Sweetwater Creek Lower Nature Reserve

Sweetwater Creek extends from the foothills of Frankston Reservoir to Port Philip Bay at the base of Olivers Hill. Thirteen hectares of remnant bushland surrounding the lower section of the creek is protected for its flora, fauna, geological and cultural heritage values. Walking tracks wind their way along the creek from swamps to steep gullies and floodplains to foothills.

Sweetwater Creek Track and Signage review (underway)

Project Scope

This project aims to rationalise the track and wayfinding signage network to achieve a cohesive network of walking tracks that offers visitors the opportunity to thoughtfully explore Lower Sweetwater Creek, immersing in the rich biodiversity, unique creek landscape and cultural heritage without impacting on the natural values of the area.

Why Participate?

Help us ensure our tracks are safe and enjoyable.
Improve the clarity and usefulness of our signage.
Contribute to the preservation and enhancement of our natural environment.

Thank you for your participation in the community survey. The survey is now closed. A summary of the feedback can be viewed in the related information section.

If you have any feedback or questions in regard to the project, please email environment@frankston.vic.gov.au

Background

Lower Sweetwater Creek Reserve is a natural area of 14 hectares. The reserve is managed by Frankston City Council with Melbourne Water having responsibility for the hydraulic function of the Creek. Sweetwater Reserve comprises of two sections of Sweetwater Creek that differ in character but are part of the one catchment. This project focuses on Lower Sweetwater Creek, the steep sided section running from near Nepean Highway to Baden Powell Drive

Lower Sweetwater Creek has an extensive network of recreational walking tracks, boardwalks and feature bridges that connect to the surrounding suburban road network as listed above. Mostly the tracks are earth formed with a one metre wide surface, but a few tracks also providing fire access are earthen vehicular tracks. Some steeper track sections are constructed as steps, and the major creek crossings are by one steel and three timber framed pedestrian bridges. The tracks are used for walking, jogging, and for walking dogs (on leash). The tracks also provide access for maintenance and revegetation work.

The natural areas of Lower Sweetwater Creek are managed for their ecological value by Frankston City Natural Reserves rangers, with the invaluable assistance of the reserves longstanding Environmental Friends Group, Action Sweetwater Creek (ASW). ASW has been active within this reserve for over 50 years, with their mission statement being ‘to encourage the community to sustain, develop and enjoy the natural beauty and ecology of Sweetwater Creek Nature Reserve’. More information about ASW can be found here: Sweetwater Creek Environment | Mornington Peninsula Nature Reserve

The existing network has evolved from historic establishment of the reserve, and in some cases, unplanned walking tracks. These private or unauthorised tracks require review due to damage to native vegetation and for public safety. The network tracks are generally in good condition but some sections require attention.

Action Sweetwater Creek (ASC Inc)

For almost 50 years local residents have been volunteering in Sweetwater Creek Nature Reserve to support the restoration of the creek and natural environment to its original state. The local action group has a membership of 250 local residents and working bees are held each week to propagate indigenous plants for the reserve, as well as undertaking planting, light clearing tasks and weeding working in collaboration with Frankston City Council and Melbourne Water. Some of the activities undertaken by the action group include:

Invite experts to lead walks on birds, edible weeds and flora, birds
Representing the community to Council about development projects
Protecting the Reserve's Indigenous integrity

Membership of ASC Inc. is open to anyone interested in the preservation of indigenous nature reserves. To find out more: Action Sweetwater Creek Inc - Sweetwater Creek Volunteers