the yarra bend park strategy plan is approved for

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The Yarra Bend Park Strategy Plan is approved for implementation. Its purposeis to direct the management and development of the Park until the Plan isreviewed. A Draft Plan for the area was published in July 1998. The submissionsreceived have been considered in developing this approved Plan.

Copies of the Plan can be obtained from:Parks Victoria378 Cotham RoadKew VIC 3101

For further information on this plan please contact:

Parks Victoria Information CentrePhone 13 1963

YARRA BEND PARK STRATEGY PLAN

April 1999

Y a r r a B e n d P a r kSTRATEGY PLAN

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Crown (State of Victoria) 1998A Victorian Government Publication. This publication is copyright. No part may bereproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act1986.

Published in April 1999 by Parks Victoria378 Cotham Road, Kew, Victoria 3101.

Cover: Studley Park Boathouse

Printed on recycled paper to help save our natural environment


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FO REWORD

Yarra Bend Park is a rich bushland oasiswith contrasting riverine and landscapedsettings, located within the denselypopulated inner suburbs of Melbourne.The winding river valley is the majorfocus of the park, supporting valuableflora and fauna links between the YarraRiver and Merri Creek Valley.Melburnians and tourists alike canexplore a range of experiences withinthe park from seclusion amidst a tranquilriver environment to busy picnic settingsand active sports. The Studley ParkBoathouse and the 18 hole public golfcourse feature prominently asrecreational attractions for many visitors.The park’s Koori and post settlementhistory overlays its environmental andrecreational values enhancing theimportance of this park to both the localand regional population.

Mark StoneChief ExecutiveParks Victoria

This plan provides the strategic directionfor management of the park over thenext 5 years. It identifies the diversevalues and provides a managementframework focused on sustaining theenvironment within a climate ofincreasing visitation and recreationaldemands.

The plan has been developed inconsultation with the community andtheir contribution is gratefullyacknowledged. The continuedparticipation and support of the widercommunity is essential to achieve thelong term aim of ensuring this naturalbushland setting within inner Melbourneis protected and enhanced, andmaintains its current diverse appeal.

The Hon Haddon StoreyChairpersonYarra Bend Trust


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

H I S T O R YIn 1933, the Kew & Heidelberg LandsAct established the Yarra Bend ParkTrust to manage and administer thePark. In March 1997, the Yarra BendPark Trust entered into a ManagementServices Agreement with Parks Victoriato manage the day to day operation ofYarra Bend Park on behalf of the Trustand to update the 1990 ManagementPlan through the preparation of this fiveyear Strategy Plan.

T H E P A R K C O N T E X TThe Park is located some 6km to thenorth-east of central Melbourne, in theheart of densely populated innersuburbs. Yarra Bend Park serves bothlocal and regional open space markets.Within the region, the Park provides aunique setting and experience. Theinformal Australian bushland setting, thepicnic areas and the River allow YarraBend Park to offer a great range ofrecreation experiences within the region.

T H E S T R A T E G Y P L A NThis strategy plan builds on the existing1990 Yarra Bend Park ManagementPlan, which set a clear direction formuch of the Park at the time.

The main objectives of this StrategyPlan are:• to identify key future strategic

directions for the management ofYarra Bend Park;

• to outline key actions which need tobe implemented over the next fiveyears;

• to identify the main strategies for theimplementation of the Strategy Plan.

The Strategy Plan is to be read inconjunction with the EnvironmentalManagement and the HeritageConservation Plans for the Park. Theseprovide significant additional detail inrelation to environmental and culturalheritage matters.

T H E V I S I O NThe vision developed for the parkthrough this plan states:

Yarra Bend Park will be knownthroughout Melbourne as the bushlandpark in the city. It will sustain a diverseenvironment and play an importanthabitat role in the Yarra corridor. Itsvariety of landscape and naturalelements, with the river as its centralfocus, accommodates a range of leisurepursuits from bushland seclusion andisolation, to recreation and organisedsports. Interpreting the Park’s richcultural history and environmentalimportance will add to the many reasonspeople will return to enjoy this regionalparkland.

P A R K V A L U E SValues for each element of the parkhave been established as a basis for thestrategic directions.

E N V I R O N M E N T A L V A L U E S• Yarra Bend Park is a vital link in the

fauna corridors of the Yarra andMerri Creek Valleys.

• Approximately 100 hectares of thePark is covered by indigenousvegetation of varied quality andcontains 117 significant flora species.

• It provides habitat for 193 faunaspecies, including some registeredunder international agreements andsome listed under the Flora andFauna Guarantee Act.

V I S I T O R V A L U E S• The Park offers a diverse and

extensive bushland within only 6kilometres of the city centre.

• It offers a wide range of facilitiescatering for activities from walking,picnicking, cycling and pleasureboating to golfing, arts activities,fishing and organised sports.

L A N D S C A P E V A L U E S• The deep and winding river valley, 12

km long within the Park, providesopportunities for seclusion and asense of isolation from the urbansurrounds.

C U L T U R A L H E R I T A G E V A L U E S• The Park’s rich cultural history, both

Koori and post-settlement, is asignificant element of the Park.

• It is the largest remaining area ofnatural bushland within innerMelbourne.


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P A R K W I D ES T R A T E G I E SStrategies have been developed for thePark in general and for each zone withinthe park. The strategies have beenbased around the established characterof each zone of the park. An overviewof the most significant strategies follows.

R I S K M A N A G E M E N TThe actions and strategies contained inthe 1997 Risk Evaluation andAssessment report will be undertaken toensure a safe environment for Parkvisitors and staff.

T H E E N V I R O N M E N TThe greatest concentration of resourceswill go into protecting and enhancing theareas of important environmental value.The day to day implementation of thesestrategies will be guided by the detailedEnvironmental Management Plan (EMP)for the Park. This EMP addresses:· The River and riparian areas;· Existing vegetation management;· Weed control;· Revegetation;· Pest animals;· Habitat management and

enhancement

Yarra Bend Park contains areas of bothhigh and low environmental values.Consequently, environmentalmanagement strategies reflect theenvironmental values of individual areasand ensure the maintenance of flora andfauna diversity within the Park.Strategies will concentrate on:• improvement of the riparian zone;• species specific habitat

improvements;• revegetation and weed control within

areas of high environmental value;• continuing pest animal control.

V I S I T O R M A N A G E M E N TA 20% increase in visitor numbers to thePark is expected by the year 2007. ThePark can absorb this increase, providedthe additional visitors are directed intoareas where the increased use can beaccommodated without negative impacton the environment.With the implementation of thestrategies contained in this Plan,increases in visitation are expected in:

• the Ovals and Loop Road area,(including Deep Rock and the GolfCourse Reception Centre);

• Andrews Reserve area; and• The Studley Park Reception and Par

3 Golf Course areas.A reduction in the proportion of Parkusers is expected at Studley Park.

The park will focus on the followingvisitor groups to broaden its attraction:• family groups with children;• tourists;• large social groups;• river users; and• diverse cultural groups.

V i s i t o r F a c i l i t i e s• Recent upgrades have seen an

improvement in the Park’s facilitiesbut further work is required toupgrade seating, viewing points anddrinking taps.

• The creation of a significant newpicnic and playground area at DeepRock will relieve pressure on existinghigh use areas in the Park anddiversify the range of visitor facilities.

S p o r t s F a c i l i t i e s• Sports facilities will remain an

element of the Park where demandremains strong and facilities can bemaintained to an acceptablestandard.

• Maintaining the 18 hole golf course toa high standard and maximising itsuse will see its attraction broaden.

• The rationalisation of sports groundsfrom 13 to 7 will better reflect currentdemand.

P R O G R A M S A N D M A R K E T I N G• Programs will be developed within

the Park to increase the range ofrecreation opportunities available andthe range of users.

• The Park’s profile and use,particularly to new and under-represented users groups, will beimproved through the development ofspecific marketing and signagestrategies.

• The underdeveloped markets ofoverseas and national tourists is atargeted strategy.


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A C C E S S A N D C I R C U L A T I O NAccess and circulation will be improvedthrough:• upgrading of entry points to the Park;• development of looped trails from

major visitor use areas;• establishing a hierarchy of paths and

trails; and• controlling access points and number

of informal trails.

C U L T U R A L H E R I T A G EStrategies for managing the Park’simportant cultural history will be basedon an acknowledgment and respect ofsignificant former occupations and usesof the Park areas, and the adoption ofconservation policies as recommendedin the Yarra Bend Park Cultural HeritageManagement Plan.

I M P L E M E N T A T I O NSupport for Friends groups in theirefforts to improve the Park’senvironment will be continued.Priorities for implementation willaddress:• ensuring public safety and security;• protecting and enhancing existing

environmental values and diversity;• improving the quality and diversity of

visitor experience.


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Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY IV

1 BACKGROUND 1

1.1 Regional and Visitor Context 1

1.2 Management, Trust and Parks Victoria 2

1.3 Planning Process 2

2 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 3

2.1 Vision 3

2.2 Park Values 3

2.3 Guiding Principles 4

3 PARK WIDE STRATEGIES 6

3.1 Risk Management 6

3.2 The Environment 6

3.3 Visitor Management 9

3.4 Marketing & Information 12

3.5 Access and Circulation 14

3.6 Cultural Heritage 14

3.7 Park Character & Settings 15

4 ZONE STRATEGIES 19

Zone 1 Yarra River Management Zone 19

Zone 2 Westfield / Fairlea Management Area 19

Zone 3 River Bend Management Area 21

Zone 4 Golf Course Management Area 23

Zone 5 Trig Point Management Area 24

Zone 6 Willsmere Management Area 25

Zone 7 Studley Park Management Area 26


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5 IMPLEMENTATION 30

5.1 Management Resources 30

5.2 C o n s u l t a t i o n a n d C o o r d i n a t i o n 30

5.3 Priorities 30

5.4 Implementation Phases 30

5.5 Monitoring and Review 31

BIBLIOGRAPHY 32

Maps

Map 1 Key Initiatives End of Plan

Map 2 Indigenous Vegetation Condition & Geological Features End of Plan

Map 3 Park Management Zones End of Plan


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1 B A C K G R O U N DParks Victoria, in conjunction with theYarra Bend Park Trust, commissionedthe preparation of a Strategy Plan toprovide a five year strategic frameworkfor the future directions of Yarra BendPark. This strategy plan builds on theexisting 1990 Yarra Bend ParkManagement Plan, which set a cleardirection for much of the Park at thetime. In the intervening seven yearshowever, significant changes haveoccurred and this Strategy Plan is aimedat reviewing the previous work to chartthe direction of the Park over the nextfive years.

The main objectives of this StrategyPlan are:• to identify key future strategic

directions for the management ofYarra Bend Park;

• to outline key actions over the nextfive years;

• to identify the main strategies for thePark.

The Strategy Plan draws together and isto be read in conjunction with theEnvironmental Management and theHeritage Conservation Plans for thePark. These provide significantadditional detail in relation toenvironmental and cultural heritagematters.

