By Cameron Weston
HOBSONS Bay City Council will develop a tree and shrub planting plan for part of Jawbone Conservation Reserve in response to community pressure.
The decision follows a petition with 117 signatures being presented to council demanding a coordinated approach to planting in the Rifle Range Reserve, an area of Jawbone managed by the council.
The existing council master plan for the reserve outlines a broad strategic direction but does not include details of planting design, including species to be planted or plant numbers and locations.
The detailed planting plan will be developed in consultation with the community and the Friends of Williamstown Wetlands.
The council will consider allocating $20,000 for the work in the 2007/ 2008 budget.
Williamstown North Ward councillor Peter Hemphill said residents were concerned about the spread of myoporum plants (commonly known as boobialla).
“The roots (of the boobialla) can get into the walls of houses … and residents could end up with structural damage.
“It is a major concern because the roots can spread a long way.”
Cr Hemphill said residents were also concerned about long grasses in the area attracting snakes, particularly along walking paths and near playgrounds.
However, Friends of Williamstown Wetlands president Ian Rae accused the petitioners of acting out of self-interest, with no consideration for the welfare of the reserve or previous efforts to preserve it.
“We have had a problem with plants growing up in front of houses, but some people have acted irresponsibly and just come out and cut them down.”
Mr Rae said local residents made no effort to get in touch with the friends group, which he said would nonetheless support the plan and have a say in the final product.
Mr Rae also disputed the contention that long grass in the area would attract snakes, saying snakes had always been in the area and did not pose a serious safety concern to residents or park users.
