Barwon Coast trial to restore coastal vegetation

Barwon Coast is undertaking an exciting new trial aimed at restoring coastal vegetation and enhancing biodiversity along the region’s iconic coastline. The trial, which involves the removal of abundant Coast Tea-tree, will create conditions for local indigenous plant species to regenerate and thrive, ultimately supporting a healthier and more resilient coastal ecosystem for future generations.

The trial is part of Barwon Coast’s ongoing commitment to caring for and enhancing the natural environment. By removing the abundant Coast Tea-tree, the goal is to provide space and light for native plant species, allowing them to recover and increase in number. This process will help restore the natural biodiversity of these coastal areas and improve habitat quality for local wildlife.

The trial is supported by a Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) conservation work exemption, granted in mid-February after an application developed with the guidance of a specialist consultant. This exemption recognises the potential environmental benefits of the trial and enables Barwon Coast to proceed with the project, confident in its positive environmental outcomes.

Trial sites

The trial will take place at two carefully selected sites on the Barwon Coast:

• Site 1: Located on the south face of Barwon Bluff, between the coastal path and the beach, near the first beach access stairs on the left-hand side on Bluff Road.
• Site 2: Situated within Barwon Bluff Woodland, near the Barwon Coast Depot just off Bluff Road.

These sites were chosen due to their ecological significance and the presence of native vegetation, including remnant Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs).

You can see maps of site 1 and site 2 at the bottom of this page.

Works expected to begin in mid-June

The works are scheduled to begin in mid-June and are expected to take around four weeks to complete. During this time, the focus will be on removing Coast Tea-tree to allow native plant species to regenerate. This process will encourage the growth of diverse flora and restore the natural balance of these coastal environments.

Consultation with Traditional Owners and conservation groups

Barwon Coast has worked with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and local conservation groups to ensure that the trial aligns with cultural and environmental values. Both groups have expressed their support for the project, recognising its potential to enhance the coastal ecosystem.

Monitoring and future plans

Following the completion of the works, Barwon Coast will closely monitor both sites to assess the trial’s impact on biodiversity and ecosystem health. If successful, the findings will help guide future restoration projects, reinforcing Barwon Coast’s commitment to the long-term care and preservation of native coastal ecosystems.

This trial is a key step in Barwon Coast’s mission to protect and restore the region’s unique coastal environments, ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come.

Maps

Site 1: south face of Barwon Bluff

See the location on Google Maps here.

Site 2: Barwon Bluff Woodland

See the location on Google Maps here.