Summary

A very cute suburban come peri-urban conservation reserve that shows what the Dandenong Ranges' foothills were once like. Great for wildflowers in season, it includes a small retarding basin.

Description

This is a bushland / wetland gem in a pocket. Situated at the bottom of Bungalook Creek where it runs into a small retarding basin, the reserve boasts a great variety of local indigenous species and seasonal wildflowers.

As mapped here, to extend your walk you can also head upstream along Bungalook Creek toward Liverpool Rd. This is a somewhat interesting extension. However, note it is quite a narrow strip between some substantial properties that terminates before you reach Liverpool Rd. You have to return the way you came - so you might consider it not to be worth your while.

The woodland canopy is composed of Stringbark, Messmate, Peppermint and Swamp Gums. The middle storey varies from a dense shrub layer to sedges, grasses and open woodland. There are at least 15 Wildflower, Lily and Orchid species to be observed.

Other walks in the area
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
Wombolano Bushland Reserve
Quarry Reserve Loop, Upper Ferntree Gully
Dorset Recreation Trail

Amenities
Waterway
Walking tracks
Flora and fauna habitat

Cautions
Open water
Soft shoulders
Limbs may fall
Embankments
Uneven ground
No potable water
Slippery surfaces
Subject to flooding
Surfaces vary
Snakes may be active
Be mindful to keep within the Reserve

Restrictions
Dogs must be leashed & under control at all times
No firearms
No hunting
No camping
Take rubbish with you
No firewood collection
Native flora and fauna are protected
No 4WD or motor bike access

2555 Views

Points of Interest

1. Car parking.

There are three access points to the Reserve. Terredan Drive (pictured) presents the a very attractive drive to a cul de sac. There is limited room for parking. Chandra Drive offers more space.

2. The Tracks.

The gravel surfaces are generally smooth and easy to follow. The Reserve is not large enough to get lost in.

3. Muddy when wet.

There is evidence some use the Reserve as a mountain bike course. This means some sections get churned and muddy.

4. Seasonal Wildflowers.

An excellent range of indigenous species and seasonal Wildflowers are represented across the Reserve. These Milkmaids were observed in abundance during November.

5. Bungalook Creek.

The creek itself is a small and narrow waterway that drains into the retarding basin.

6. The Retarding Basin.

The basin itself is filled with Cumbingi Bulrushes. There isn't much water to be seen, but may be during high flow events.

7. Retarding Basin opposite end.

Lined with treed bushland, it makes for a pretty spot.

8. Upstream.

You can walk upstream along the creek. Large rocks have been placed in situ for crossings. However, there is no exit to Liverpool Rd. You have to return the way you came.

9. Interesting sights along the creek line.

On the other hand, there are some interesting sights along the creek line.

10. Stands of Melaleuca

These looked spectacular in full bloom.

11. Sprays of Leptospernum.

The Ti-tree were also looking lovely.

12. Sedges and Flax Lilies.

There is a diversity of vegetation populations.

13. Grasses and Eucalypts.

The open woodland of the conservation area appears to be in good condition.

Features

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river