This page is intended to give a summary of progress and is updated as things develop.
subsequent links show detail the project - some details have been updated from the original.
Some aspects of the graphics need to be updated.
Project Slowly progressing
Lions / Karkarook Park Bird Hide
22nd December 2022
Following a meeting with Parks Victoria on 17th November 2022 and subsequent discussions among Lions and industry partners we have reluctantly decided to scale back this project, removing the outdoor classroom aspect.
As a result, the project will now be known simply as the Karkarook Park Bird Hide project
This is a major disappointment, but it does enable the project to move forward, and who knows what could be achieved in the future.
We are working with Parks Victoria Area Chief Ranger Darren Mitchell who is liaising with their Commercial Services Team, as well as the Community Engagement and Partnerships Team who are currently determining the appropriate administrative and legal structure under which to proceed.
Watch this space for updates
Karkarook Park Bird Hide
A Joint Project of Moorabbin Lions and The Friends of Karkarook Park.
We are firm in our objective to realize the educational and inspirational potential of this unique parkland, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Friends of Karkarook Park together with Lions Clubs and the general community have participated in many community tree planting projects over the years. Amidst the growing reeds, native grasses, shrubs and trees, there developed a haven for water birds and forest birds of all sorts. Over 40 species are regularly recorded throughout the park. The Rotary Club of Moorabbin built a bird hide on the north shore of the lake. The park community was deeply saddened (putting it politely) when the hide was burned to the ground in an act of vandalism several years ago.
Karkarook Park was designed to represent the native flora and fauna of the area. It is easily accessible and close to residential areas, which is a good thing, but it leaves the infrastructure vulnerable to misuse. A new bird hide would need to be resilient to fire, flood and storm as well as malicious acts. The criteria also included accessibility for people of all ages and abilities, to blend in with the environment, and to be fit for purpose for many generations to come.
The Lions Club Moorabbin, in partnership with the Friends of Karkarook Park, called for concepts from the architectural profession. Among the many fine responses one design stood out.
Eugene Cheah is not only and successful architect, but a keen bird watcher and wildlife photographer. His design ticked all the boxes, and he offered to join the committee, providing his expertise pro-bono. Eugene also brought many valuable industry contacts. Structural engineers, surveyors, a concrete and brick manufacturer and a structural steel fabricator have all either committed or shown good interest in the project.