STEPS to convert an upper section of Greenhill reserve into a useable public space have progressed, following inspection of the site last week.

Secretary of the Friends of Wallan Creek, Claudia James, said her group was seeking to have the site – Crown land currently leased to a farmer for cattle agistment – developed into walking trails and a lookout.

She said more than 25 representatives of Mitchell Shire Council and local community groups had attended last week’s site tour, at the invitation of her organisation.

“The weather was perfect and there were at least 27 people there – a lot of key people,” she said.

“We had Brian Bainbridge: he’s a technical officer on the Merri Creek Management Committee and he’s also a botanist.

“He has identified a nationally endangered species at the site, which makes it really significant.”

Mr Bainbridge confirmed that, in December, botanists had identified the matted flax lily, Dianella amoena, at the site.

“It is critically endangered and Federally listed,” Mr Bainbridge said.

Ms James said the current exercise to create community interest was progressing well. It was hoped that a future weekend tour of the site could be arranged, to cater for those who had expressed interest in the project but were unable to attend last week’s inspection due to work commitments.

“Everyone was very positive; most of them admitted they had no idea how good it was up there, how it could be used for a public space,” Ms James said.

“The next thing we’re proposing is to put in an application for a grant to do a study and develop a management plan.

“We need to know exactly what flora and fauna is there to start with and we have to have a management plan for the whole thing.

“One of the suggestions was to put little plots in where the cows can’t get in, to see what else grows naturally in the area and progress from there.”

She said her organisation would be consulting with the Merri Creek group for advice on strategies but was also looking for input from local residents.

“We would really like community feedback about what people want – that’s why it was so good having locals there yesterday,” she said.

For information or to submit suggestions about the development, phone Ms James on 5783 1325 or write to Friends of Wallan Creek, PO Box 327, Wallan, 3756.