The 13.62 hectare reserve sits along the Goulburn River and contains high-quality remnant river red gum floodplain vegetation and hosts a diverse range of native plants and animals.
The site is regarded as one of the best examples of what bushland along the river may have looked like prior to European arrival.
Greater Shepparton City Council endorsed the Boulevard Bush Reserve Environmental Management Plan 2026 at the October council meeting.
The plan will encourage the protection of the site and development of opportunities for residents to engage with nature.
Community consultation was undertaken in July and August, and attracted 67 submissions.
The community’s highest priority was protecting wildlife and habitat, and many respondents expressed their desire to participate in stewardship of the site through activities such as planting and weeding.
Councillor Fern Summer praised the foresight of the council of 2010, which purchased the land due to its high conservation value.
Wildlife found at the site include echidnas, platypus and many bird species.
Community feedback prompted additions to the plan including investigation of improvements to path accessibility, strengthening of connections to surrounding areas, more engagement and education activities and addressing unauthorised motorbike activity.
Cr Anthony Brophy described the reserve as “a piece of heaven”.
Mayor Geoff Akers said the area “is highly valued by the community for its environmental, recreational and educational benefits”.
“This updated management plan provides a clear vision for the future of the reserve, ensuring its unique environmental and cultural values are protected while continuing to provide opportunities for recreation and community enjoyment,” Cr Akers said.
The plan was developed with guidance from the RiverConnect Land Management Working Group, which includes representatives from Parks Victoria, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, Victorian Fisheries Authority, Shepparton Mooroopna Urban Landcare Group, RiverConnect and council.
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