Melways Ref: 102 G10
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Casuarina Reserve is a small reserve which contains remnant indigenous vegetation and a grassed area with isolated trees. The bushland section is being regenerated

For passive recreation (nature study and bushwalking), and the grassed section is being developed for active recreation (play and picnics). The aim is to encourage the planting of locally indigenous plants. This is being done by displaying them in a natural setting in the bushland and in more formal garden beds in the grassed section.

Flora
As revegation proceeds, new species are being discovered and the number of naturally occurring species has risen from the original 50 to 71. Another 27 species new to the reserve have been added. Members of the lily family are well represented. Chocolate lilies are the most numerous and obvious, with their vanilla-scented purple flowers held on long stems above the basal tuft of soft grassy leaves. The yellow rush lily shows up on sunny days as a mass of bright yellow stars nestling amongst the native grasses. Twining fringe lily is the most delicate species, usually just one slender stem spiralling along grass stems and dotted with small fringed purple flowers.

Other lilies include black anther flax lily, large strap-like grey-green leaves and tall stems massed with blue flowers followed by purple berries, pale Grass lily, small grassy tuft with greyish-white stars on short stems and blue stars, a rosette of two or three flat leaves and bright blue flowers on short stems.

Native grasses are also well represented. There are four species of wallaby grass and one of these, had not been previously recorded in Frankston. There are two species of tussock grass and three species of spear grass. Other grasses include kangaroo grass, reed bent grass, Common love grass, and two distinct forms of weeping grass. The orchid family is represented by eight species, four greenhoods - trim, nodding, tall and maroonhood, gnat orchid, onion orchid, sun orchid and helmet orchid. Other plant families occurring are the heaths, pea flowers, mat rushes and grass trees.

Fauna
Many native bird species utilise the reserve's plants. Honeyeaters such as the eastern spinebill and the New Holland honeyeater are attracted to the nectar bearing flowers of the common correa and the common appleberry. The flowers of other species - eucalypts, wattles, tea trees and peas, attract a wide range of insects for insect-eating birds. A small family of superb blue wrens appears to live permanently in the reserve. Frogs and skinks find shelter amongst the ground litter, feeding on ground-dwelling vertebrates and there are many species of butterflies and moths evident in spring. Ringtail possums have also been observed.

Management Issues
Thick vegetation, even though it may be non-indigenous, provides protection for small wildlife species. This is the main reason why large scale removal of weeds will not be carried out. In a small area such as this it is important that the rate of clearing does not exceed that of regeneration.

Pest plants are a major threat to the integrity of the bushland. Their ability to out-compete and eventually replace the native vegetation cannot be under-estimated. It is unfortunate that many originate from seeds spread from nearby gardens. Dumping of rubbish, garden prunings and lawn clippings, can also spread environmental weeds. Dumping of other refuse and firewood removal results in damage or death of native plant species and this also allows weeds to invade.

Caring for the Reserve
Local residents have formed a Friends Group to help Council manage the reserve. The group is involved in weed removal and ongoing replanting using plants grown by Friends members at the Council's Community Nursery. Working bees are held most Friday afternoons from 1:00pm to 3:00pm and on the last Saturday in the month from 9:00am to 11:00am.

How You Can Help
Keep to the walking tracks when walking in the reserve. Trampling destroys small plants and soil compaction makes reestablishment difficult. Keep dogs out of the bushland section. Their urine and faeces are extremely toxic to small plants and raised levels of soil nutrients favour the growth of weeds. Consider removing pest plants from your garden and replacing them with local plants. Join the Friends Group and learn about the local environment and how to propagate your own plants.

For more information contact Council's Environment Department on 1300 322 322.

History
The reserve is a small (two hectare) remnant of indigenous vegetation. Over the years the naturally occurring plant species have been gradually replaced by the spread of environmental weeds, some originally present in the reserve, but many spreading from nearby gardens. Dumping of garden prunings and lawn clippings has also contributed to the spread of weeds and the loss of native species. In 1991, a survey revealed 50 indigenous plant species still struggling to maintain an existence. In late 1991, a small group of local residents formed the Friends of Casuarina Reserve, with the aim of restoring indigenous vegetation.

Facilities and Activities
Mulched walking tracks have been constructed through the bushland section. The grassed area contains play equipment. Picnic tables are proposed for this section.

Special Features
Mature specimens of swamp gum are present and are distinguished by the attractive, smooth grey bark of the upper branches. Small grass tree is a species now becoming rare in Frankston and there are several in the reserve. Their unusual flowering stems provide a wealth of nectar for honeyeaters and butterflies.

Location and Access
Casuarina Reserve is located in Casuarina Drive (Melway: 102 G10). Access is from Casuarina Drive (two entrances), and also from Verbena Court and Heritage Avenue.