Seaford, Victoria

Seaford was once home to the former Karrum Karrum swamp which once stretched between Mordialloc, Frankston and Dandenong. Prior to European settlement, the area teemed with wildlife and supported large numbers of the Bunurong Aboriginal people, who found it a rich source of food. [1]

In the early 20th century, the Karrum Karrum Swamp was drained for farming purposes, leaving only a few small wet areas in the lowest parts of the land. Seaford and Edithvale wetlands are the largest of these low areas.

During the 1950s and 1960s, people were attracted to the suburb due to its affordability and close proximity to the beach and Frankston.

In 1985 the "Ecology and Management of Seaford Swamp" report was produced which recommended the creation of more lagoons, substantial tree planting and improved public facilities. A master plan was subsequently proposed and is steadily being implemented by City of Frankston and Melbourne Water in a management partnership using funds from the Melbourne Parks and Waterways grants programme.

[edit] Seaford Foreshore Reserve

The Seaford Foreshore Reserve is one of the few remaining substantial, continuous strands of natural coastal vegetation near the City of Melbourne. Seaford is notable for this reserve, which divides the beach from Nepean Highway along the whole length of the suburb. This reserve was the site for an extensive dune restoration program undertaken by the Port Phillip Authority in 1972, under the title of the "Seaford Experimental Project". The program involved extensive areas of fencing, revegetation and the installation of walking tracks, seats, tables and shelters.

[edit] Seaford Wetlands

Seaford Wetlands is a 305 hectare nature reserve listed on the Register of the National Estate. The Wetlands are home to a wide variety of birdlife, including a number of rare and endangered migratory species protected by international agreements. [2]

The large numbers and variety of bird life make the Wetlands popular with bird watchers. Many migratory birds from afar afield as Siberia visit the reserve from October to March.

There are stands of River Red Gums around the margins of the Wetlands, some of which are estimated to be around 300 years old. Some have scars where the bark was stripped for use by the Bunurong Aboriginal people prior to European settlement.

The swamp is noted for its prolific and various bird life. Around 130 different species have been observed there in recent years. The more common species are wetland-dependent birds which occur in Southern Victoria, such as ducks, swans, rails and pelicans.

A number of rare migratory bird species also visit the Wetlands between October and March. These come from Northern Asia and are protected by treaties between the Australian Government and the Governments of Japan and China. Many birds can easily be seen from the vantage points overlooking the Wetland's lagoons. Others are more difficult to spot, because they prefer the protection of the reed beds.

The Wetlands support a small variety of native animals consisting of Swamp Rat, Water Rat, snakes and frogs. Three types of fish can also be found in the wetlands: Common Galaxia, Short-finned Eels and Mosquito Fish (an exotic pest species). [3]

[edit] Seaford Taverner

The Seaford Taverner, formerly known as the Seaford Hotel was built in 1972 under the name of 'The Sundowner'. The public bar and accompanying accommodation is a major local point of interest and is commonly referred to as 'The Gundowner' (based on its original name) by locals [4].

[edit] Kananook Walking Trail

A popular walking trail commences from outside the Seaford RSL [5].

[edit] Public Facilities and Transport

Seaford is serviced by both train and bus. Seaford railway station is an unmanned railway station in Zone 3 on the Frankston rail line.
There are several public schools located in the suburb, including Seaford, Seaford North, Belvedere Park and St Annes.
Seaford is home to several public park spaces including two with barbecue facilities and playground equipment.
Seaford Scout Group, one of the earliest Australian Chapters merged with Carrum to form the Seaford Carrum Scout Group.
Seaford has a VicRoads office.