A spectacular grasstree and wildflower reserve with walking tracks up to 2km in length.
Dogs are not permitted in most of Grasstree Park as it is an important wildlife refuge protected by a conservation covenant with the Victorian Trust for Nature. Dogs, especially off leash dogs, are a threat to the kangaroos, possums, birds and other wildlife that live there. Dogs are only allowed in the central mown grass part of the reserve. Refer to the following diagram for details on dog regulations. Penalties apply.
Over the years, Grasstree Park was used for night soil (sewage) disposal, rubbish dumping and farming. The highly disturbed parts of the reserve were colonised by Coast Tea-tree, displacing the native grasstrees and heathy wildflowers. Council is progressively restoring the reserve through a combination of burning, woody weed removal and planting. The aim is to re-establish the grasstree plains community on disturbed areas so it looks similar to the intact southwestern corner of the reserve. The works will also reduce bushfire fuel loads. At times, you might see smoke or stumps from these restoration works.
Phytophthora cinnamomi, a soil-borne plant pathogen, is a new threat to the health of Grasstree Park. Phytophthora can quickly cause the death of susceptible species such as grasstrees and banksias and was first observed in the reserve in 2022. Any activity that moves soil, water or plant material can spread the disease. Examples include the soles of shoes, dogs and car tyres. It's not just native plants that are impacted. Garden plants such as many fruit trees and planted natives are also be susceptible, so it is recommended you avoid areas of Grasstree Park where plant deaths are visible.
1430 Surf Coast Highway, Torquay 3228 View Map
1430 Surf Coast Highway , Torquay 3228