Habitat Restoration Project progressing across key bushland sites

In Summary

Ecological thinning has been completed at four bushland locations across Greater Shepparton to support the health and resilience of native vegetation following the 2022 flood event.
The project is funded through the State Government’s Flood Recovery Funding and is being delivered under a Conservation Work Exemption approved by DEECA.
Selective thinning of young River Red Gums reduces overcrowding, improving canopy health, tree growth, habitat quality and biodiversity.
Next steps include installing nest boxes and placing habitat logs at Shepparton and Kialla sites before the end of 2025.

The project, funded through State Government’s Flood Recovery Funding, is being delivered under a Conservation Work Exemption approved by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

Contractors have carried out ecological thinning, which involves selectively removing overcrowded young River Red Gums to reduce competition for water, sunlight, and nutrients, helping mature trees and native plants thrive. This work has taken place at four locations:

90 McFarlane Road, Mooroopna
Botanic Gardens, Kialla
Broken River corridor between Archer Road and Hassett Street, Shepparton
Boulevard Bush Reserve, Shepparton

Geraldine Christou, Director Sustainable Development, said the works will deliver long-term environmental benefits.

“This project is about improving the health and resilience of our bushland following the floods. By reducing competition for resources, we’re supporting the growth of mature River Red Gums and creating better habitat for local wildlife,” she said.

The thinning process reduces overcrowding caused by flood impacts and land-use legacies, allowing trees to grow larger and thrive. Benefits include improved canopy health, increased tree hollows, enhanced understorey diversity, and better habitat quality for native species.

Next steps include installing nest boxes and placing large habitat logs at Shepparton and Kialla sites before the end of the year.

For more information visit our Sustainability and Environment webpage or contact Council’s Sustainability and Environment team on 5832 9700.