By NICOLE VALICEK
THE FULL potential of the Truganina Explosives Reserve in Altona is almost ready to be enjoyed by visitors-but it still needs a lot of work.
Surrounded by the high metal fence opposite the Kooringal Golf Club in Queen Street, Altona, the 16 hectares of land have been dormant for many years undisturbed by the development surrounding it.
“The Explosive Reserve is one of Melbourne’s last unique and beautiful coastal spaces of archaeological, geological, geomorphological, fauna, floral and cultural significance with direct frontage to Port Phillip Bay,” Truganina Explosives Reserve Preservation Society (TERPS) president Jack Hallowell said.
Local residents formed the TERPS and with the assistance of the Hobsons Bay City Council worked to protect the site, and maintain it as a significant piece of open park land.
In June 2000 the State Government appointed the City of Hobsons Bay as the committee of management to administer the former explosives reserve for use as a recreational park.
“Many thanks are due to the local residents who undertook this fight, and helped to achieve this result.”
Mr Hallowell said a detailed master plan for the Explosive Reserve has now been agreed to by the State Department of Environment and Primary Industry.
“Council and the TERPS now have a clear direction forward.”
Mr Hallowell said the group are eager to get back to work on the reserve and are looking for volunteers to help beautify the land, plant trees and install plant signage and pavers.
“We’re pleased as punch the master plan went though … we’re looking forward to getting back and doing some work.”
The group’s first workday will coincide with the park’s open day on 2 March.
For more information contact Jack on 9315 6851, or Bob Hawkins on 9369 1496.
