here - Victorian Environmental Assessment Council

existence as a saltmarsh/swamp and a few of the saltmarsh plants found in the park are of
significance such as Halosarcia pergranulata (Shrubby Samphire). Given the fact that saltmarsh
is a threatened ecosystem it is important to foster this regrowth and protect the saltmarsh around
the saltwater lake and south west of the park between the Redgum Lagoon and the pump station.
The park features significant lakes and wetlands and these, together with the vegetation, provide
an ideal habitat for both water and land based birds, particularly during prolonged periods of
drought. Over 120 bird species have been recorded.
In recent years and particularly in 2010, the population of amphibians has grown. The Common
Eastern Froglet is present and can be heard most days. Striped Marsh Frog, Spotted Marsh Frog
and the recently discovered Plains Froglet have all been recorded in the past. A threatened
species, the Growling Grass Frog was recorded in the park in 2000 and could be expected to
thrive there if reintroduced after conditions are made suitable by securing greater inflows of
stormwater.
The park is situated in a pivotal location between the lower reaches of the Yarra and Port Phillip
Bay. This area was particularly interesting prior to European settlement with the mouth of the
Yarra being so close to where the park is situated today.
Within the park there are stunning views of the city skyline, the lakes, the Westgate Bridge, the
docks and the Yarra River across to Yarraville and the rolling landscape is punctuated with Lyn
Moore‟s imposing Earth Series sculptures.
More visitation
The Park is seen from the Westgate Bridge by thousands every day but its potential to attract visitors has
not been fully realised. The Friends consider that the revegetation, though far from complete, has
reached a stage where it can be properly appreciated for the above values. Better promotion and signs
identifying flora and fauna of significance would help achieve this, as would better mapping of the
cycling and walking routes connecting the bay to the city via the park. More suitably located toilets,
more sheltered seating at vista points may assist. The Friends are currently considering the value of
constructing a bird hide on the freshwater lake which might attract bird watchers and families. We hope
to promote the park to the growing population of Docklands and Southbank for whom ready access to
public parks is limited.
Extending the Park
A review of the land that surrounds Westgate Park, especially to its south, shows significant areas of
under-utilised land in public ownership. While this is a lost opportunity to improve the environment, the
neglected state of this land is also a threat to surrounding areas through the spread of weeds and feral
animals. VicRoads controls the land under the bridge and the Melbourne Ports Corporation owns the
land adjacent to the park from the River and currently uses the Port Melbourne Council depot in Todd
Road for security operations. We are unclear about the current ownership of this site. The Howe Parade
Extension borders the Park to the south and whilst this must remain an easement, consideration should
be given to a natural extension of what has been done to date at Westgate Park into this and other
adjacent areas.
The Friends have already planted areas adjacent to the river bank and upstream of its boundary.