Mitchell Shire has many wonderful nature reserves—some small, some large, but all with a rich diversity of plants and animals on full display during spring.
Earlier this year, Mitchell Shire Council collaborated with community groups and organisations to create a brochure with detailed maps and information about the nature reserves that are open for everyone to enjoy and explore.
The Natural Treasures project was led by local ecologist and BEAM volunteer Dr Peter Mitchell.
The Natural Treasures booklet was recently updated, and now lists 36 public reserves in the Mitchell Shire. A reserve in Kilmore, Wallan, and Seymour have been chosen for school holiday events, including nature walks and family activities to introduce all ages to the wonderful diversity of nature in the region.
The activities will be run by local volunteers with lots of knowledge and experience of the natural world, and with support from the environmental staff at Mitchell Shire Council.
Mr Mitchell said that each of these ‘natural treasures,’ have different environments—from wet forests to dry woodlands—and have different but lovely arrays of plants.
“Mid-spring is the best time to see them all,” he said.
On Sunday, September 29, BEAM will hold a nature walk and activities for children at Monument Hill in Kilmore.
On Sunday, October 6, Wallan Environment Group and BEAM will lead an exploration of Hidden Valley Rail Reserve at Lucca Way, Wallan.
On Sunday, October 13, the Management Committee of Seymour Bushland Park and BEAM will organise nature walks and kids’ games in the park.
The events will run from 10am–2.30pm, and morning tea will be provided. Lunch will also be available at the Seymour Bushland Park event.
Copies of the Natural Treasures brochure are available from council’s customer service centres, libraries, and regional visitor centres. For a digital version of the brochure, visit www.beam.org.au/natural-treasures.
To register for the events, visit www.beam.org.au/events or call Peter Mitchell on 0468 795 954.