1 . 1 R E G I O N A L A N DV I S I T O R C O N T E X T

1 . 1 .1 T H E P A R K W I T H I N T H E

R E G I O N The Park is located 6km to the north-east of central Melbourne, in the heart ofdensely populated inner suburbs. Publictransport to the Park is limited andconcentrated on the main roads. Yarra Bend Park serves both local andregional open space markets. Withinthe region, the park provides a uniquepark setting and experience. Thoughthe central Melbourne region appearswell served with open space, most of theparkland offers very formal Europeanand Victorian era landscapes, whichaccommodate a limited range ofrecreation opportunities. The informalAustralian bushland setting, the picnic

areas and the River allow Yarra BendPark to offer a greater range ofrecreation experiences within the region.Royal Park to the west, DarebinParklands to the north-east, BundooraPark to the north and further east, YarraValley Parklands, are significant regionalparks having overlapping usercatchments with Yarra Bend Park. Fairfield Park and Quarries Park, locatedadjacent to Yarra Bend Park providelocal park environments and children’splaygrounds. Fairfield Boathouse is amajor metropolitan attraction and theamphitheatre at Fairfield Park asignificant regional facility. 1 . 1 .2 T H E P A R K CA T C H M E N T Yarra Bend draws 46% of its visitorsfrom the local area (defined as within5km of the centre of the Park.) Elevenpercent of Melbourne’s population(344,000 people) live within thiscatchment. Some key demographic features of thepark catchment are:• large proportions of households with

no children (either single or coupleonly households);

• a significant proportion of peoplefrom non-English speakingbackgrounds (particularly in the Cityof Yarra);

• the local park catchment has a muchsmaller proportion of young peoplethan Melbourne does generally and ahigher proportion of the 20-29 agegroup. This is reflected in the largeproportion of dwellings which areapartments, flats and units withnearly one third of the localcatchment living in this type of home;

• one third of all Melbourne’s overseastourists stay within the localcatchment of the park but just 1% ofpark visitors are overseas tourists.

1 . 1 .3 C U R R E N T P A R K

V I S I T O R S With a significant proportion of visitorscoming from the immediate surroundingareas, the Park clearly has an importantrole to play in providing local open spaceopportunities.


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Yarra Bend’s visitor profile differs fromaggregated visitor data for metropolitanparks managed by Parks Victoria inseveral ways. The park attracts a higher proportion ofpeople in the 20-29 and over 60 agegroups and a lower proportion of peopleaged between 30-39 years. Familieswith children are typically a significantvisitor group to metropolitan parks, butboth the local catchment and the parkvisitation reflects a much lowerproportion of families with children. Other characteristics of the visitor profileindicate Yarra Bend visitors aregenerally highly educated with asignificant proportion in professional ormanagement positions. Indicative of thefeatures of the park, visitors have astrong sports and fitness focus. The majority of people visit the park insmall groups using walking tracks,interacting with the river, and visiting theStudley Park and Loop Road area. 1 . 1 .4 R E C R E A T I O N

A C T I V I T I E S The Park currently offers a range ofwater and land based recreation andsporting opportunities from canoeing,rowing and fishing to cycling, jogging,team sports such as cricket, competitivefly fishing and golf, through to the lessactive pastimes of picnicking and playingwith children. The most popularactivities undertaken at Yarra Bend Parkhowever, are walking and walking thedog. The Park’s terrain and layout have seenit become popular for off-road cyclingand on-road triathlon cycling training.Some popular activities have notappeared in the Park and could becatered for in the future. The potentialfor the Park to accommodate moresporting competitions in cycling, triathlonand biathlon events and less strenuousfun runs could be further developed.

1 . 2 M A N A G E M E N T ,T R U S T A N D P A R K SV I C T O R I A

In 1933, the Kew & Heidelberg LandsAct established the Yarra Bend ParkTrust to manage and administer thePark. The Trust comprises onecouncillor from each of the threeadjoining municipal councils, Yarra,Boroondara and Darebin, together with 4persons appointed by the VictorianGovernment. In March 1997, the Yarra Bend ParkTrust entered into a ManagementServices Agreement with Parks Victoria.Under this Agreement, Parks Victoriawas given the responsibility of managingthe day to day operation of Yarra BendPark on behalf of the Trust. TheAgreement also required Parks Victoria,in consultation with the Trust, to updatethe 1990 Management Plan through thepreparation of this five year StrategyPlan.

1 . 3 P L A N N I N GP R O C E S S

The planning process for the StrategyPlan involved three key stages, thesebeing;• research and analysis,• defining the strategic framework,

and,• development of the specific

strategies and final plan. Consultation with management andcommunity stakeholders and the widercommunity was integral to each stage inthe process.


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2 S T R A T E G I CD I R E C T I O N S

2 . 1 V I S I O N Yarra Bend Park will be knownthroughout Melbourne as thebushland park in the city. It willsustain a diverse environment andplay an important habitat role in theYarra corridor. Its variety oflandscape and natural elements,with the river as its central focus,accommodates a range of leisurepursuits from bushland seclusionand isolation, to recreation andorganised sports. Interpreting thePark’s rich cultural history andenvironmental importance will add tothe many reasons people will returnto enjoy this regional parkland.

2 . 2 P A R K V A L U E S The major values of the Park aresummarised below: E n v i r o n m e n t a l V a l u e s Yarra Bend Park has importantenvironmental values due to its primaryrole in the fauna corridors of the Yarraand Merri Creek Valleys, providing animportant link in the network of local,regional and national habitat corridors.As well as a plethora of invertebratespecies, the Park provides habitat for atotal of 193 observed species, including:• 7 bird species listed under JAMBA

and CAMBA (Japanese/ChineseMigratory Bird Agreement,respectively);

• 5 bird and 1 fish species listed underthe Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act;

• two fish species which arevulnerable in Victoria and four thatare rare in Victoria; and

• 14 fauna species listed as rare orthreatened by Department of NaturalResources and Environment.

In relation to flora, approximately 100hectares of the Park is covered byindigenous vegetation of varied quality.One hundred and seventeen significantflora species are present, 68 being oflocal importance and 49 of regionalimportance. The most extensive

vegetation type, namely Valley Forest, isregionally significant. Additionally, it is situated on theinterface of two geological types andprovides a number of clearly observablegeological formations. V i s i t o r V a l u e s The Park’s key value is its uniqueoffering of diverse and extensivebushland within only 6 kilometres of thecity centre. This juxtaposition ofextensive areas of indigenousvegetation in the midst of highlyurbanised surrounds, the “bushland inthe City”, is one of the most valuedcharacteristics of the Park. Thebushland character provides a sense oftranquillity and the opportunity forseclusion and isolation in some areas ofthe Park. Within this overall character, a widerange of experiences are available,including walking, cycling, pleasureboating, canoeing, picnicking,barbecuing, socialising, relaxing, formalor organised sports, nature studying,environmental activities, fly casting,playing, dog-walking, golfing, artsactivities, orienteering, fishing,sightseeing and many more. Supporting this diversity of experience isa wide range of facilities including anextensive trail network, picnic andbarbecue facilities, 18 hole and 9 holepar 3 golf courses, boathouse, kiosksand restaurant, extensive active sportsfields, fly-casting pool and a myriad ofother facilities.


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L a n d s c a p e V a l u e s The landscape qualities of Yarra BendPark set it clearly apart from other parksin Melbourne. The meeting of thewestern basalt plains with the silurianmudstones of the eastern suburbsresults in a landscape of dramaticcontrasts. The River is the major focus of YarraBend, connecting the Park to the rest ofMelbourne. The deep and winding rivervalley, 12 km long within the Park,provides opportunities for seclusion anda sense of isolation from the urbansurrounds. High above the river, dominating cliffsprovide commanding views of the cityskyline. Interspersed with this complexlandscape is a wide variety of openspaces, from small clearings inbushland, through open grassland areasto large sports fields and golf courses. Extensive areas of indigenousvegetation contrast sharply with theurban surrounds. Additionally, smallpockets of historic exotic plantingscreate attractive highlights in thelandscape. C u l t u r a l H e r i t a g eV a l u e s The Park’s rich cultural history, bothKoori and post-settlement, is asignificant element of the Park. It is thelargest remaining area of naturalbushland within inner Melbourne.Studley Park has remained so due to itsreservation for recreation purposessince 1877. It is significant for theaccommodation provided to latenineteenth century public institutions, aswell as its association with a number ofnotable 19th century artists. The formerBurns boathouse (now Studley Parkboathouse) is the oldest on the Yarra,and possibly Victoria, and has been incontinuous use since 1863.

2 . 3 G U I D I N GP R I N C I P L E S

Parks Victoria’s and the Yarra BendTrust’s strategic approach to respondingto the issues facing the Park andrealising this Vision will be underpinnedby the following guiding principles:

N a t u r a l E n v i r o n m e n t• The natural environment of the park

will be protected and maintainedcommensurate with theenvironmental values of individualareas.

• The natural environment will beprotected to maintain its importantrole in the Yarra Valley and MerriCreek habitat corridors.

• The diverse range of ecotypes andnatural features throughout the Parkwill be protected.

P a r k C h a r a c t e r• The distinctive character of the Park

will be reinforced by:- maintaining and enhancing the“bushland in the City” character; and- retaining an appropriate balancebetween informal recreation andactive sporting facilities that supporta diversity of Park uses.

• The river’s central role in the Park willbe reinforced by improving access toand use of the river.

• The unique built form and landscapecharacter of the Park will bereinforced through specific guidelinesfor the design of new elements withinthe Park.

P a r k V i s i t o r s• The Park will provide a range of

experiences that is balancedbetween offering opportunities forseclusion and isolation withrecreation and organised sports.

• The facilities required to support adiverse range of experiencesthroughout the Park will beappropriate in quality, number anddiversity to support the needs ofexisting and new visitors. Thisincludes facilities for passive andinformal recreation (such as walking,cycling and dog-walking) as well asactive and formal recreation (such asorganised sport and golf.)

• The Park will accommodate a greaternumber of visitors from a wider areaof Melbourne in an environmentallysustainable way. This will meandispersing use to specific areas thathave the capacity for increasedvisitation.

C u l t u r a l H e r i t a g e• The remaining elements of the Park’s

Koori and post-European settlementhistory will be protected and thenatural and cultural history of the


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Park made accessible to visitorsthrough interpretation, informationand promotion, where appropriate.

M a n a g e m e n t• Clearly defined and sustainable

priorities for resource allocation willunderpin Park management actions.This prioritisation will apply to themaintenance and protection of areasof recognised environmentalimportance, as well as the provisionof visitor services.

• Community involvement will beencouraged, supported and guidedfor the benefit of the Park andcommunity.

Map 1, The Strategy Plan, shows thekey strategies for the Park.


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3 P A R K W I D ES T R A T E G I E S

The Park Values and Guiding Principlesprovide a base from which detailedobjectives for EnvironmentalManagement, Visitor Management andCultural Heritage Management can bedeveloped to guide strategies in each ofthese key areas.

This section describes the variousstrategies that apply to the Park as awhole, while Section 4 describesstrategies for individual zones.Strategies related to the Yarra River aredealt with in detail in that section also.

3 . 1 R I S K M A N A G E M E N T

A comprehensive Risk Evaluation andAssessment has been carried out for thePark in 1997. The actions andstrategies contained in this report will beundertaken to ensure a safeenvironment for Park visitors and staff.

