Ocean Grove native plant walk, James Loves Lee and Fully Reserves

Ocean Grove native plant walk, James Loves Lee and Fully Reserves created by Jane - Victoria Walks

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Summary

If you're an Australian native-plant lover this is a fantastic, inspirational and peaceful place to walk. We're almost sorry to share the secret!

Description

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We stumbled upon this lovely, secluded walk a few years ago and now it is a must-visit each time we're in Ocean Grove.

Early morning or evening is a great time to walk through these reserves that follow a watercourse through the Ocean Grove suburbia. Click the 'Find Out More' link above to hear the birdsong we captured!

At first we imagined City of Greater Geelong landscaping staff had planted all the areas out, but then we bumped into a local who said she had been slowly working on the gardens here for years, sourcing plants from Victoria and elsewhere around Australia to see which would thrive.

Thanks to this local for creating such a beautiful place for others to walk and enjoy!

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Points of Interest

1. Beautiful native plant vignettes

An Ocean Grove local began planting out this area many years ago, collecting plants from around Australia to create a gorgeous, publicly-accessible garden. Please respect her work and stick to paths.

2. Enter via Shell Road

There are many entrances to the reserves but here is an easy way in, just east of a major shopping area off Shell Road. Take care if crossing Shell Road near the roundabout.

3. Bridge over waterway, Bellarine ward parks

Ocean Grove is in the City of Greater Geelong, and is the largest town within the Bellarine ward. Click this link for other parks in the area.

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4. Interesting native plants; which can you identify?

If you're a native-plant lover, have some fun trying to spot plants you're familiar (or not familiar) with! Some have labels at the base, like this Acacia Glaucoptera.

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5. Roadway

This is a low-traffic area, but still take care as you cross Parkview Avenue to access Fully Reserve.

6. Picnic area

Rest your weary legs or unfurl the picnic basket. There are quite a few shaded seating areas, but this is one of the few picnic tables on this walk.

7. Layers of plantings

The gardener has taken care to plant in a way that allows you to see all the plants and allowed each species to thrive.

8. Dogs on-lead?

We did not see any signage about dogs. While there are many open, grassy areas we imagine it is best to keep dogs on-lead to keep them from ruining plants or chasing native fauna and birdlife.