Excursion: Arilpa a private property in Point Lonsdale

This excursion will be held at a private property in central Point Lonsdale. The vegetation at Arilpa is predominately Heathy Woodland and Coastal Alkaline Scrub. The property is approximately 2.3 hectares in size and hosts an exceptional diversity of flora consisting of heathy shrubs, sedges and herbs. Orchids and lilies are particularly abundant here despite the small patch size and the pressures associated with the surrounding residential landscape. It is a unique remnant of vegetation for the Bellarine Peninsula.

As part of the excursion, you will be led around the property for a close-up view of the diverse vegetation. You will also hear about the restoration process and management techniques used to restore and maintain this property.

If time allows after the Arilpa excursion we will visit a recently opened conservation reserve managed by the City of Greater Geelong at the “Point” housing estate Point Lonsdale. Much of this reserve is still a very young landscape but as it matures it will provide significant habitat for the local wildlife. The walking trail through this reserve is 2.5km on a level path.

Following the excursion, we will stop for a picnic lunch in a nearby park.

Meet at 8.45am for a 9.00am start at 77 Glaneuse Road, Point Lonsdale.

There is roadside parking in the nearby residential streets.

Bring appropriate clothing for the forecast weather conditions, drinks, snacks, hat, sunscreen, binoculars, good walking shoes and your picnic lunch and a folding chair if staying for lunch. Mosquito repellent is also recommended.

Visitors are welcome.

Featured image: Photo by Margaret Alcorn, Meadow Argus Junonia villida, Lake Victoria.