3 . 2 T H E E N V I R O N M E N T

While the Park contains a number ofareas of high environmental value (referMap 2, Vegetation Condition &Geology), the remaining areas of thePark are of lower environmental value.Consequently, environmentalmanagement strategies need to reflectthe environmental values of individualareas and ensure the maintenance offlora and fauna diversity within the Park.

With a total area of 233 ha andapproximately 100 ha of indigenousvegetation, the Park’s bushland isdistributed mostly as a linear strip,roughly following the course of the YarraRiver and Merri Creek. It acts as both areservoir for fauna and a corridor forlocal, regional and national faunamovement. Additionally, it is animportant resource as a seedbank oflocal provenance seeds, enhancing thegenetic diversity of the region.

3 . 2 .1 E N V I R O N M E N T A L R I S K S

There are a number of threats to theindigenous flora and fauna values of thePark, including:• Weed invasion, which reduces the

opportunities for regeneration ofindigenous flora through competitionand altered environmentalcharacteristics, such as soil and lightpenetration. Additionally, weedscan act as a harbour for pestanimals such as foxes and rabbits.

• Exotic animals in the Park create athreat to conservation potential. Thethreats come from animals whichhave found their way into theenvironment and are living in thewild, including rabbits, foxes, feralcats and dogs, exotic birds,introduced fish and feral bees andwasps. Threats exist also fromuncontrolled companion animalsbrought to the Park.

• Soil erosion and compaction is asignificant issue in the Park due tothe fragile erodible soils and thelevels of use found within particularareas of the Park.

• Stormwater drainage from roadsand the urban surroundings entersthe Park in a number of locationsand carries unnaturally high nutrientloads and other toxins.

• Wood removal and visitors gainingaccess to the bank have causedoccasional damage to vegetation.

• Uncontrolled fire can result inincreased weed invasion, loss ofhollows for dependant species andstimulates both weed andindigenous species seedgermination.

• While flooding is a natural process,the increase due to urbanisationupstream, as well as othercatchment management regimes,(including desnagging and removalof flood zones,) has increased theimpact within the Park andparticularly increases river bankerosion.

3 . 2 .2 S T R A T E G I E S

The areas of quality vegetation conditionare identified on Map 2. The greatestconcentration of resources will go intoprotecting and enhancing these areasalong the lines defined in the strategiesthat follow. It should be noted that the


7

day to day implementation of thesestrategies will be guided by the detailedEnvironmental Management Plan (EMP)for the Park. This EMP addresses:• The River and riparian areas;• Existing vegetation management;• Weed control;• Revegetation;• Pest animals;• Habitat management and

enhancement.

Y a r r a R i v e r a n d M e r r iC r e e k• Concentrate effort on improving the

quality of the riparian zone vegetationthrough the entire Park, reinforcingthe substantial vegetative edge alongboth sides of the River. Commenceenhancement from the areas of mostintact vegetation.

• Encourage the development of aspecies-specific strategy for theprotection and habitat improvementof the Australian Grayling(Prototroctes maraena).

• In relation to storm-water outletswithin the Park, liaise with adjacentlocal government authorities toimprove water quality in the Yarraand Merri Creek, particularly throughthe installation of silt and litter trapson all inlets. In appropriate drainagelines, create wetland systems for siltand nutrient stripping at stormwaterinlet points.

• Work with Melbourne Water toensure that the bed and banks of theRiver are managed to maximisehabitat potential by retaining snagsand submerged habitat objects in theRiver unless they pose a direct threatto water based recreational uses.Where such risk occurs, negotiateremoval of snags only to the extentrequired to reduce the risk to amanageable level, while retaininghabitat.

• Work with Melbourne Water and theCity of Yarra to remove woody weedspecies along the waterways,particularly Willows. Ensure removalmethods create the minimumnegative impact on the banks andthat replacement plantings arecarried out with indigenous species.

• Liaise with Melbourne Water todevelop emergency procedures forthe occurrence of pollution spills.

• Ensure the Golf Course maintenancecontract specifies that fertiliser

regimes do not unnecessarily add tothe nutrient load in the River.

• Protect popular fishing sites andviewing locations from degradationthrough the construction of trails,boardwalks and decks to specificlocations that are designed toaccommodate higher usage.

• Accommodate a relatively frequentoccurrence of dog access locationsto the river which are reinforced withlight timber decking to preventerosion.

• Reinforce the River bank only inlocations where important assets arelocated. Such protection will becarried out in an environmentally andaesthetically sympathetic manner.

• Manage canoeing and other water-based activities to defined entry/exitpoints on the River.

F l o r a a n d F a u n a• Concentrate resources on the

regeneration, restoration andenhancement of bushland withinexisting areas of high environmentalvalue. Focus on the broader riparianareas as a fauna corridor through thePark.

• Prepare grass management plans forall native and exotic grassland areas,ensuring these recognise grasslandimportance for faunal habitat.

• Manage all areas of basalt plainsgrassland according to therequirements of the Action Statementas part of the Flora and FaunaGuarantee Act.

• For areas designated to be removedfrom sporting or similar open uses,target revegetation at theestablishment of the upper storeyspecies, rather than developing a fullcompliment of species at all levels.

• Maintain the genetic integrity ofvegetation communities by usinglocal provenance seed in allrevegetation works.

• Continue to work with Vicroads toreduce the weed seed source alongthe Boulevard and to develop the“bushland” experience along theBoulevard with additionalrevegetation.

• Protect areas of culturally importantexotic vegetation (see CulturalHeritage Strategies for further detail)

• Develop species specific strategiesfor the protection of habitat for


8

species listed under the Flora andFauna Guarantee Act, as well asthose listed under JAMBA/CAMBA.Where necessary, carry outadditional research to determine thespecific utilisation of the Park bythese species.

• Implement the species ActionStatement for the RegentHoneyeater.

• Maintain the wetland revegetationarea in the vicinity of the Park Depotas one area within the Park that is acomplete sample of pre-contactvegetation community.

P e s t P l a n t s a n dA n i m a l s• The weed management strategy will

address, in order of priority: . weed control in the designated

areas of high value; . targeting of weeds designated as

posing the greatest threat tobiodiversity within eachmanagement area;

. targeting of woody weeds in areasof lower environmentalsignificance to minimise theadverse visual impact on thePark. Such weeds includeBoneseed, Gorse, Blackberry,Willow, Boxthorn, Pines, BoxElders, Ash trees and Elms;

. revegetating areas occupied byweeds that are possible to control,such as Kikuyu.

• Involve community andenvironmental interest groups inweed management according to thepriorities established in theEnvironmental Management Plan.

• Develop a range of managementactions to control pest animals suchas rabbits, foxes and feral cats.

• Continue the current eradicationprograms for rabbits and exploremethods of minimising re-infestationfrom adjacent areas.

F i r e H a z a r dM a n a g e m e n t• Prepare and annually update a fire

action plan that details emergencyresponses for fire control in or nearthe Park.

• Monitor and assess the effectivenessof controlled burns as a method offire risk management and theirconsequent impact on vegetation.

G e o l o g y• Protect declared and significant

geological and geomorphologicalsites of interest from inappropriatedevelopment or change. (Some sitesare already on the State Register.)

• Promote the educational values ofthe Park’s geology to educationalinstitutions.

R e s e a r c h• Seek opportunities for further co-

operative land management researchand exploration with educationalinstitutions, both secondary andtertiary.

• Establish clearly identifiable researchneeds and priorities for the Park thatcan be marketed to educationalinstitutions in a way that willmaximise the acceptance and uptakeof the research opportunities.

• Ensure all land management workscarried out on the site are monitoredand recorded for effectiveness toallow a knowledge base to beestablished in relation to urbanbushland management. Whereappropriate, use land managementinitiatives as opportunities forresearching or trialing differentmethodologies to add to theknowledge base.


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3 . 3 V I S I T O RM A N A G E M E N T

3 . 3 .1 E X I S T I N G V I S I T O R

G R O U P S A number of visitor groups can beidentified from recent visitor researchundertaken within the park (YannCampbell Hoare Wheeler 1997). Themajor groups are: R e c r e a t i o n U s e r s This group makes up 40% of park userswho visit the park to be with family andfriends, picnic, walk and to play withchildren. P a s s i v e U s e r s & N a t u r eL o v e r s The park’s environmental qualitiesprovide a strong motivation for manyvisitors who are attracted to the scenery,views and the experience of communingwith nature. S p o r t i n g U s e r s a n dF i t n e s s S e e k e r s The park provides for a diverse range ofsports and fitness activities includingteam competition, golf, fly casting,cycling, running and training for athleticcompetitions. S t u d l e y P a r kB o a t h o u s e V i s i t o r sVisiting the Boathouse features stronglyin peoples experience with 60% ofvisitors having been to the area in thepast 12 months.

3 . 3 .2 F U T U R E V I S I T O RG R O U P S

The visitor profile of Yarra Bend Parkstrongly reflects that of the localcatchment, particularly from suburbs inBoroondara. The Park will continue toattract a large proportion of visitors fromthese areas. However, there is scopefor other visitor groups, which are notwell represented at present, to use thePark thus broadening its attraction to awider regional area. These groups are:

F a m i l y G r o u p s w i t hC h i l d r e nAt present a high proportion of YarraBend Park visitors come from familieswithout children. Creating an attractionfor this group in the community could

see the park attracting visitors from awider regional catchment.

T o u r i s t sThis group currently makes up only avery small proportion of Yarra Bend Parkusers. It is likely that the park attractsmany ‘drive through’ tourists viewing thescenery from cars and buses who havenot been captured by the visitorresearch. The position of the park closeto the city providing the ‘bushland in theCity’ experience could, in the future, seethe park well placed as one ofMelbourne’s tourist attractions.

L a r g e S o c i a l G r o u p sLarge groups do not make up a highproportion of visitors to Yarra Bend Park.Attracting large social groups willdiversify the range of visitors to the parkproviding a picnic and barbecue locationclose to the City.

R i v e r U s e r sA significant proportion of visitors havedirect contact with the river. There isscope for further increasing the visitorexperience with the river by promotingriver activities as one of the mainreasons for visiting the park.

L o c a l D i v e r s e C u l t u r a lG r o u p sThe local Park catchment has highproportions of people from othercultures. Research indicates thesegroups are traditionally not frequent parkusers. However, the park could broadenit’s attraction to these diverse groupsthrough active promotion strategies.

3 . 3 .3 F U T U R E V I S I T O RN U M B E R S

A 20% increase in visitor numbers to thepark is expected by the year 2007. Thepark can absorb this increase, providingthe additional visitors are directed intoareas where the increased use can beaccommodated without negative impacton the environment. The estimate isbased on:• an expected increase simply due to

growing park use by the community;• the proposed improved facilities

generally;• promotion as a tourist venue;• the development of the Deep Rock

Picnic and playground facilities; and


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• the development of commercialfacilities at the 18 hole golf courseand Studley Park Reception Centre.

