Our group works along the Mechanics Track beside the Olinda Creek on Mount Dandenong.
We are predominantly working in a wet schlerophyll forest or temperate rainforest with Eucalyptus regnans the major tree, a good variety of under-storey plants, many Dicksonia antarctica along the creek banks and an abundance of ivy and holly to contend with.
We want to do what we can on Mount Dandenong to maintain an overall healthy environment and good creek water quality by working on public land adjacent to the Olinda Creek and caring for our private gardens and bush as well.
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Our group works along the Mechanics Track beside the Olinda Creek on Mount Dandenong.
We are predominantly working in a wet schlerophyll forest or temperate rainforest with Eucalyptus regnans the major tree, a good variety of under-storey plants, many Dicksonia antarctica along the creek banks and an abundance of ivy and holly to contend with.
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The group works within its capacity in areas along the Mechanics Track that have a high public visibility.
Regular maintenance is a key aspect of the group’s work, ensuring that sustained and obvious improvements are achieved.
A 90% success rate of the group’s plantings is achieved through both good site preparation and post planting care. The excellent quality of plants used by group is also a determining factor in their success.
The group is supported by Yarra Ranges Council’s Ribbons of Green program. The group’s approach to weed control involves the minimum use of herbicides. Being adjacent to the waterway, the dangers of contaminated run-off into the creek is a concern.
A recent purchase by the group is a hand removal tool specifically designed for sapling removal. Sycamore maple and holly seedlings are prevalent weeds along the Olinda Creek.
Plants are selected for food and habitat for local fauna and are treated to a soaking in seaweed solution prior to planting. The use of weed mats has been very successful in giving plantings a competitive edge.
The past drought meant the death of many trees and under-storey plants although the dead "stag" trees are vital for bird and mammal habitat.
It does mean an alteration in the light levels in the area which gives an added boost to all those invader plants so we see our work as on-going and of great importance to our local environment and celebrate the work of all the volunteers in the Landcare movement.
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We have a working bee along the Mechanics Track held on the second Sunday of every month from 12 noon to 2pm except when cancelled because of unfavorable weather conditions.
There is a complementary afternoon tea at the Café Brunch Mountain after the work.
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Enquiries regarding the group may be directed to olindacreeklcg@gmail.com
or use our contact form below.
