Black Hill Reserve’s management proposals have mostly been given the green light, but two controversial issues have been put on hold.
The reintroduction of threatened wildlife species and the construction of a predator-proof fence around the reserve will remain in limbo until further community consultation is carried out.
Macedon Ranges council voted for more research into both issues at the May 24 council meeting, with councillors divided on the propositions.
“I don’t want to turn any of our reserves into zoos,” mayor Jennifer Anderson told the meeting.
The draft environmental management plan for the reserve was released for public feedback between December 2, 2016, and March 10, 2017. Last week the council adopted the plan with a number of changes based upon the feedback.
A predator-proof fence and a threatened species reintroduction program were supported by the majority of those who submitted feedback, but not by Friends of Black Hill Reserve, a group formed in 1979 for the site’s rehabilitation.
Their concerns related to the impact on the free movement of wildlife, cost and the effect on existing plant and animal species.
The plan also outlined preparation of a preliminary Aboriginal heritage assessment and a continued ban on horse riding, mountain bikes and motorbikes and firewood collection.
The plan will be implemented in partnership with the Friends of Black Hill and the local community, subject to budget allocations.