With the implementation of thestrategies contained in this Plan,increases in visitation are expected in:• the Ovals and Loop Road area,

(including Deep Rock and the GolfCourse Reception Centre);

• Andrews Reserve area; and• The Studley Park Reception and Par

3 Golf Course areas. A reduction in the proportion of parkusers is expected at Studley Park, anarea already under significantenvironmental pressure from currentvisitor levels. Parking capacity willremain as a limitation to visitor numbershere. 3 . 3 .4 V I S I T O R F A C I L I T I E S The standard of visitor facilities withinYarra Bend Park generally does notmeet the basic standard established byParks Victoria in terms of the quality,location and number of facilitiesprovided. Although much of the parkfacility infrastructure is old, a $1mupgrading of facilities in 1997 has seena marked improvement in the quality ofvisitor amenities. The most frequently used facilities withinthe park are walking tracks (see Section3.2 Access & Circulation), the YarraRiver and Studley Park Boathouse, Theother food service facilities are well usedfollowed by toilets and picnic facilities. It is recognised that one of the popularactivities undertaken at Yarra Bend Parkis walking the dog. “Dog off lead” areaswill be provided south of Westfield, theFairlea sports fields and Collins oval,while the remainder of the park will bedesignated as “Dog on lead”. The following facilities have beenhighlighted to be addressed as part ofthe Strategy Plan: T o i l e t F a c i l i t i e s• Rationalise the provision of toilet

facilities throughout the park toensure they are locatedappropriately and are easilyaccessible to high use areas.

• Improve the quality of toilet facilities.

• Address the frequent inappropriateuse of male public toilet facilitiesthroughout the park.

P i c n i c F a c i l i t i e s• Improve existing picnic facilities to

bring them to an acceptablestandard.

• Increase the number and range ofpicnic facilities including shelters atselected sites to increase the park’scapacity and to cater to a widervariety of users.

P l a y g r o u n d s• Increase the number and improve the

quality of playgrounds at selectedlocations in the park, including thedevelopment of a significantplayground of regional attraction.

• Ensure a range of children’s agesand play experiences are catered forin playground design.

• Ensure playground design considersthe need for shade and seating, aswell as accommodating people withdisabilities.

A c c e s s i b i l i t y (See Section 3.5 Access & Circulation) W a l k i n g & C y c l e t r a c k s (See Section 3.5 Access & Circulation) V i e w i n g p o i n t s• Create a range of accessible viewing

points throughout the park atstrategic locations where views ofMelbourne City and the bushlandsetting are best highlighted.

• Create short stay parking places at anumber of identified viewing locationson roads throughout the park.

• Provide seating and interpretationmaterial at selected viewinglocations.

P a r k A m e n i t i e s• Upgrade seating throughout the park

particularly on trails at points ofscenic interest.

• Increase the number of drinking tapsthroughout the park located alongtrails at points close to existing waterservice locations.

• Provide bins in areas adjacent tofood outlets with a “Carry In CarryOut” policy adopted for other areas ofthe park.


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C o m p a n i o n A n i m a l s• Designate the entire Park as “Dogs

on lead”, except for designated“Dogs off lead” areas including:. south of Westfield;. Fairlea sports fields; and. Collins Oval.

• Provide facilities for owners toretrieve and remove dog droppings.Such facilities will be incorporated atall dogs-off-lead areas and along themain trail network.

• Dog access to the river should beencouraged only in those areasdesigned to accommodate themwhere minimum damage to the riverbanks will result.

• Work with adjacent localgovernments to improve communityunderstanding of the importance ofresponsible pet ownership.

• Work with the local community,especially local dog groups, toeducate park users about dog policy.

3 . 3 .5 S P O R T S F A C I L I T I E S Sports facilities are an importantelement of Yarra Bend Park adding to itsambience and encouraging a diverserange of visitors to the park.Concentrated in the Westfield, Fairleaand Loop Road Areas, the facilities havea long history in the park. The formalsports of golf, (with both the 18 holecourse and Par 3 course,) cricket (turfand concrete wickets), soccer and flycasting, as well as canoeing andkayaking on the river areaccommodated. Cycling andorienteering events also take placewithin the park. Sports facilities should remain as anelement of the park where demandremains strong and facilities can bemaintained to an acceptable standard. 1 8 h o l e G o l f C o u r s e• Maintain the course to a high playing

standard to ensure it’s ongoingsuccess and attraction to aMelbourne wide and broadercatchment.

• Maximise use of the course throughdevelopment of a targeted marketingstrategy.

• Work with the Golf Coursemanagement to ensure the GolfCourse development achieves the

aim of attracting more golfers andmeeting a broader range of visitorneeds than is currently provided for.

9 h o l e P a r 3 C o u r s e• Maintain the course to an acceptable

playing standard.• Develop a marketing strategy for the

course.• Investigate additional recreational

opportunities for the area S p o r t s G r o u n d s• Rationalise the number of sports

grounds from 13 to 7 to reflectcurrent demand and seize theopportunity to create additionalunstructured areas within the park.

• Improve the quality of the sportsgrounds in poor condition throughnegotiation with current sportsground users.

• Explore the potential of the sportsgrounds to accommodate a widerrange of seasonal sports.

R o p e s C o u r s e• Seek interest from outside

organisations to upgrade andmanage the Ropes Course to anacceptable safety standard. If nointerest can be established, removethe course.

S t u d l e y P o i n t L o o pR o a d C y c l i n g C i r c u i t• Further promote the Studley Point

Loop Road to bicycle clubs andorganisations as a venue forcompetitive cycling events promotingevents widely across the park.

F l y C a s t i n g P o o l• Negotiate with Red Tag Fly Fishers

to develop the site with additionalfacilities available for club andcommunity use. The club’s plans forsome additional facilities in the areawould further enhance the area, withthe provision of a rotunda andpicnic/barbecue facilities.

B i c y c l e U s a g e Demand on the park as a venue forinformal sports activities and mostparticularly for training has increased ascommunity interest in mountain bike andgeneral cycling has increased. Fitnessactivities are very popular with parkvisitors, with the park’s terrain offeringphysical challenges and an environment


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not found elsewhere as close toMelbourne. Complicating this howeveris the detrimental impact uncontrolledmountain bike use can have on theenvironment and the safety of trail andtrack users.• Work with local mountain bike clubs

to develop a strategy for reducing offroad impact on Yarra Bend Park.

• In conjunction with local clubs,identify an acceptable trail systemwithin the park suitable for off-roadmountain bike use and promote thatsystem to direct use away fromsensitive park areas.

• Explore with Vicroads the potential topromote the Boulevard as a trainingand competition venue for cyclists,with due regard to traffic and riskissues.

3 . 3 .6 P R O G R A M S There is opportunity for programs to bebetter developed within the Park therebyincreasing the range of recreationopportunities available. C o m m u n i t y E v e n t s• Develop an annual calendar of

activities through promotion of thepark’s venues to local governmentand community groups.

• Promote the natural lawnamphitheatre at Deep Rock and theLoop Road area for large communityevents, such as musicalperformances, plays and films.

C a m p i n g• Investigate opportunities for

controlled group camping within thePark to add to the diversity ofrecreation experience provided.Possible sites include the River atFairlea and River View, as well asnorth of Bellbird.

• Camping opportunities should bepackaged with other activitiesthroughout the park to make themattractive for community group use.

3 . 4 M A R K E T I N G &I N F O R M A T I O N

Marketing of the Park and provision ofinformation through signage andpromotional material will assist in

developing its profile and use,particularly to new users groups. 3 . 4 .1 S I G N A G E &

I N F O R M A T I O N • Develop a Park-specific signage

strategy, using Parks Victoriastandards, throughout the Parkaddressing directional and orientationsignage needs.

• Improve existing points of entry withclearly identified ‘gateways’,preceded by appropriate touristsignage on main roads.

• Clearly identify the Park in Melbournestreet directories with entry pointsmore clearly marked.

• Develop a park-specific interpretivesignage strategy for the Park, usingParks Victoria standards andaccommodating the individualopportunities for interpretationidentified throughout this plan.

• Within the overall Parks Victoriainformation and marketing strategy,develop a park-specific informationplan addressing the most effectivemedium for informationdissemination/provision throughoutthe Park and for specific elements(eg. the use of “Park Notes” asopposed to interpretive signage insitu for particular environmental orcultural elements.)

3 . 4 .2 C A L E N D A R O F

A C T I V I T I E S Yarra Bend Park has enormous potentialto provide a range of events andactivities that will raise the profile of thepark and increase awareness of thediversity of activities and attractions.• Develop a calendar of activities that:

. is consistent with the vision for thepark;. is coordinated with existingtourism bodies to avoid clashes withexisting events in Melbourne.

• Focus events on potential newmarket groups and the surroundingcommunity.

• Link with surrounding Councils topromote and encourage the park tobe used as an event venue.


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3 . 4 .3 A T T R A C T I N G NE WV I S I T O R S

Successful marketing of Yarra BendPark must be based on theunderstanding of the market. Each ofthe target markets identified requires atargeted campaign.

Develop a detailed visitor strategy,incorporating at least the followingstrategies:

N a t i o n a l a n d O v e r s e a sT o u r i s t sFor the overseas tourist market(especially overseas short-stay touristswho are ‘time poor’ and cannot travelfurther from Melbourne), it is importantto build the image of the park withemphasis on the two Melbourne iconsof:• the Studley Park Boathouse and

Yarra Bend Golf Course; and• the Park’s Australian bushland

setting.• Develop a promotional strategy for

the park in liaison with regional,State and National tourist agencies.

F a m i l i e s w i t h C h i l d r e n• Creation of a new playground area at

Deep Rock, well away from the rivershould prove an attraction to parentswith young children who may not visitthe park because of their safetyconcerns with the river.

• Explore private sector interest inestablishing a hire service for ‘allterrain’ strollers, as terrain throughoutthe park varies.

• Provide families with an alternative toFairfield Park.

L o c a l D i v e r s e C u l t u r a lG r o u p sEncourage cultural groups to visit thepark by:• Promoting a park through:

. non-English media (newspapers, radio);

. local and regional cultural social groups;

• exploring the introduction ofculturally specific activity zones eg.boules, bocce.

L a r g e S o c i a l G r o u p sIt is important to consider the needs ofthe organisers of large social gatherings.

The park should be promoted to largegroups through:• Liaison and co-ordination with

surrounding municipalities;• Promotion to regional businesses;• Periodic ‘interest’ stories in local

newspapers. R i v e r U s e r s• Ensure the calendar introduces a

number of events that focus on theriver.

• Investigate the establishment of aboat link between Studley ParkBoathouse and Fairfield Boathouse.

C r o s s S e l l i n g t oE x i s t i n g P a r k U s e r s In addition to attracting new visitors tothe park, the marketing strategy shouldalso address “cross selling” the variousactivities offered in the park to existingusers. This can partly be addressedthrough increased brand awareness,whereby existing and potential users willbecome aware that Yarra Bend Parkoffers diversity. The recent introduction of a RangerCentre at Studley Park is a step in thiscross selling process. Other initiativescould include:• Investigation of the private sector

utilising the river for transportinggroups;

• Developing a database of inquiries toenable mailing of event information tothose who have expressed interest inspecific areas;

• Distribute the Calendar of Activitiesthrough the Ranger Centre.

3 . 4 .4 E D U C A T I O N

The Park is a rich resource forenvironmental and other forms ofeducation for students at primary,secondary and tertiary levels.

