In 2011 the Friends of Werribee Gorge & Long Forest Mallee, working with the Moorabool Shire, achieved recognition of River Red Gums in the Bacchus Marsh Valley in the local planning scheme.
Intelligent use of local planning schemes can be an important means of local community groups engaging with local decision-makers and achieving good environmental outcomes for the long-term benefit of the community. It can also be an energising, fascinating and educational process for all concerned.
Protection of remnant River Red Gums was built on a comprehensive survey of more than 1400 Red Gums in the Valley that identified their age, status and environmental roles (many of the trees are > 400 years old!).
Image: Jade Stephens on Unsplash