Parks Victoria is seeking public feedback on the future use and management of Herring Island, a relatively little-known location in Melbourne. The draft concept for the island includes upgrading its two landings and exploring options for improved accessibility for visitors. Parks Victoria ranger team leader Ross Polke believes that while more people should visit the island, its charm lies in its current level of seclusion. The balance between increasing access to the island and maintaining its secret nature is a key consideration for future developments.
One idea that is off the table for the future of Herring Island is building a bridge directly across it. This would drastically change the island and introduce new challenges. Long-time volunteers from Friends of Herring Island, Stanley Barker and Damian Curtain, appreciate the solitude and beauty of the island. The group is involved in planting and weeding to help the vegetation flourish. While they enjoy the peacefulness of the island, they also welcome more visitors to appreciate the art and nature that can be found there. Barker even jokes that his family has considered scattering his ashes on the island after his passing.
The appeal of Herring Island lies in its recreation of nature within an urban environment. The group of volunteers has worked to create a sanctuary for local wildlife, with a variety of plant life now thriving where there was once barren land. The quiet seclusion of Herring Island makes it a unique destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. Polke acknowledges the potential to increase the amount of time the punt is in operation or allow larger vessels to dock, providing more opportunities for visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty.
For Barker and Curtain, the attraction of Herring Island is its secret and secluded nature. They have put effort into maintaining and improving the island’s environment, ensuring that it remains a hidden gem for those who discover it. The balance between increasing accessibility to the island and preserving its charm is a key consideration for future management decisions. While they enjoy the peace and quiet that the island offers, they also welcome more visitors to appreciate the nature and art that can be found there.
Overall, Herring Island offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a hidden sanctuary in the heart of Melbourne. With Parks Victoria seeking public feedback on the future of the island, there is potential for increased access and development while still preserving the island’s secluded charm. Volunteers like Barker and Curtain have played a crucial role in maintaining the island’s natural beauty and creating a peaceful retreat for visitors. The balance between preserving the island’s secret nature and allowing more people to experience its beauty will be a key consideration for future management decisions.