• Promote the use of the park for sucheducational purposes, concentratingparticularly on environmentaleducation.

• Develop partnerships withsecondary and tertiary institutionsthat can partake in research and/orland management programs withinthe park.


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3 . 5 A C C E S S A N DC I R C U L A T I O N

The degree of access throughout thePark will differ according to the particularsetting’s role and the environment’scapacity to accommodate access.

S t r a t e g i e s• Develop clearly identifiable entry

points to the Park from all pedestrian,cycle and vehicle entries.

• Develop loop trails from major visitoruse areas and provide adequatesignage and information toencourage use.

• Establish a hierarchy of paths andtrails with the design, constructionand maintenance appropriate to thelevel of use intended and reinforcingthe creation of a variety of visitorexperiences on the different trailtypes. The range of path typeswould include: . the Main Yarra Trail as a 2.5m

wide bitumen or concrete dual usepathway;

. main Park trails, in high useareas, surfaced in gravel;

. low key access trails, thedominant trail type distributedthrough the Park, with earth ormulch surfacing as required bythe specific situation.

• Control access points in isolatedareas and reduce the excessivenumber of informal trails.

• Protect river banks as far as possibleby defining pathways some metresback from the edge. In popularviewing locations, control access tothe banks with appropriate fencingand timber decking where necessary.

• Provide access for people withdisabilities at the future Deep Rockdevelopment, the Golf Course LoopRoad and Studley Park boathousearea.

• Provide informal stopping and restingpoints along all major pathways,particularly the Yarra Trail, to takeadvantage of views and landscapequalities of particular areas.

• Maintain and promote theBoulevard’s role as: . a key tourist route to and through

the Park; and . a cycling, walking and running

venue.

• Design disabled and frail agedaccess into the Park to ensure: . a range of park environments is

accessible, including the river’sedge;

. appropriate surfacing andcontours.

• Provide parking for the disabled andfrail aged at major parking areasthroughout the Park.

• Ensure disabled and frail agedaccess is accommodated in thedesign of all new visitor facilities.

3 . 6 C U L T U R A LH E R I T A G E

3 . 6 .1 A B O R I G I N A L H I S T O R Y Yarra Bend is the site of the firstAboriginal Protectorate and Mission inthe Melbourne, established in 1837. (Ithas been nominated for inclusion on theRegister of the National Estate). Thiswas for the “containment” of theAboriginal community, and served toboth protect and assimilate the nativecommunity of the district. It was wherethe Koori’s could continue a traditionalform of lifestyle near the city without fearof attack from settlers. The details of Yarra Bend’s pre-contactsignificance, and the values derivedfrom Aboriginal tradition have not beendetermined. Additionally, the area hasnot yet been fully surveyed for aboriginalarchaeological sites.

3 . 6 .2 E U R O P E A N H I S T O R Y


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Yarra Bend Park’s long history with thecreation of public open space andrecreational facilities close to the city ismanifest particularly in Studley Park andalso represented in a number of existingbuildings (several of which are includedon the Register of the National Estate).The park is also significant for itsassociation with the development of arange of public institutions from the mid-1800’s and early 1900’s. The mostnotable of these was the Yarra BendLunatic Asylum which is evident in exoticplantings that once formed part of itsexpansive gardens. The park issignificant also for its connection with arange of notable artists who were drawnto the area in the 19th Century. 3 . 6 .3 S T R A T E G I E S The following strategies define theframework for managing the Park’simportant cultural history. The detail ofspecific management actions to achievethese strategies is part of the YarraBend Park Cultural HeritageManagement Plan. • Acknowledge and respect significant

former occupations and uses of thepark areas through:• adoption of conservation policies

as recommended in the YarraBend Conservation Plan 1998;

• retention and conservation ofidentified significant physicalremnants in accordance withBurra Charter principles andpractices;

• provision of interpretiveopportunities of culturallysignificant aspects and formeroccupations of the park area;

• planning and development of newand renewed park facilities whichis sensitive to both remnantphysical and site cultural values.

• Consult with appropriate localAboriginal communityrepresentatives in the development

of management strategies anddirections for identified sites ofAboriginal Significance within thepark.

• Comply with the requirements of theHeritage Act 1995 and theArchaeological and Aboriginal RelicsPreservation Act 1972 in respect toarchaeological finds deriving fromsite excavations associated with parkdevelopment and activity.

• Retain and enhance the traditionallandscape character variety andrecreation mix and uses of the Park.

• Provide interpretive information toPark visitors to help in theappreciation of cultural values.

3 . 7 P A R K C H A R A C T E R& S E T T I N G S

The overall character of the variousparts of the Park contribute significantlyto its attractiveness to users. Thischaracter is contributed to by the naturallandscape, the human modifiedlandscape and the various builtelements that occur throughout the Park.These include park buildings, fences,roadways, park furniture, shelters, signsand many other structures. Protectionand enhancement of the existingattractive park character requires a cleardirection in relation to these elementsfrom an “aesthetic” point of view, as wellas the environmental and visitormanagement perspectives outlinedelsewhere.

The following list outlines the generalcharacter to be aimed at in themanagement of the Park, with the intentbeing to provide a diverse range ofenvironmental settings that reinforce theintrinsic attractiveness of the Park. The“Zones” named are defined in Map 3,Management Zones and are broadlyconsistent with the zones used in the1990 Management Plan.

M a n a g e m e n t Z o n e Z o n e C h a r a c t e rZone 1Yarra River Management Zone • Retain and reinforce the original woodland

character of the river valley.

Zone 2Westfield/Fairlea Management Area2A Westfield • Maintain the existing mixed landscape


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M a n a g e m e n t Z o n e Z o n e C h a r a c t e rcharacter.

• Improve views and vistas from Yarra BendRoad and Heidelberg Road, while providingscreening to picnic areas.

2B Merri Creek Valley &Escarpment

• Reinforce open woodland character ofindigenous species on the “plateau” area,incorporating sports fields, with denservegetation on the escarpment and within theMerri Creek valley itself.

• Maintain Yarra Bend Road as a high qualityscenic road providing excellent views to theCity skyline.

2C Fairlea • Reinforce the mixed character of opensporting parkland on the upper plateau andriparian woodland along the Yarra River.

• Screen the freeway and install indigenousplantings through the area to assist faunamovement across the plateau between thevalleys.

Zone 3River Bend Management Area3A Deep Rock • Provide a highly maintained exotic turf

picnic area, with open woodland plantings ofindigenous trees.

3B River View • Reinforce the wetland area to provide anenvironmental example of the type of plantcommunity that would have been typical offlood plain sections of the Park.

3C Golf Course Loop Road • Maintain the existing exotic plantings as thevisual framework for an area of wellmaintained lawns and a picturesque sportsfield with bluestone features.

Zone 4Golf Course Management Area4 Golf Course/Development • Retain the existing mixed exotic and

indigenous plantings to provide an attractivesetting along the river, as well as habitatopportunities between the fairways andalong the River.

Zone 5Trig Point Management Area5 Wurundjeri Spur – Trig Point • Maintain the existing bushland character of

the area with additional revegetation anderosion control measures.

Zone 6Willsmere Management Area6A Hairpin Bend • Retain the existing bushland character on

the escarpment and reinforce wherenecessary with revegetation.

6B Wills Street/WillsmerePrecinct

• Retain the excellent views from this areathrough the maintenance of the openwoodland character. The area will be


17

M a n a g e m e n t Z o n e Z o n e C h a r a c t e rmaintained as a wild area of the Park, withlong grass and predominantly indigenoustree and shrub plantings.

6C Bellbird • Manage the area to provide a quality mownturf area in a bushland setting, withformalised access to the river. Additionalindigenous plantings will provide a greaterbuffer to the Boulevard to the east.

Zone 7Studley Park Management Area7A Studley Park Boathouse

Precinct• Maintain the series of picnic and barbecue

areas on the river banks, linked by pathsand a carpark, with the Kiosk andRestaurant forming the focus of theprecinct.

• Retain the predominantly indigenousbushland character, while preserving theexotic plantings around the boatshed andpicnic area.

7B Studley Park Lower Bushland • Maintain and enhance the better qualitynatural areas on the slopes and retain thebushland character of the flats, withoutcreating a major requirement for high levelsof revegetation or weed managementthrough the zone.

7C Studley Park Upper Bushland • Reinforce the “bush in the city” concept atthis important visual entry to the Park, with acomplete range of upper, middle and under-storey species.

7D Studley Point Loop Road • Reinforce the areas of high quality bushlandon the ridge and slopes.

• Provide an appropriately designed lookoutarea to capitalise on the excellent viewsfrom the centre of the loop road, linkingthrough path systems to the lower areasadjacent to the River.

Zone 8Lower Yarra Management Area8A Par 3 Golf Course, Studley

Park Receptions & NorrisReserve

• As senescence occurs, promote the gradualreversion of the area to dominantlyindigenous bushland.

• Retain the Par 3 Golf Course to provide anattractive recreational environment withexcellent views. The Café redevelopmentwill provide a modified landscape, with amix of indigenous, native and exotic speciesappropriate to a higher use and highermaintenance zone.

8B Andrews Reserve • Retain the open parkland character of thepicnic areas. To the south and east,


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M a n a g e m e n t Z o n e Z o n e C h a r a c t e rreinforce a more indigenous character,blending into the adjacent DickinsonReserve vegetation.

8C Dickinson Reserve • Reinforce the existing high qualityvegetation in the area.

Zone 9The Boulevard

• The unique character of the Boulevard willbe reinforced, particularly in relation todriving through the bush and the builtelements of stone retaining walls and thelike. Vegetation along the Boulevard willreinforce the “bush in the City” concept, withrevegetation where necessary and removalof pest plants where required.

3 . 7 .1 S T R A T E G I E S

In relation to the overall park character,the following strategies will be applied:• All works will harmonise with the

existing character of the Park,including: . adopt materials, colours and

styles that are natural, appropriateand in character with Park;

. where appropriate, building stylesshould be sympathetic with theGolf House and/or Boat house;

. roadways will only be wideenough to accommodate therequired traffic at slow speeds andmaterials will be in keeping withthe character of the older existingroads in the Park.

• Provide for significant views into thePark from adjacent roadways bycontrolled use of planting to createvistas, while providing other areasthat are screened from roads.

• For security reasons, whereverpossible, design carparks to allowclear views of cars from adjacentareas.

• Design all revegetation and pathworks to minimise the visual intrusionof surrounding urban development.

• Design all built elements to optimisethe balance between initial capitaldevelopment costs and recurrentmaintenance costs.


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4 Z O N ES T R A T E G I E S

These key actions and strategies havebeen developed to address issues thatare specific to the individual zones in thePark. The location of the zonesdescribed is shown on Map 3.

Z O N E 1Y A R R A R I V E RM A N A G E M E N T Z O N E

R o l e :• To provide the environmental

“backbone” for the Park.• To be part of the overall fauna

movement corridor of the YarraValley.

• To be one of the key recreationattractions in the Park.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Reinforce the important role of the

fauna corridor through enhancementof the riparian vegetation throughoutthe Park.

