Friends of Emu Bottom Wetlands Reserve

Emu Bottom Wetlands Reserve was once part of the historic Emu Bottom Run, of which the homestead, Victoria's oldest, still stands on neighbouring land and is used as a reception centre.

FEBWR, have worked in partnership with Hume Council Environment Unit, to care for 32ha along Jacksons Creek and the adjacent billabong on the historic Emu Bottom Run near Sunbury. Help with willow and weed removal by Melbourne Water is also acknowledged.

Almost 25 years’ planting and steady work of community volunteers has transformed the Reserve from an area denuded of trees (see right) to one of Sunbury's prime natural attractions. Weeds have been removed, and vegetation along the creek and around the well-loved billabong has been restored using indigenous plants. Platypus viewing stations have been built overlooking the deep pools, which are prime platypus habitat.

We have six community plantings this year, working now in the area south of the main Reserve to restore habitat in this old farmed area. We warmly welcome both new members of our group and also casual volunteers at the planting days.

Come and join our plantings, meet your neighbours and enjoy a free lunch afterwards. We generally meet at the Racecourse Rd carpark.

Transformation of the Reserve:

Early planting at the Billabong: