Dandenong Ranges NP

In 1987 the areas of Sherbrooke Forest, Doongalla Reserve and Ferntree Gully were combined to form Dandenong Ranges National Park. Covering 3215 hectares, the park plays an important role in protecting its population of famous lyrebirds. Since June 1997 Olinda State Forest and the Mt Evelyn Forest have also been included in Dandenong Ranges National Park.

Flora & Fauna - The park is rich in wildlife with 130 native bird species, 31 native mammals, 21 reptiles and 9 amphibian species recorded. The Lyrebird is its most famous inhabitant. Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, Crimson Rosellas, Laughing Kookaburras, Eastern Yellow Robins, Yellow faced Honeyeaters and Pied Currawongs are the native birds most frequently seen in the park. Tree Goannas, Yellow-bellied Gliders and tiny Feather-tail Gliders come to feed at night.

With six major vegetation communities in which about 400 indigenous plant species occur. The park is particularly well known for its spectacular Mountain Ash forests and fern gullies. The Cool Temperate Rainforest includes, Box Stringybark Woodlands, Riparian Forests, Mountain Grey Gum-Messmate Forest and Sclerophyll Woodlands. The park supports significant plants such as the Slender Tree-fern and Summer Spider Orchid.