The Friends of Hoddles Creek group was formed in 1999 and consists of concerned residents of Hoddles Creek and adjacent areas, who want to ensure that the special balance of Hoddles Creek is maintained for future generations. We have several main objectives
a community and school education role about the importance of native forests and waterways in providing a wildlife habitat and the need to balance this heritage against development activities
a watching brief over development projects to ensure that regulations related to tree clearing, maintenance of wildlife corridors, water usage from local waterways and use of chemical sprays are adhered to
interaction with local and state bodies to ensure that environmental concerns are strongly represented in any planning or development activities
a ‘hands on’ role in weed control, rubbish removal, regeneration and maintenance of bushland areas, especially along local waterways
Hoddles Creek Named after surveyor Robert Hoddle, who led the first European expedition to find the source of the Yarra River at Mt Baw Baw in 1844, Hoddles Creek is in the Yarra Ranges between Yarra Junction and Yellingbo. Hoddles Creek has seen many activities over the intervening 170-plus years. In the 1860s, it shared in the gold rush that swept through the Upper Yarra and was one of the largest surviving minefields, with mining activities continuing until the middle 1900s. Gradually, problems with flooding and the increasing costs of machinery led to farming taking over as the major local industry and this continues today.
The area contains a fascinating mix of native forest, broad acre and intensive farming – including berry farms, tree farms and several vineyards – and residential bush blocks. Two waterways – Hoddles Creek and Blackleather Creek – flow through the area and are used for irrigation by adjacent farms. In common with the whole of the Yarra Valley, there is a need to achieve a balance between development and the preservation of native forest, bush areas and waterways. These are not only vital as wildlife habitat, but are also the reason that many tourists find the Yarra Valley such an attractive area to visit.
If you agree that Hoddles Creek is a special place that is worth protecting, then the Friends of Hoddles Creek group is for you. We’d like to make sure that the special needs of our bushland plants and animals are considered in any developments in the area. In particular, the fragile areas along the banks of creeks and the creeks themselves need protection from weed infestation (e.g., blackberries, holly), from excess water usage and from the effects of runoff of agricultural chemicals. We appreciate that the Hoddles Creek area must sustain a broad range of activities; however, our aim is to help ensure a balance. There are no age limits – we welcome young and old alike. The only qualification you need is an interest in protecting the native forest and bushland areas that enrich the lives of the people who are fortunate enough to live in the Yarra Ranges and the Yarra Valley.