Objectives

A project of two clear objectives and many shared benefits

The Bendigo Creek Reclamation and Rehabilitation Project has two clear objectives:


1.  Economic outcomes, which will see gold and industrial sands recovered to fund operations; and


2.  The restoration and rehabilitation of the Huntly Streamside Reserve. The Huntly Common team is passionate and committed to the revival of ecological abundance.


Many of the project’s targets revolve around restoring country and delivering positive environmental, ecological, economic and community outcomes. A referral for an Environment Effects Statement (EES) was submitted and accepted by the Minister’s office in December 2020, and officially accepted by the Minister for Planning in March 2021.

The aim of the project is to remediate, rehabilitate and regenerate the Huntly Streamside Reserve, restoring country and delivering positive environmental, ecological, commercial and community outcomes.


Recover gold, mercury and industrial sand from approximately 4 million tonnes of sludge material that has covered the natural ground surface within the Huntly Streamside Reserve.

Re-establish the ecological values of the reserve that have been diminished by clearing and grazing since European occupation.

Restore ‘upside down country’ and the cultural values held by the Dj Dja Wurrung people and reintroduce Aboriginal farming practices.

Provide local employment and commercial benefits.

Restore the original topography and water courses within the Huntly Streamside. Reserve and rehabilitate the Bendigo creek and floodplain.

Improve flood management and reduce downstream flooding risk.

Enhance recreational opportunities within the reserve

Make a positive contribution to implementing the ‘Reimagining Bendigo Creek’ plan.

The project is expected to contribute to the following Huntly precinct outcomes in the Reimagining Bendigo Creek Plan (June 2020) and these will be incorporated into the rehabilitation plan:



  • The cultural heritage significance of this part of the Creek to the Dja Dja Wurrung is respected and strengthened by supporting cultural practice and sharing stories, ceremony and culture through education programs, art and interpretive signs.
  • Walking and cycling access is improved to and within the Huntly Streamside Reserve, and its expansive area is used to create an immersive, enriching experience of nature, wildlife, water and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
  • The crucial ecological, cultural, educational and recreational functions of the Huntly Streamside Reserve are supported with appropriate joint management and resourcing.
  • The management of vehicle access is improved.
  • Pest plants and animals are being effectively managed.
  • The Creek has a chain of ponds and riffles to support wildlife and increase amenity.
  • Biolinks/wildlife corridors between the Reserve and the Greater Bendigo National Park and Greater Bendigo Regional Park are protected.



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