Exploring Cobbledicks Ford & Reserve

We’ve already seen how many natural gems are situated close to you in Tarneit. So it should come as no surprise to learn of another! Cobbledicks Ford and Reserve lies at the hidden away in the Werribee River Gorge, in the bottom of a spectacular valley that is part of the Port Phillip Sunkland.

Cobbledicks Reserve is a 61-acre open space near Mount Cotterall named after Samuel Cobbledick, an early farmer of the region. Nearby, Cobbledicks Ford crosses the Werribee River over bluestone pavers. The surrounding area is known locally for its volcanic escarpments and unique vegetation, including a species of Blue Box Eucalyptus only to be found along the Werribee River.

It’s a gentle, easy walk around the reserve, which is well kept with a neatly maintained path. There are the ruins of an old school house to take in, as well as abundant bird life for the keen photographers, and it is evident that a lot of work on revegetation and weed removal has taken place in the recent past.

Now, thanks to John Marks and the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford, you too can help maintain this precious little piece of the west with their upcoming Planting Day. With your help, they’ll be looking to plant over 400 native grasses to help preserve the local environment.

The Planting Day is happening Thursday, 17 May at Cobbledicks Ford on Cobbledicks Ford Rd. To get there from Orchard, just turn off Dohertys Rd onto Dukelows, drive south down Cobbledicks Rd and turn left into the carpark Remember to take along a hat, gloves, sunscreen, bottle of water and a small spade, as well as suitable footwear.

Take in a true piece of local history, and give it a helping hand while you’re at it with the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford!

The Friends of Cobbledicks Ford Planting Day runs from 9.30am–12.30pm Thursday, 17 May. For more information, email info@marksbros.com.au or call John Marks on 0407 546 235. Image by BT under CC ShareAlike 4.0 International License, via the gorgeous livingintarneit website.