• Create a broad indigenousvegetation band along the full lengthof the river on both banks.Concentrate revegetation efforts onupper and middle storey species,while seizing opportunities in areaswith existing good quality lowerstorey species to reinforce thediversity they create.

• Work with local government andMelbourne Water to maximise thewater quality in the river.

• Encourage appropriate authorities(local government, MelbourneWater) to install silt and litter traps inthe storm-water systems leading intothe river.

• Wherever possible, formalise andreinforce viewing and access areasto the river to minimise erosiondamage.

• Develop an education campaign forfishermen to encourage responsibleriver use and access. Promote useby them of the reinforced viewingand access areas.

Visitor Management• Promote appropriate recreational

use of the River by:

. further developing viewing andaccess points to the River;

. more actively promoting theprofile of the River through allinterpretive and directionalinformation;

. investigating the commercialviability of one way rowing boathire or Ferry service betweenFairfield and Studley ParkBoathouses (subject toeconomic and environmentalfeasibility studies, particularly inrelation to noise, wash and snagissues);

. promoting club use of the Riverand access amenities; and

. promoting water basedcompetition on the River.

• Promote use of the river to local,national and international (tourist)users.

• Explore and promote opportunitiesfor water based sporting activitieswithin the Park.

• Create a clear and well promotedlink to Dights Falls from the DeepRock area.

• Explore with Melbourne Water andthe City of Yarra opportunities forwater based recreation at DightsFalls.

Z O N E 2W E S T F I E L D / F A I R L E AM A N A G E M E N T A R E A

2 A W E S T F I E L D

R o l e :• To provide the major northern entry

to the Park.• To be a focus for accommodation of

large group picnic and barbecueactivities, with a strong connectionto Fairfield Park.

• To be a key orientation andinformation dissemination point.

• To form part of the Main Yarra andMerri Creek Trails.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Through liaison with the City of

Darebin, promote co-operative andconsistent land and visitormanagement and a vehicular


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access link between Yarra BendPark and Fairfield Park.

Visitor Management• Improve the quality of the entrance

experience with a substantiallandscape development of theentrance roadway to the GolfCourse Loop Road, addressing: . the sense of entry and

orientation; . traffic and parking issues; . potential relationships to

Fairfield Park; and . the view potentials.

• Investigate potential to share use ofcarpark in northern portion of formerFairfield Hospital site with futureuser and/or Fairfield Park.

• To increase use of the Park by largesocial groups and families, upgradeWestfield picnic area to betteraccommodate large group use.

Cultural Heritage Management• Maintain exotic vegetation in the

picnic area as part of the landscapeheritage of the area.

2 B M E R R I C R E E K V A L L E Y

& E S C A R P M E N T R o l e :• To support the continuity and quality

of the Merri Creek habitat corridor.• To provide high quality trail

experiences with some of the bestviews to the City.

• To provide for “Dogs off lead” in adefined area of the Park.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Continue extension of indigenous

escarpment vegetation along thevalley, maintaining view corridorsfrom the upper plateau.

• Continue intensive weed control offennel on the escarpment, as well asaddressing the scatteredoccurrences of other weed species.

Visitor Management• Improve the surrounds of sports

fields in the zone with amenityplantings and seating.

• Increase the density of vegetationalong the freeway margin at thesouthern end of the precinct.

• Review the future of the pavilionamenities in light of theestablishment or otherwise of aviable sporting use of the adjacentoval.

• Remove the infrequently usedsoccer ground and revegetate withindigenous woodland plantings.

• Develop additional specific viewinglocations along the escarpment trail(Main Yarra Trail.)

• Improve the amenities along the trailincluding seats and drinkingfountains, particularly at thesestrategic viewing locations.

• Promote the area as one for “Dogsoff leads” on the upper plateau area.Install facilities for dog owners toremove droppings from the Park.

• Promote the trail links to Dights Fallsand the Merri Creek Trail.

Cultural Heritage Management• Preserve and interpret remnant gate

pillar from the entrance to the YarraBend Asylum Infirmary (included onthe State Heritage Register).

• Provide interpretive information aboutthe previous occupations of the site,including the Aboriginal Protectorate,Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum, TheInfectious Diseases Hospital, andFairlea Women’s Prison.

2 C F A I R L E A R o l e :• To continue active sports while

providing for a more diverse rangeof recreation activities.

• To reinforce fauna link betweenMerri and Yarra valleys and formpart of the trail link between the two.

• To provide a central managementpoint and public interface for thePark.

• To provide opportunity for acommunity involvement focal pointfor the Park

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Implement revegetation of the Yarra

bank area, east of the formerFairfield hospital, concentrating onupper storey plantings to create anopen woodland character, with anunderstorey of exotic grasses.


21

• Continue weed control,concentrating on:. blackberry thickets;. furze;. Serrated Tussock; and. other sporadic occurrences ofweed species.

• Formalise a small number of viewingpoints along the river bank pathwayto encourage access to the river atspecifically protected or reinforcedareas.

• Increase upper and middle storeyvegetation along the edge of theEastern Freeway to provide avi-fauna habitat and visual bufferingfrom the freeway.

• Manage the new plantings to thesouth of the former Fairlea Hospitalsite to maximise the area’s potentialto provide for a fauna corridor. Asfar as possible within the constraintsof the adjacent sports fields,increase the upper canopy plantingsalong the south side of the accessroad.

Visitor Management• Promote new Park Office location

through clear signage.• Promote Fairlea sports ovals as

designated “dog off lead” area.• Provide interpretive signage at the

fly fishing pool to inform othervisitors of its use and times of use.

• Support the development of theadditional facilities proposed by theRed Tag Fly Fishing Club, subject tosuitable lease and managementarrangements.

• Retain the larger Fairlea oval andpavilion for active sport.

• Revegetate the smaller eastern ovaland link to the Fly Fishing Poolenhancement proposals.

• Establish a connecting trail from theYarra Valley to the Merri Creek.

• Monitor the effectiveness ofscreening vegetation for the FairfieldPsychiatric facility to ensure theminimum visual intrusion on thePark.

Cultural Heritage Management• Determine an appropriate, park

related use for the remaining“Fairlea” building or otherwiseremove it and revegetate the area.

• Provide interpretive informationabout the Pipe Bridge, its historyand use.

Z O N E 3R I V E R B E N DM A N A G E M E N T A R E A 3 A D E E P R O C K R o l e :• To provide a new passive

recreational focus, primarily cateringto families with children.

• To continue support for active sportsuse, but with rationalised playingfields.

• To provide relief for visitor pressureon other areas, particularly the LoopRoad.

• To provide an accessible gateway toDights Falls.

• To provide an opportunity foroccasional large events.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Increase river margin vegetation.• Continue to control weeds in the

river margin areas, concentrating oninfestations, which reduce thebiodiversity of these areas.

• Install additional woodland plantingsaround proposed picnic area andbetween retained ovals andproposed picnic area.

• Enhance freeway edge plantings tomaximise screening effect.

• Formalise pathway connectingDights Falls to the Golf Course LoopRoad area to prevent furthererosion.

Visitor Management• To increase use of the Park by

family groups with children, preparea concept plan for the developmentof a new picnic facility at DeepRock, incorporating the lower openspace and the “Cricket Oval” (southof the existing carpark area.) Theconcept plan should include: . a large scale playground; . an extended carpark area; . seating, limited picnic tables and

a drinking fountain; . barbecue and picnic facilities;


22

. picnic shelters in the lower openspace;

. new toilet facilities to ParksVictoria standards;

. revegetation of the picnic areasite to create shade and areasof seclusion.

• Develop a series of loop trailsconnecting to Dights Falls, KanesBridge and the remaining ovals.

• Enhance the natural amphitheatre atthe south end of the lower DeepRock picnic area for use as a lowintensity and frequency venue foroutdoor community theatre andmusic events. Market the venue tothe local and wider community.

• To further promote the profile of theRiver, develop reinforced riverviewing points to provide accesswithout degradation of the banks.

• Investigate with Vicroads thepotential to install noise barriersalong the Freeway edge from thecutting to west of the Park.

Cultural Heritage Management• Provide interpretive information

about the history of The Deep RockSwimming Club - the precursor fororganised recreational activities andfacilities in Yarra Bend Park.

• Repair remnant foundation stone.• Conserve Pioneer Memorial Stones

(currently in the park depot) forpossible future use, as an elementfor interpretive purposes.

• Provide interpretive information anddirectional signage to the KooriGarden area.

• Liaise with the City of Yarra toprovide signage from Dights Falls tothe Deep Rock picnic area.

3 B R I V E R V I E W R o l e :• To provide an area of quiet access

to the River flood plain.• To provide an example of basalt

plains vegetation community readilyavailable to visitors.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Target environmental management

to protect and enhance the limitedareas of high conservationimportance along the river bank.

Particularly address weed control forSerrated Tussock and Kikuyu.

• Formalise the walking trail along theriver bank with a mulched surface.

• Continue to support the wetlandarea as an example of pre-contactgrassy woodland and floodplainwetland vegetation associations.

Visitor Management• Install small interpretive shelter at

the wetlands and provide directionalsignage from Yarra Bend Road.

• Provide signage to the river bankwalking trail from the Wetlands.

• Support the use of the remainingbuilding by the existing arts group.

• Formalise the trail system andclearly signpost the link through tothe river, under the Freeway and toFairfield Boathouse.

• Rationalise the size of the ParkDepot, remove the former ParkOffice and revegetate the site toimprove visual and physical links tothe River.

3 C G O L F C O U R S E L O O P

R O A D R o l e :• To continue to provide a major

passive recreational focus fornorthern side of river,accommodating increased usegenerated by the proposedreception centre and associatedfacilities.

• To provide a location for enhancedriver access.

• To form a central starting point forlinks to other popular Park areasand attractions.

• To retain an obvious link with thecultural heritage of the area, with itsexotic vegetation, historic parklandcharacter and formal sports fields inthe treed setting.

• To provide potential for specialevents in the historic setting.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Create formalised river

viewing/access point in the form oftimber decking to the river’s edge.Provide adequate signage toencourage use. Link with pathway


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to Loop road to ensure accessibilityfor all.

• Increase the density of riparianvegetation with selectiverevegetation with predominantlyupper canopy species. Includesome pockets of middle and lowerstorey vegetation to maintaindiversity in the riparian edge.

• Continue weed control strategy forriparian zone, concentrating onwoody species that affect the visualquality of the “bushland” setting.

• Protect bank revegetation area eastof Kanes Bridge.

Visitor Management• Improve car parking in the area

through subtle formalising of existingparking spaces.

• Improve parking for disabledvisitors.

• Upgrade picnic and barbecuefacilities in the upper field areaabove Corben Oval, includingaddition of picnic tables, seating,formal picnic shelters, barbecuesand drinking fountains to the area.

• Rationalise the number of existingtoilet blocks by removing thewestern one and upgrading theCorben Oval toilet facilities.

• Install drinking fountains atappropriate sites throughout area.

• Develop access and circulationstrategy for the Loop Road areathat: . improves and formalises the

path system throughout the areato minimise environmentalimpact; and

. accommodates access forpeople with disabilities to thepicnic areas and Kane’s Bridge.

• Retain Corben Oval for formalsporting activities and socialmatches.

