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A revegetation project at Jubilee Park (Wurrumbit Birrng Yaar) will create a better environment for Merri River platypus.
A number of old cypress trees will be removed from the river bank – including some toppled by recent strong wind - and replaced with native species.
The project is a partnership with the Glenelg-Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and aligns with the aims of the Green Warrnambool strategy.
“We’ve got a great opportunity to restore habitat that suits native animals including platypus,” Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said.
“We know that trees such as willow and cypress along our rivers reduce habitat and food supply for aquatic Australian animals.
“They degrade the river bank and compete with native plants.
“The project will benefit not only platypus but also native fish, birds and invertebrates.
“With some of these cypress trees having recently fallen into the river we have a great opportunity, in dealing with these trees, to have a positive ecological impact.”
While the trees are being removed a section at the northern end of Jubilee Park will be closed from March 31 to April 11.
As restoration work continues some areas of the park will remain off-limits during April and May.
Weather-permitting, native trees, shrubs and grasses will be planted from June to August.