Paratea Flora and Fauna Reserve

Paratea Reserve is one of the best intact examples of native grassy woodland in the Frankston municipality, which is an endangered vegetation type.The 7.7ha reserve is an excellent site for botanical studies or bird watching.

With a rich and diverse flora, Paratea Reserve is a haven for many birds. The aboriginal word Paratea, meaning ‘pretty flowers’, describes the reserve perfectly, particularly in spring. It is renowned for being one of the best intact remnant indigenous grasslands in the Frankston area.

History

Two sections of pristine bushland, once known as Clipperton’s Reserve, were purchased from the Clipperton family in 1929 and 1932. During the 1960s, Paratea Pre-School was built in the southern section of the reserve. The archery club — Bowmen of Frankston — used another section for over 20 years, until their relocation to Baxter Park in 1986. In 1981, it became a reserve to protect the flora and fauna, and it was named Paratea in 1986.