Lobethal Bushland Park, previously a long unburnt remnant, was entirely consumed by the Cudlee Creek Fire in December.
As a matter of priority Council permitted several animal welfare organisations to enter the park and assist with rescue and treatment of injured native fauna. The park was otherwise closed to the public until the safety of walking trails could be established.
In mid-to-late January a qualified arborist made tree assessments along the trail network and then the Australian Defence Force and Team Rubicon volunteers assisted Council staff in making trees safe and clearing debris.
The Park is now beginning to reopen to the public, with several trails opened the week ending 14 February, and more to come after necessary repairs to bridges, boardwalks, and trail markers. It is anticipated that the full reopening will take up to three months to complete and Council urges visitors to remain vigilant about safety and remain only in the areas of the part deemed safe for use.
Signs of recovery are all over the Park with thanks to some summer rain. From small re-sprouting native grasses and eucalypts to butterflies, skinks, and woodland birds, we are beginning to see positive signs of rejuvenation.
