Banyule is fortunate to have many important conservation and wildlife reserves and open green spaces that support our local flora and fauna. Our community feels connected to these places and cares about how they are managed and protected.
One place of significance is Darebin Parklands. The reserve has natural bush, a country feel and is enhanced by Darebin Creek. The area was once home to a dairy farm, vineyard and quarry. There are many areas to explore and numerous options for walkers, cyclists and picnickers.
Review of land management and catchment coordination
Banyule City Council is reviewing the delivery of land management services for Darebin Parklands, including Rockbeare Park, and the Darebin Creek catchment. The review will support Council to meet its Integrated Water Management obligations, enhance the ecology and biodiversity of Darebin Creek and surrounding areas and determine whether Council’s current funding and management arrangements are helping to protect and enhance these natural areas.
Banyule has partnered with Darebin Creek Management Committee (DCMC) for over 40 years on the management of the parklands, and DCMC and community have been responsible for its restoration from what was once a weed infested and neglected area, into what is present today.
Along with the Cities of Yarra, Darebin and Whittlesea, Banyule City Council contributes funding to DCMC. Banyule and Darebin also provide funding to DCMC to manage the Darebin Parklands, on behalf of both Councils.
DCMC is a not-for-profit organisation that receives around 60% of its funding from the four council partners, and 40% from various other government and non-government sources. All of the funding received by DCMC is used for the delivery of management and projects in the parklands and along the creek, including supporting and working with volunteers and groups to improve the Creeks' ecology and biodiversity, protect cultural heritage and enhance the health and wellbeing of community.
View the DCMC current area of management and Darebin Creek catchment maps.
Banyule City Council funding to DCMC in 2025 will be $250,812.80 (Banyule funds $80,270.46 to DCMC for Darebin Creek catchment coordination and $168,022.37 for Darebin Parklands land management coordination).
This review is being led by Banyule City Council in collaboration with the key funding partners. We are also working closely with DCMC, Traditional Custodians and local community groups as part of this process.
Get involved
We can all play a part in the future management of these natural areas.
There are a couple of ways to get involved:
- complete the online survey below
- tell us your ideas for the future of Darebin Parklands and Darebin Creek using the interactive tool below.
Survey
The future of Darebin Parklands and Darebin Creek
What do you imagine Darebin Parklands and the Darebin Creek catchment to be like in 10 years?
Share your thoughts about the future ecology, biodiversity, recreation and general community use of these spaces (max 140 characters).
6 November, 2024
Mel says:
Clean, safe, well kept, free from rubbish, dead trees and shurbs, healthy water and biodiverse
5 November, 2024
Karen says:
Continues to be a leading example of collaboration across council boundaries to support the best environmental and community outcomes.
5 November, 2024
Karen says:
Remains a beacon for leadership in ecological restoration and community access to natural bushland in our increasingly urban environment.
5 November, 2024
Greenman says:
A treasured natural realm managed for the benefit of nature and the community. A place where nature and people are connected.
4 November, 2024
Zach says:
A restored wildlife corridor that provides an ecologically biodiverse habitat. A place 4 the community to ride their bikes & see a platypus.
30 October, 2024
NSH says:
An environment that enhances our local fauna and flora, connects our community and provides space for passive recreation activities.
29 October, 2024
Paul says:
A haven for local fauna to move freely through the landscape with well-structured and connected indigenous vegetation.
10 October, 2024
Belinda_BCC says:
Example: In 10 years, Darebin Parklands and Creek will be a vibrant sanctuary with clean waters, wildlife, and community.
10 October, 2024
Belinda_BCC says:
In 10 years, Darebin Parklands will be a lush, thriving haven of biodiversity and community, with clean waters and vibrant green spaces
Our community is made up of diverse cultures, beliefs, abilities, bodies, sexualities, ages and genders. We are committed to access, equity, participation and rights for everyone: principles which empower, foster harmony and increase the wellbeing of an inclusive community.
Banyule City Council is proud to acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as traditional custodians of the land and we pay respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, past, present and emerging, who have resided in the area and have been an integral part of the region’s history.