Wellington Reserve Micro Forest

 Melbourne’s first micro forest was built at Wellington Reserve in Mulgrave.  

The area was chosen as it had little ground and middle vegetation, and lacked tree canopy.

More than 106 tonnes of recycled soil, compost and sand, and 650 local indigenous plants and repurposed tree logs were used to build this micro forest. 

This project was possible thanks to more than 90 residents and several local businesses and community groups, who volunteered to help plant and mulch the micro forest over 2 mornings. 

Design and features

The Wellington Reserve Micro Forest design was a collaboration with Melbourne University and funded by the Victorian Government ‘Our Catchments, Our Community’ grants program. 

We consulted with our community to establish key design elements that included easy pedestrian access into the micro forest with some open areas to sit and enjoy nature.  

The design includes mounds which surround people in nature while providing inviting safe places for small birds, skinks and insects.  

A dry creek bed allows water to filter and retain water in the soil for drier periods. Rocks and logs add variety support wildlife like butterflies and small birds. 

More information 

Contact Biodiversity Champion, Anna Mezzetti, at anna.mezzetti@monash.vic.gov.au for more information on how you can get involved.