HBCF Grants in Action:
Restoring Nature, Reconnecting Community: Coastal Renewal at Jawbone Reserve

The Friends of Williamstown Wetlands (FoWW) have been awarded a Hobsons Bay Community Fund grant of $1,900 to revitalise a degraded section of the Jawbone Flora and Fauna Reserve, transforming it into a thriving indigenous ecosystem through community-led restoration.

In October 2025, Melanie Scaffe game some members of the Hobsons Bay Community Fund and students participating in the Schools in Philanthropy Program a tour of the site to learn more about it.

FOWW will collaborate with local residents and school groups to plant native saltmarsh, grassland, and shrubland species. Mangrove planting will help protect the shoreline from erosion, while upgrades to paths will ensure improved access for all visitors.

The project addresses the growing need to reconnect residents with nature amidst urbanisation. Benefits include enhanced community well-being, as access to natural spaces is linked to better mental and physical health. Additionally, engaging local communities in conservation will strengthen cultural ties and promote a shared commitment to preserving the area’s heritage.

Expected outcomes include increased biodiversity through the restoration of critical habitats for local wildlife, improved community engagement and education through hands-on activities, and enhanced accessibility to the reserve.

Success will be measured by tracking the number of native plants planted, their survival rates, the involvement of volunteers, and feedback from participants. This initiative not only restores the environment but also re-establishes the community’s connection to this valuable coastal sanctuary.