Valley Reserve is a popular nature reserve in the South-Eastern suburb of Mount Waverley. A leafy haven for indigenous plants and local wildlife, Valley Reserve is an ideal place for walking, picnicking, birdwatching, playing with friends and family, or just sitting and being with nature.
A quiet path in the Valley Reserve
There are several well-maintained walking tracks in Valley Reserve. Most are suitable for bicycles and prams, although there are a few tracks with maze gates that are best walked alone or with a friend. These smaller tracks are usually quieter than the main tracks, and you can often hear birds calling, particularly in the morning and at dusk. The occasional kookaburra has even been spotted, and, in summer, a lizard or two. Most of the wildlife in Valley Reserve is native to the area, although a family of European ducks resides in the pond and creek that runs through the reserve.
A bridge over the creek that runs through the reserve
The plants in Valley Reserve are largely native, and great care has been taken by the rangers to preserve and rebuild the natural vegetation. There is an interesting variety of plantlife, from eucalypts to water plants to some beautiful ferns. Volunteers can also assist in the regeneration and maintenance of the area by attending working bees and tree-planting days. The Friends of Valley Reserve and Scotchman's Creek hold regular events of this nature. Information about upcoming expeditions can be found on their
website.
A field popular with young footballers
The carpark in Valley Reserve is open during daylight hours. There is a fairly substantial children's playground, which is popular with local families. There are also a few fields and an oval nearby in the reserve, perfect for playing cricket or footy. Add to this the barbecue and eating facilities, and you have a great location for a picnic.
