At a cost of over $3 million the wetland covers an area of five hectares has a central one hectare body of water as well as a series of treatment ponds and swale drains, aquatic plants, pedestrian paths, bridges and boardwalks. It will eventually connect University Hill with the Plenty Gorge and Tanunda wetlands.

University Hill’s Project Director Mr Jason Wood said, the wetland serves a vital environmental role in the development of University Hill – it captures 95 per cent of all stormwater run-off from the estate, its businesses and houses and treats this water before it enters into the Plenty River.

“The idea of the wetlands was to take a functional need and create a landscape feature which enhanced the Plenty Valley Gorge Parklands to benefit those not only living or working at University Hill but also the broader community,” he said.

The wetlands have created a natural amphitheatre and adds to the unique views of the Plenty Gorge and vistas of the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges. Eventually housing will envelope the wetlands and residents will be able to enjoy the views beautiful natural environment.

The integration of the environment and natural features has been integral to the development at University Hill. Extensive open space is being created consisting of formal parks, nature reserves and 10 kilometers of designated walking and bike trails extending throughout the estate and adjacent parkland.

MAB Corporation has also undertaken significant replanting at the site while protecting much of the established River Red Gum population.

The recently completed Princeton Park located adjacent Brand Junction and the Town Centre has BBQ facilities, beautifully lawned areas and even integrates the peppercorn trees of the original Brocks homestead into the park. MAB has also been working with Parks Victoria to expedite the development of the nearby Tanunda Wetlands into a public park.