WITH the arrival of autumn and the approach of the Easter and ANAC Day holidays, Myrtleford and District Landcare and Sustainability Group members held a working bee on Saturday, 5 April to clean and clear along Happy Valley Creek in the heart of Myrtleford.
Group president Paul Reser said removal of woody weeds, including privet, blackberry, box elder and numerous elm seedlings was the primary objective.
"Areas of long grass along the banks were also trimmed back for easier access," he said.
“While appreciating the majesty and shade of the large elms on site, we also need to care for the many native plantings along the banks that were being overgrown.
“Some natives are remnant, others self-seeded, but a large number have been planted by Landcare over years of effort."
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Mr Reser said the goal is both biodiversity and beautification of the banks of Happy Valley Creek as it flows past the business district of Myrtleford and Jubilee Park, a well-used and valued community asset.
He said the work was done with the cooperation of the Alpine Shire Council (Open Spaces), who facilitated the removal of brush and branches generated by the efforts of volunteers.
EXTENSION OF MOSIAC TRAIL
Mr Reser said that in the meeting of Landcare volunteers that followed the working bee, it was resolved that the group would make the focus of 2025 advocating for the extension of the Mosaic Trail from Rotary Park to the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve along Barwidgee Creek.
"This comes out of a broadscale community consultation process funded by Victorian Landcare in 2024 and the development of a strategic plan covering the riverine areas of Myrtleford," he said.
“We are looking to partner with all levels of government, the Landcare network and and community groups in this effort.”
Mr Reser said the first step will be a feasibility study with Phil Prior (vice-president Myrtleford Landcare) heading up a committee to seek input and funding.
Interested persons should email landcaremyrtleford@gmail.com.
