10 / 535 Bourke StreetMelbourne VIC 3000Phone: 13 1963

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