First Management Plan
1980 - Land owned by Camberwell Grammar, south of the Lake, came under threat of subdivision.
Following a report on the land prepared by the Committee of Management, the area was acquired by the City of Nunawading, bringing
the total area of Blackburn Lake Sanctuary to 63.8 acres (25.8 ha). Deliberate measures were introduced to reduce visitor
impact and encourage regeneration. The network of walking tracks was established, reducing access to the Lake's edge. Along
with landscaping to reduce erosion, such measures help to stabilise the lake’s edge. Several areas were fenced off,
including the old picnic site (now relocated to the present area).
Education Program
1985 - Friends of the Lake Education
Program was initiated.
1986 - A revised Blackburn Lake Master Plan
was prepared.
1991 - The Visitor Centre was extended to accommodate
the expanding Education Program. Jointly funded by Nunawading Rotary Club, the State Government Eastern Area Scheme and Council,
the project cost $143,000. A hexagonal activity room, storage areas, and landscaping including pond and enclosed courtyard
were built.
1992 - Land for Wildlife status was achieved. Council
purchased 0.5 ha along Central Road, at the north east corner of the Sanctuary, from the MMBW.
1994
- Fire burnt 8 ha of bush to the east of the Lake, and reburns 4 ha of bush in 1997.
1995
- A major playground upgrade and extensive lake-edge revegetation works begin. The Committee of Management became the
Advisory Committee.
Community Ownership
1998 - Final payment made on the Camberwell Grammar land.
