Stonehill Estate, Bacchus Marsh

Stonehill Gully and escarpment presented steep slopes, erosion risk, nutrient-poor soils and extensive noxious weeds. Our brief was to manage stormwater, stabilise the site, retain remnant indigenous vegetation and establish new planting through targeted, zone-specific treatments.

A long-term restoration program combined species selection, erosion-control measures and several years of weed and pest management before planting. Collaboration with Council and environmental contractors ensured the approach aligned with local priorities and could become largely self-sustaining.

Over 10 years, the project transformed the gully into a resilient, self-regenerating ecosystem. Indigenous vegetation and habitat have been restored, biodiversity increased, and erosion and stormwater risks reduced—benefiting the Werribee River system and creating a healthier, lower-maintenance landscape for the community

Awards:

AILA Victorian Chapter 2025 Landscape Architecture Award –Infrastructure category for Stonehill Gully and Escarpment Regeneration (Bacchus Marsh)

AILA Victorian Chapter 2025 Landscape Architecture Award – Award of Excellence Land Management category for Stonehill Gully and Escarpment Regeneration (Bacchus Marsh)