At our Term 2 TEN, 2022 we visited the Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve. Once a public golf course, the park is now being transformed into a unique reserve for wildlife, creating a biodiversity refuge for exploration, education and enjoyment by the community!
The session included a guided walk through the reserve with local naturalist, educator and Elsternwick Park Association member, Gio Fitzpatrick. We also heard from the EPA President, Nat Davie, and Sienna, a grade 6 student at Elwood Primary School, who has initiated a Nature Ambassadors program at her school where students can help promote and conserve biodiversity in the park.
You can read about the event on the EPA blog here!
We thank the City of Port Phillip and Bayside City Council for supporting these Teacher Environment Network meetings and professional learning opportunities.
Below are a list of some useful resources about the reserve as well as biodiversity curriculum activities for your classroom.
Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve
Bayside City Council – Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve
Here you will find information and updates about the development and the Masterplan.
Elsternwick Park Association
You can also join the Facebook EPA group for community posts and updates on any upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Videos
Watch this progress video to look at Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve’s journey so far
Tree Hollows and Nest Boxes with Gio – EcoCentre TV
The Secret Lives of Our Urban Birds, ABC documentary
Gio Fitzpatrick featured in the abc documentary about birds in urban environments and features the Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve. A great tune-in activity for students!
Elster Creek Wildlife video – created and narrated by Gio
Baykeepers: Time of Chaos – Humans have long been entrusted to protect Nairm (Port Phillip bay). N’arweet Carolyn Briggs, Boon Wurrung Elder, shares the Time of Chaos story which tell how Nairm was formed and why we must continue to protect it.
Elster Creek Wildlife Walk
In collaboration with St Columba’s Primary School, a free to download brochure that takes you on a journey from Elsternwick Park Nature Reserve along Elster Creek and out to the bay. You’ll learn about the history of the area as well as discovering some of the unique wildlife you may meet along the way!