Cultural Heritage Management• Maintain the Loop Road area as the

primary site of exotic vegetationwithin the Park, reflecting thecultural heritage of the area, as wellas the formal and traditionalparkland character these plantingscreate.

• Develop a specific cultural heritageplant management strategy for thearea that addresses the inevitabledecline of the existing plantings and

establishes a methodology for theirreplacement over time.

• Protect and maintain existing stonewalls and steps through the area.

• Develop interpretive signagedetailing the European and Koorihistory of the site.

Z O N E 4G O L F C O U R S EM A N A G E M E N T A R E A

4 G O L F C O U R S E &

F A C I L I T I E S

R o l e :• To provide a quality 18 hole golf

course and high quality associatedfacilities catering for golf course andgeneral park users.

• To provide a quality commercialdriving range as part of diversifyingrecreation opportunity.

• To provide a commercial focus onthe northern side of the river forgolfers and other Park users.

• To contribute to the habitat values ofthe Park, both along the River andwithin the course.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Increase the indigenous vegetation

along the river margin and within thegolf course.

• Continue pest plant and animalcontrol.

Visitor ManagementThe Yarra Bend Trust has entered into aagreement to develop the existing golffacilities with a Function Centre,Restaurant, Kiosk, Pro shop and drivingrange. The development will beintegrated into the Strategy Plan asfollows:• As part of Golf Course

Development, remove Long Ovaland its associated pavilion at thenorth end.

• Liaise with Golf Course developer toensure function centre parking doesnot impinge on Loop Road Areapicnickers.

• Build on the popularity of the GolfCourse to attract new golfers by


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marketing the new development asa key tourist focus with:. improved pro-shop and golf

facilities;. commercial function facilities;

and. commercial driving range.

• Develop a strategy to encourage anincrease in mid-week patronage.

Cultural Heritage Management• Develop a heritage landscape and

tree replacement strategy for thehistorical Asylum period landscapeelements.

• Perform repair works to reversedeterioration to the architecturallynotable Yarra Bend Golf CourseClub House (on the Register of theNational Estate, and classified bythe National Trust).

Z O N E 5T R I G P O I N TM A N A G E M E N T A R E A

5 A W U R U N D J E R I S P U R –

T R I G P O I N T

R o l e :• To be a high quality entry point and

introduction to park from the north-east.

• To provide a passive, low key areawith trails to Trig Point viewing area,an experience of the river andpeaceful recreation opportunities.

• To provide a link to Fairfield Parkfrom the east.

• To contribute to the habitat values ofthe Park, with environmentalmanagement particularlyconcentrating on the Yarra faunacorridor.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Revegetate the high use area near

the Pipe Bridge access point, andthe informal tracks along theriverbank to Chandler HighwayBridge.

• Continue revegetation concentratingon upper and middle storey species.

• Implement weed controlcommensurate with the

environmental importance of thevarying areas, focussing on:. mature Boneseed stands; . large infestations of Serrated

Tussock.• Provide signage to encourage

responsible trail use in the area. Visitor Management• Develop appropriate ‘Front Door’ for

the Park with entry and directionalsignage at the Chandler Highwayand Boulevard intersection,including improved “lead up”signage.

• Investigate the potential for TrigPoint to act as a low key visitorviewing point, with a safe roadcrossing point on the southernstraight section of road and low keysteps and pathways to the Pointfrom that side.

• Discourage pedestrian access toTrig Point at the Boulevard bend.

• Clearly identify access to FairfieldBoathouse from the Trig Point area,with appropriate signage (inassociation with the City of Yarra).

• Develop signage on Main Yarra Trailto Fairfield Boathouse (inassociation with the City of Yarra).

• Formalise kerbside car parkingadjacent to the path to the PipeBridge to open up pedestrian accessto Fairfield Park and Boathousefrom the east.

• Provide enhanced landscape andvisitor amenities (seating anddrinking fountain) at the viewingpoint on the Wurundjeri Spur side ofthe Boulevard.

Cultural Heritage Management• Develop low key interpretive

signage installation at Trig Pointlookout, describing the importanceof the Trig Point, as well as thevarious views and vistas availablefrom the area.

• Develop interpretive signage at thePipe Bridge (in association with Cityof Yarra), highlight the past andpresent importance of the pipebridge.


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Z O N E 6W I L L S M E R EM A N A G E M E N T A R E A

6 A H A I R P I N BE N D

R o l e :• To provide continuity in the Yarra

riparian flora and fauna corridor.• To accommodate passive low level

recreational use. K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Revegetate the cleared (and thin

areas) with upper storey vegetation.• Revegetate erosion areas within the

zone, using middle and upper storeyspecies.

• Continue weed control strategyconcentrating on species affectingbiodiversity.

• Remove the remaining vestiges ofthe former carpark off the Boulevardand revegetate with upper storeyspecies.

Visitor Management• Maintain the current low use trail

along the river margin.• Encourage visitors keeping to the

trail by surfacing it with crushed rockor mulch as appropriate to thelocation, grade and soil stability.

6 B W I L L S S T R E E T /

W I L L S M E R E P R E C I N C T R o l e :• To provide a local park facility on the

edge of the Park to reduce pressureon more sensitive environmentalareas closer to the River.

• To provide a low intensity bushlandwalking experience.

• To contribute to the bushlandcharacter of the Boulevard touristroute.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Reinforce, through revegetation, an

open woodland character in the areaabove the Boulevard to form a visualand physical buffer to Willsmere.Revegetation to consist ofindigenous upper storey species,with exotic lower storey species.

• Control weeds in the zone,concentrating on woody species thataffect the visual qualities of thewoodland.

Visitor Management• Install signage to the low key trail

through the upper eastern portion ofthe zone to encourage use andlinking to the other trail networks ofthe park.

• Provide seating at strategic pointsalong the trails to take advantage ofthe exceptional views.

• Promote the trail between theWillsmere and Bellbird areas.

6 C B E L L B I R D R o l e :• To provide a low intensity picnic and

barbecue area in a bushland setting.• To provide a major point of contact

with river, particularly for waterbased activities.

• To form part of the Yarra riparianflora and fauna corridor.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Implement extensive revegetation of

the open area of Bellbird, creating awoodland character with areas ofseclusion as well as open gatheringareas for larger groups.

• Harden the riverside walking trailwith gravel and/or mulch surfacingas appropriate to the level of use.

• Control weeds in the zone,concentrating on those that affectbiodiversity in the areas ofvegetation in good condition, and onwoody species that affect the visualquality of the area in other locations.

Visitor Management• Reinforce canoe/craft launching

facilities at the site with signposting.• Promote use of the area by canoe

clubs and the like.• Investigate with Vicroads the

opportunities to re-configure theentrance and exits to Bellbird tomaximise traffic visibility and safety,including the provision of a right turnlane for traffic entering from thenorth.


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• Install more seating throughoutBellbird Picnic Area with views to theriver.

• Establish directional signage withinthe area.

• Develop simple loop trail around theBellbird area and identify links tolonger walks along the River.

Z O N E 7S T U D L E Y P A R KM A N A G E M E N T A R E A

7 A S T U D L E Y P A R KB O A T H O U S E P R E C I N C T

R o l e :• To continue to be the historic focus

and heart of park, providing adestination for tourists, anintroduction to the Park andinterpretive information.

• To provide for socialising recreationat a restaurant/kiosk close to theriver in a bushland setting.

• To provide for picnic and barbecuepassive recreational opportunities.

• To be the focus of commercial waterbased activities.

• To contribute to the Yarra flora andfauna corridor.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Manage the existing indigenous and

exotic vegetation to accommodatethe high intensity visitor usage.

• Revegetate as necessary with upperand middle storey species toreinforce the site’s bushlandcharacter.

• Address the weed control anderosion issues along the river bankby implementing revegetation anddirecting and controlling visitoraccess to specifically reinforced (eg.decked) locations.

Visitor Management• Further develop the park information

centre to act as the main informationsource on Yarra Bend Park.Promote it as the directionalinformation centre for the Park withclear directions to the various looptrails available from the site.

• In liaison with the leasee on the site,develop a marketing plan for StudleyPark focussing on local, nationaland international visitors.

Cultural Heritage Management• Adopt 1992 Conservation Analysis

and Plan (Lewis/Aitken)recommendations as the basis forthe conservation actions for theStudley Park Boathouse.

• Maintain Kanes Bridge in functioningcondition, to current appearance.

7 B S T U D L E Y P A R K L O W E R

B U S H L A N D R o l e :• To provide an environmental

“example” for visitors (tourists)supporting the “bush in the city”experience.

• To provide a contrasting visitorexperience adjacent to the moreintensive Boathouse precinct.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Harden the primary trails through

the area with gravel and/or mulchsurfaces to reduce erosion damage.

• Close and revegetate the minortrails through the area.

• Close off and revegetate erosionareas.

• Control spread of weed speciesaffecting biodiversity, such asWandering Jew, Angled Onion andIvy.

Visitor Management• Clearly sign the trail connections to

Studley Park Boathouse precinct, as


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well as the wider trail network in thearea.

• Develop interpretive signage andother material on the importantenvironmental features of this areaof the park.

• Encourage access along theBoulevard to Bellbird and close offsteep trail down the escarpment.

7 C S T U D L E Y P A R K UP P E R

B U S H L A N D R o l e :• To provide a high quality visual entry

point and introduction to Park fromeast.

• To form part of the Park’senvironmental resource for habitatprovision.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Remove the existing buildings and

exotic species on site andrevegetate the area to openbushland (with indigenous species).

• Manage the area of good qualityvegetation to protect its diversity.

• Control weed species through thearea, concentrating on speciesthreatening the biodiversity of thearea.

Visitor Management• Improve the trail connections to

Studley Park Boathouse andinvestigate creating a safe crossingpoint on the Boulevard.

• Sign the area to create Parkawareness by Studley Park Roadusers.

7 D S T U D L E Y P O I N T L O O P

R O A D R o l e :• To form part of the Park’s

environmental resource for habitatprovision.

• To provide a high quality viewingpoint facilitating exceptional viewsover the Park and to the City.

• To provide low intensity access toDights Falls and the Yarra’s edge.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Undertake an environmental risk

assessment to determine theoptimum location for an elevatedviewing point in the centre of theLoop Road.

• Develop and manage the viewingpoint to minimise impact on this areaof important vegetation.

• Maintain and continue the recentrevegetation programs carried out atGalatea Point and Studley Point.

• Continue weed control concentratingon species affecting biodiversity inthe area.

Visitor Management• To increase public use of the area,

develop seating facilities at keylocations.

• Improve signage to viewing areas.• Improve the landscape setting

around the historic marker.• Encourage use of the Loop Road for

cycling events and promote thesethroughout the Park as spectatorevents.

• Formalise the trail from the LoopRoad to Dights Falls.

• Improve the entrance to GalateaPoint.

• Develop a loop walk around StudleyPoint, providing low key seating ingood viewing locations.

Cultural Heritage Management• Continue to preserve ruins of the

pumping station.• Add to interpretive information about

the site’s history, including thepumping station.

• Retain pumping station relatedsurviving landform and access track.

• Conserve the remnant earlierJohnson Street Bridge bluestoneabutment, and retain landform ofeastern approach road cutting andalignment.

