Summary

Take the Growling Grass Frog Loop through this 62-hectare Bellarine reserve, one of the largest areas of native bushland and ephemeral wetlands in the Peninsula.

Description

This reserve was allocated to the conservation of indigenous plants and wildlife including the southern brown bandicoot, which has been recorded in the reserve. It is now home to 55 bird species (including birds of prey) and six frog species, including the endangered growling grass frog, which can grow up to 5-10cm in size as an adult.

There are four separate loop walks you can do within the reserve. All are a similar length. While some areas of the reserve are still subject to weed infestation, volunteer and land managers are gradually winning the battle with large areas of the open woodland now planted out with indigenous species including kangaroo and lomandra grasses and shrubs.

The best time to hear the frogs is early in the morning or dusk, or when wet and from winter to early summer.

The Airstrip Circuit has more trees, so if it's a hot day you may prefer the shade of the 80-year-old Manna gums that line the disused airstrip.

If this walk has piqued your interest, connect with the Landcare volunteers who care for the reserve at their Facebook page.

There are no toilets within the reserve.

No dogs permitted in the flora and fauna reserve.

Please stick to the established paths to help prevent the spread of weeds.

You may wish to use mosquito repellent in summer, especially at dusk.

Here is a link to a PDF brochure produced by Bellarine Bayside (Coastal Management) about the trails in the Reserve, on which much of the information in this map is sourced. A paper copy is usually available at the start point.

2198 Views

Points of Interest

1. Entry gate

You can start this walk from any entry point but this map begins at the main entry off Point Richards Road. It's a good walk to do after spending time on the beach.

2. Reeds

It is easy to see why frogs and other critters enjoy this landscape. Lots of places for them to hide! Please stick to the tracks.

3. Alternate Reserve entry/exit (Traum St)

You can enter the Reserve via Traum Street if you're heading down from the residential areas.

4. Manna Gum

Here is one of the shaded parts of the reserve. Look out for signage to tell you about the species.

5. Trees and bees

Can you hear some buzzing? Some bees have moved in (see the nesting boxes)?

6. Continue right

At this crossroads turn right so you don't end back out on the road.

7. Right again

And right again to stay on Growling Grass frog loop.

8. Picnic shelter

Enjoy a cup of tea with friends at the end of your walk.. The structure is built from 100-year-old wharf pylons,built in 2015 with funds from Bellarine Bayside.

Find out more

Features

Picnic spot

Pram friendly

Nature trail