Yarran Dheran Nature Reserve

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Yarran Dheran is a 7.4 hectare bushland reserve and thoroughly deserving of its nature reserve title. It is situated on the southern bank of the Mullum Mullum Creek. It is a mixture of original indigenous and reconstructed bushland.


Inside the Ashburton Drive entrance is a visitor's centre which is open on Sundays between 2.00 pm and 4.00pm depending on volunteers availability. When closed information brochures can be obtained from an exterior rack. Toilets adjoin the visitors centre.


The area was a stone quarry and then a tip until 1963. The reserve was named Yarran Dheran in 1970, taking its name from the Wurundjeri People, meaning Wattle Gully.

The reserve has numerous paths criss-crossing the area, all named. Yarran Dherran track, Burgan walk, Wildflower walk, Pond walk, Yellow box track, Cherry Ballart walk, Quarry Road track and Schwerkolt track, which follows along the Mullum Mullum Creek to Schwerkolt Cottage, approximately one kilometre away. All the tracks and walks are named on vertical posts.


The Pond Walk leads to several small ponds which would provide a habitat for water birds and frog, although neither were evident on my visits.




The northern end of Yarran Dherran joins the Eastlink Trail which follows the Mullum Mullum Creek.

A dedicated group of volunteers care for the reserve and hold regular working bees to assist in maintaining the area for the benefit of its many inhabitants and visitors.


The reserve is reported to be the home of 84 species of birds. During my two walks through the reserve, I have only observed three. A wattlebird, parrot and several magpies. Others were heard or seen as a fleeting glance.


It is estimated that around 24 species of butterflies could be observed in Yarran Dheran.


Possums, sugar gliders and echidnas are said to be permanent residents, but are good at hiding from visitors.


Some of the tracks are very steep and steps are provided to negotiate the slopes. Although many of the paths are wide and reasonably level which would provide wheelchair access to much of the reserve.


Near the Mullum Mullum Creek end of the reserve, an open grass expanse has three picnic benches and tables which would provide a rest break for those walking the Eastlink Trail.


A bridge across the Mulllun Mullum Creek provides access to the Mullum Mullum Park.


Like most parks, reserves and walks it is popular with local residents taking their dog for a walk. The undulating and steep areas present a challenge to walkers, joggers and WeekendNotes readers.


There is a car park at each end of the reserve, in Ashburton Drive and Quarry Road.


This reserve is well worth a visit anytime as different seasons would present different observations.

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