Glenfern Valley Bushlands is a 100-acre reserve off Glenfern Road south of Upwey.
The area was a patch of neglected bush surrounding a disused quarry, but in 2001 a group of local residents got together and decided to save it from development.
After a massive cleanup and some very intense weeding, the area is now returning to its original bush.
The reserve is along one side of a steep slope, so the ecosystems vary from open pasture to grassy forest to moist riparian forest near the creek. It is home to kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, native rats, and dozens of bird species.
In December 2024, the Upwey CFA assisted with a controlled burn to clear a large area of dense grass and fallen timber. The Friends group is monitoring this area to see how the native vegetation regrows. Already we have found several new wattles and small gum trees, plus small orchids. The new grass is attracting kangaroos as well.
The tracks around the reserve are open all year, and are popular with walking groups. Dogs on leads are permitted. The Friends of Glenfern Valley Bushlands start the year with a twilight picnic and nighttime wildlife walk in February.
Any members and interested people are welcome to come. If you want to find out more about our activities, please visit the website at www.glenfernvalleybushlands.org.au.
