A new conservation reserve has been established in Melbourne’s north to protect critically endangered plants and animals, including Grassy Eucalypt Woodland and the Golden Sun Moth.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio officially opened the Banda Bail Reserve in Mickleham today, which will be managed by Hume City Council and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Aboriginal Corporation.

Banda Bail means ‘Sleepy Red Gum’ and is the name given by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung elders. The reserve will enable residents, visitors and future generations to learn about and appreciate this part of Country for years to come.

The 4.9-hectare Banda Bail Reserve was created under the Melbourne Strategic Assessment program which delivers on the Andrews Labor Government’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy, enabling long-term protection of biodiversity in growth corridors.

The Melbourne Strategic Assessment program is creating more than 20,000 hectares of prime conservation areas across our outer metropolitan suburbs, equivalent to more than 30 times the size of the Melbourne CBD or 10,000 MCGs, that will provide a haven for threatened species and protect some of the last remaining sections of endangered ecosystems in Victoria.

Banda Bail Reserve will contribute to Melbourne Strategic Assessment projects target to protect 80 per cent of Grassy Eucalypt Woodland within the urban growth boundary. The reserve includes a conservation area for the endangered Matted Flax-lily and critically endangered Golden Sun Moth.

For more information on the program visit: www.msa.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Establishing the Banda Bail Reserve will help safeguard our unique animals and plants and provide Victorians and visitors with space to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.”

“This is a wonderful example of our Government, local council, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and urban developers working together to create better environmental outcomes.”

Quote attributable to Member for Yuroke Ros Spence

“This reserve is terrific for the local community – giving everyone a space to get out an enjoy the natural environment and protecting our precious animals and plants.”

Quote attributable to Hume City Council Mayor, Councillor Carly Moore

“We thank all our partners, including the Victorian Government, who have worked to deliver this reserve; a site that will allow residents living in the growth area of Mickleham and surrounds to learn about Country.”