The signs are installed along three key sections of the creek along the Leangnook Track.

These signs visualise the incredible work planned for the 3.5km stretch between Forest, Campbells and Barkers creeks in Castlemaine.

The Albanese Labor Government announced $1.8 million to fund the project in December 2024, which that will re-naturalise a reach of Forest Creek in Central Castlemaine, creating habitat and wildlife linkages between Forest Creek, Campbells Creek and Barkers Creek.

The project is being delivered by the North Central Catchment Management Authority in partnership with the Castlemaine Landcare Group, Mount Alexander Shire Council, DJAARA, and Friends of Campbells Creek.

When completed, the project will re-naturalise a reach of Forest Creek in central Castlemaine that was channelised and straightened during the Victorian Gold Rush era.

Key activities that are part of this project include instream works to re-create meanders, riffles and pools, installation of litter traps, and restoration of riparian vegetation.

The new vegetation will improve habitat for more than 36 bird species, six frog species, turtles, echidna and native fish species.

This funding is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program which is restoring rivers and waterways in our towns to better protect communities and native species.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP: 

"Today is a significant milestone for the Forest Creek revitalisation project, a project I was proud to announce Albanese Labor Government Funding for 12months ago."

"The signs we unveiled today will help explain what is going on to the community when the works begin.

"The Albanese Labor Government funding is crucial to the restoration of Forest Creek and the community’s efforts to protect the waterway’s habitat for the native species that depend on it."

"Some of the damage done to Forest Creek to channelise and straighten it dates back to the Gold Rush. This project is going to help repair this damage and finally help restore our natural environment."

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FOREST CREEK REVITALISATION PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION GROUP CO-CONVENOR KAYE SWANTON

“The signs will help locals stay up to date with the project and make it easy to find out what’s happening at each stage as works progress.

“They include a QR code which will link to the project website and are the first place to find out what you want to know.

“Restoring Forest Creek has been a community ambition for many years and it’s very exciting to be taking the next step.”