7 June 2019

Deep Creek and its tributaries south of Darraweit Guim and north of Mickleham provide habitat for several significant species including Platypus, Growling Grass Frog, Southern Brown Toadlet and Swift Parrot.

The deeply incised gorges of the Creek and the grassy woodlands that surround them are iconic Victorian landscapes.  The biodiversity within this landscape is under threat from weed invasion, clearing, urban expansion and pest animals, such as rabbits and foxes.  Weeds and rabbits significantly reduce the capacity for native plants and animals to flourish and regenerate, particularly with the addition of harsher weather extremes in the mix.

The Victorian Government has identified this area as having the potential to enhance and protect important biodiversity assets for future generations and the Port Phillip and Westernport CMA is leading a new project called Deepening Connections, which aims reduce the threats to this area through weed and rabbit control across 6,700 hectares of private land.

Deepening connections works with local landholders undertake the control works and ensure their long-term success. Landholders have been keen to get involved, with interest in the program expressed by landowners already covering more than 50% of the target area.

Project partners include Melbourne Water, Macedon Ranges Shire, Hume City Council, Mitchell Shire, Clarkefield Landcare and Upper Maribyrnong Catchment Group.

The Wurundjeri Tribe Council will manage cultural heritage during works during the project and their Narrap Land Management Team will undertake some of the on-ground works.

Site visits are currently underway and on-ground weed and rabbit control works are anticipated to commence in mid 2019.

Field days focusing on weed and rabbit control, cultural heritage, chemical use and and other education activities will be run throughout the project to strengthen landholder stewardship and the long-term protection of the remnant biodiversity.

The project runs until June 2021 and is supported by the Victorian Government.

Deepening Connections project area