• Provide interpretive informationabout Bridge history (along withother river crossings).

• Conserve Explorers Memorial Cairn,and provide interpretive informationabout related historical events.


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Z O N E 8L O W E R Y A R R A M A N A G E M E N TA R E A

8 A P A R 3 G O L F C O U R S E ,

S T U D L E Y P A R KR E C E P T I O N S & N O R R I SR E S E R V E

R o l e :• To contribute to the diversity of

recreational opportunities in thePark including: - Par 3 Golf Course - Commercial development.

• To provide a main entry point to thePark and tourist access to theBoulevard.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• As senescence of existing exotic

vegetation occurs, revegetate NorrisReserve with Yellow Gum Woodlandspecies so that it reinforces theoverall landscape character of thePark to travellers on Studley ParkRoad.

• Close and revegetate the trails anderosion areas on the escarpmentbelow the Boulevard.

• Reinforce bushland vegetationaround the sloping banks of CollinsOval.

Visitor Management• Provide clear signage on Studley

Park Road at Walmer Street toformalise this as an important Parkentry point.

• Upgrade the upper car park to ahigher standard.

• Support the redevelopment of theCafé and promote the developmentof further associated and compatiblecommercial uses on the adjacentArthur Rylah Oval or fish hatcherysites to add to the range ofrecreation opportunities in the Park.

• Prepare a plan for the long termupgrading of the Par 3 golf coursewhich ensures its viability over thenext ten years.

• Promote the Collins Oval area as aDogs off Lead site for the southernend of the Park.

8 B A N D R E W S R E S E R V E R o l e :• To provide a recreation node on the

Yarra Trail.• To provide improved recreational

opportunities for residents of thedense urban areas to the south andsouth-west.

• To continue to provide a local parkfunction.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Maintain the exotic vegetation

character of the main park areanorth of Collins Bridge.

• Continue weed control in the zone,with emphasis on the extensivewoody species including Elms andother exotic trees.

• Close and revegetate existingeroded tracks.

Visitor Management• Develop picnic facilities at the

reserve, suitable for moderate sizedgroups.

• Subject to investigations as to thefeasibility of developing toiletfacilities above the flood plain atAndrews Reserve: . develop barbecue facilities; and . investigate the potential to

develop a small carpark off theBoulevard.

• Through the addition of signage andimproved path layout, encouragevisitors who use Collins oval to crossthe Boulevard on the straightersection to the south-east.

• Install facilities for dog owners toremove droppings from the Park.

• Encourage the City of Yarra toregularly monitor the safety ofCollins Bridge.

• Install drinking fountains atappropriate sites adjacent to theMain Yarra Trail.

• Provide bicycle parking facilitiesadjacent to the Main Yarra Trail.

• Appropriately sign the Park as a reststop along the Trail.

• Provide signage to river accessramp.

• Provide park information shelter.


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• Work with the City of Yarra toimprove the aesthetic quality of theCollins Bridge entry to the Park.

8 C D I C K I N S O N R E S E R V E R o l e :• To form part of the Park’s

environmental resource for habitatprovision.

• To provide a local park facility.• To be part of the Main Yarra Trail

connection through the Park.• To provide a quality entrance point

to the Park from the south. K e y S t r a t e g i e s : Environmental Management• Maintain and protect the high quality

vegetation in this area.• Continue weed control,

concentrating on the Hawthorninfestations and species affectingbiodiversity, such as Angled Onion.

• Revegetate with upper storeyspecies in weed eradication zonesand areas of sparse indigenousvegetation cover.

• Formalise and rationalise thenetwork of trails through the area.Close and revegetate redundanttrails.

• Work with cyclists to encourageresponsible Park use.

Visitor Management• Provide low key picnic facilities

appropriate to the area’s local parkrole.

• Encourage the responsibleauthorities to review the surfacing ofthe Walmer Street Bridge to ensuresafety of cyclists and pedestrians.

Z O N E 9T H E B O U L E V A R D R o l e :• To provide a high quality scenic

drive through inner Melbourne.• To form part of the Park’s tourist

circulation route.

K e y S t r a t e g i e s :Environmental Management• Work with Vicroads to increase the

indigenous vegetation edge to theBoulevard.

Visitor Management• Promote the Boulevard as a tourist

drive through at a variety of touristinformation sources.

• Develop a signage strategy for theBoulevard to clarify parkinglocations, viewing points and otherfacilities.

• Create clear and visually strongentry points to the Boulevard at thenorthern and southern ends.

• Liaise with VicRoads regarding anyproposals for the Boulevard whichaddress improved safety forpedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

• Explore the potential of theBoulevard as a venue for sportingevents such as fun runs, cycling,triathlons and biathlons.

Cultural Heritage Management• Encourage Vicroads to conserve the

structures associated with theoriginal Boulevard - includingretaining walls and edging.

• Provide interpretive informationabout this depression era work-creation initiative.


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5 IMPLEMENTATIONImplementation of the Yarra Bend ParkStrategy Plan has in some ways alreadybegun, through the process of preparingthe plan. The detailed implementation ofthis Plan over its 5 year life will requireclear priorities and phasing, as well asmonitoring and assessment over time.

5 . 1 M A N A G E M E N TR E S O U R C E S

The allocation of resources to the tasksand strategies outlined in this Plan is thedomain of the Park Business Plan. Thisdocument will be prepared annually byPark Management and will address:• financial management and priorities

for the coming year;• allocation of recurrent and capital

budgets in accordance with keystrategies and priorities;

• applications for specific purposegrants;

• review of service contracts.

5 . 2 C O N S U L T A T I O N A N DC O O R D I N A T I O N

In addition to these important areas ofBusiness Planning, the direction ofcommunity involvement in the Park isvital. This reflects not only the“ownership” benefits of communityinvolvement but the reality of a situationof limited resources.

The Park will continue to supportFriends Groups in their efforts toimprove the environmental qualities ofthe Park and direct those energies andinvolvements to support the priorities setout in this Strategy Plan. The Park willcontinue to consult and coordinateworks with the various other bodies withresponsibility and/or interest in the Park,including:• City of Boroondara;• City of Darebin;• City of Yarra;• Melbourne Water; and• Merri Creek Management

Committee.

5 . 3 P R I O R I T I E S

From the strategies and tasks set out inthis Plan, it is clear that a number of keyareas must be addressed to achieve thehigh quality of Park envisaged for YarraBend. In principle, the implementationof this Strategy Plan will address thefollowing areas of need:• ensuring public safety and security

within the Park;• protecting and enhancing the

environmental diversity and valuesof the Park;

• improving the quality and diversity ofthe visitor’s experience in the Park.

From those principles, the strategies thatwill be given priority in theimplementation of the Plan will be thosethat address:• implementation of the

recommendations contained in theRisk Management Assessmentprepared for the Park;

• implementation of the environmentalmanagement strategies, particularlyin relation to the River and areas ofhigh quality vegetation;

• upgrading the existing services andfacilities that provide the mostbenefit to the greatest number ofvisitors; and then

• broadening or diversifying therecreation opportunities through theimplementation of new services andfacilities.

5 . 4 I M P L E M E N T A T I O NP H A S E S

While the Park enjoys a reasonablyconsistent income level, this incomeleaves limited scope for the sort ofsignificant capital improvements andinitiatives outlined in this Plan. Becauseof the unpredictable availability ofspecific grants and other incomesources, and the consequent effect onthe implementation time-line, phases ofimplementation are proposed as follows:

P h a s e 1• Address risk management across

the Park, implementing the priorityinitiatives of the Risk Evaluation andAssessment Report.


31

• Implement the environmentalinitiatives that concentrate on:. protection and enhancement ofareas with highest environmentalvalues;. protecting and extending theriparian corridors;. addressing the key threats tohigh quality environmental areasand the environmental diversity ofthe Park, such as trail and bankerosion, weed invasion etc.

• Upgrading of the existing servicesand facilities to acceptablestandards, concentrating firstly inthe key visitor use areas beforebroadening the upgrading to lesserused portions of the Park. Suchupgrading will include:. toilets;. shelters;. tracks;. signage;. picnic facilities;. fencing;. playgrounds.

• Accommodation and support for theGolf Club redevelopment projectwhich is an initiative that provides asignificant upgrade to facilities andservices to all Park users.

P h a s e 2• Continue to implement

environmental managementinitiatives.

• Continue (to completion) theupgrading of the existing visitorfacilities and services.

• Commence the Deep Rock familypicnic area proposal, with earlyworks of plantings and simple picnicfacility additions.

P h a s e 3• Continue to implement

environmental managementinitiatives.

• Complete the Deep Rock familypicnic area with further facilities andthe regional playground.

5 . 5 M O N I T O R I N G A N DR E V I E W

Regular monitoring and review of thisPlan is fundamental to its success.Monitoring of the direction set by thestrategies and review of theirimplementation allows the Plan to be adocument that can react to changedconditions and sometimes changingneeds.

To ensure the continuing relevance ofthe Plan therefore, the following willoccur:• An annual Business Plan will be

prepared by Park Management thatidentifies:. critical needs and priorities forthe coming year;. a review of progress againstaims for the previous year;

• An environmental assessment,based on the process established inthe Environmental ManagementPlan.

• Ongoing monitoring of visitornumbers to allow control anddirection of visitors to the variousdesignated parts of the Park.

• Regular visitor feedback on theperformance of the Park through theCustomer Satisfaction Monitorsurveys, together with a specificresponse to identified needs orconcerns within the Business Plan.

• Regular feedback and review withcommunity and ‘friends’ groupsinvolved in the Park.

In addition to these procedures, it iscrucial that the Strategy Plan bereviewed at the end of a 5 period toensure Park Management is best placedto respond and adapt to changing needsand requirements environmentally,socially and economically.


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B I B L I O G R A P H Y

Building Services Agency, Ex-NPS Toilet Facilities – Building Condition Assessment,August 1997.

Building Services Agency, Strategic Facility Assessment, August 1997.

Chris Dance Land Design & Fulcrum Town Planners, Yarra Bend Fairfield AreaDevelopment Opportunities, February 1997.

KPMG Management Consulting Pty Ltd, Melbourne Riverlands – Regional TourismDevelopment Plan Final Report, February, 1997.

Leigh and Orange Consultants, Proposed Golf Centre at Yarra Bend Golf Course for MrBruce Riley.

Marsh & McLennan, Yarra Bend Park Risk Management Report, July 1997.

Melbourne Parks and Waterways, Brimbank Park and Horseshoe Bend Farm SettingPlan, November, 1996.

Ministry for Planning and Environment, Lower Yarra River Concept Plan 1986.

Ministry for Planning and Environment, Middle Yarra River Concept Plan.

Parks Victoria, Yarra Bend Park Heritage Conservation Plan, Planning and DevelopmentDivision, December 1998.

Parks Victoria, Yarra Bend Park, Environmental Management Plan, December, 1998.

Tourism Victoria, Strategic Business Plan 1997-2001 Building Partnerships.

Yarra Bend Park Trust, Yarra Bend Park Management Plan, 1990.

Yarra Bend Park Trust, Yarra Bend Park Progress Report, December 1996.

the yarra bend park strategy plan is approved for

Documents