McNeilly Park wetland

(Another post in the occasional series of where to find nature in Drouin. See: Golden Whistler Reserve LINK)

Click on images for a larger view

McNeilly Park wetland is located in Jackson’s Dr Drouin and is now almost completely surrounded by development. Despite the close proximity of urbanization, much of the wildlife, water birds and reedbed species in particular, appears to be coping with dogs off-leash and free roaming cats. (One wonders how improved the faunal diversity of the area might be with more responsible pet ownership!)

Well-constructed paths, boardwalks, playground, viewing platform and barbecue shelter make it an easy and popular place to visit. There are no toilets and interpretive signage is minimal and very basic.

Four or five large Strzelecki Gums are a feature. E. stzeleckii is a vulnerable species that is virtually only found in parts of West and South Gippsland. Natural recruitment of the species is very evident and pleasing to see. The mature trees must be a fair age, as they contain many hollows that are occupied from time to time by native birds – Striated Pardalotes, Tree Martins, Eastern Rosellas, Galahs, etc – but principally by Starlings and Mynas, unfortunately.

Each season, a pair of Black-shouldered Kites appear to use one of the large eucalypts in which to build their nest.

Planted and some natural vegetation on the margins of the water body provide habitat for birds such as the Superb Fairy-wren, Golden-headed Cisticola, Little Grassbird, Australian Reed-warbler, etc. Various honeyeaters will often flit in and out of the flowering trees and shrubs depending on the season.

The main ponds would seem to be well populated with aquatic life. Little Pied and Little Black Cormorants are often present and it is always a delight to spot an elegant Great Egret, gracefully wading the shallows, intent on spearing some prey.

There is always a fine collection of ducks and other waterbird species present. On occasion, you may come across a Pink-eared Duck, Hoary-headed Grebe or a Dusky Moorhen. Swans and Pelicans are itinerant visitors throughout the year.

The short McNeilly Wetlands walk is walk No 1 in the Drouin Tree Walks booklet, LINK.

McNeilly Park was named in honour of the pioneering McNeilly family who farmed in the area, circa 1871. The now wetland, was used as a summer grazing paddock. The Stories of Drouin website has an excellent entry – audio and images – on the McNeilly history, LINK.

For a restorative dose of nature, try McNeilly Park wetlands.