After more than a decade of neglect, the Picnic Point Reserve in Bairnsdale City's north-west corner, is set to undergo a 'transformation'.

A newly formed Urban Landcare group called the 'Friends Of Picnic Point Reserve' or FOPPR has made a pledge to return the site of its localities namesake, back to its former glory.
The group have developed a five year strategic action plan, assisted by the East Gippsland Landcare Network, which will see FOPPR members work together with the community, to remove around fifteen years of serious infestation of noxious weeds, including Ivy, Privet, Blackberry, Boxthorn and Bridal Creeper among others.
There are also numerous other issues including erosion, pest animals, rubbish dumping, catchment water quality, site access, diminishment / loss of local heritage values, and lack of infrastructure.
FOPPR will be looking to work in partnership with the East Gippsland Landcare Network (EGLN), East Gippsland Shire Council (EGSC), Victorian State Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (EGCMA), all of whom have varying levels of stakeholder interest and responsibility for the reserve and its adjacent environs.
Once the initial weeds removal has been completed, the group will begin working on spraying the site to prevent any regrowth, and then different types of revegetation will be trialled at various sections across the site. The reserve will be 'divided' into quadrants which will all have their own specific 'improvements' implemented over the long-term, but still in keeping with the differing 'character and charm' values that exist throughout this large and diverse community space.
The group aims to retain the reserves 'passive natural open space' aspects that locals and visitors wish to preserve, whilst working to improve on its general 'usability and enjoyment' values.
Longer term 'major projects' include: Development of a wetlands / billabong precinct with an all-access boardwalk; A walking track 'loop' with interpretive and informational signage; And an 'artistic knoll lookout' located upon the Picnic Point Hill.