THE Level Crossing Removal Project has unveiled plans for an “interpretive trail” which will run throughout Groves Reserve in Aspendale.
The removal of coastal banksias and vegetation from Groves Reserve early last year prompted condemnation from local environmentalists, the state opposition, and Kingston Council. At the time, Kingston mayor Georgina Oxley said “the removal of these trees is an unacceptable environmental loss for our community. Groves Reserve holds immense historical and ecological value, and it is devastating to see trees continue to be cut down despite our repeated calls for a reprieve.” (“Banksia bulldozing unacceptable” The News 5/3/2025)
The LXRP has now revealed its plans for the reserve. In a statement it said “in partnership with Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, the Registered Aboriginal Party encompassing the project area, we’ve created an interpretive trail throughout Groves Reserve, Aspendale.”
“The interpretive trail gives visitors a place to learn about Bunurong culture, history and ecological knowledge through the natural environment, path details and interpretive signage. This location was chosen because it reflects the area’s continued importance as a significant place for Bunurong peoples. The area has been a place for generations of Bunurong people to meet and camp, sharing stories, song and tradition,” the LXRP said.
The LXRP says the trail will feature “a communal gathering area made of reclaimed tree stumps and logs that supports biodiversity and soil health” and a “dry creek – featuring sedges and other native grasses – running throughout the centre of the trail.”
Those who opposed the tree removals at Groves Reserve early last year have voiced their disapproval at the new plans. Mordialloc Beaumaris Conservation League’s Travis Howell said the design would “limit any future planting.”
“There are already too many limitations on Groves Reserve for planting, which were not expected,” he said. “The Mordialloc Beaumaris Conservation League fought hard to make sure the seeds from the removed trees in Groves Reserve were returned to Kingston Council for future planting, but we will not get the chance to even restore the nature reserve.”
The project was undertaken as part of the LXRP’s removal of level crossings at McDonald Street in Mordialloc and Station Street in Aspendale. The new Mordialloc Station opened on 21 May.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 2 September 2026