Follow these easy steps to making Silverleaves better for everyone!

• Go native. Plant indigenous (native to the area) trees, shrubs and grasses. These plants will become home and food for wildlife. Visit the local Barb Martin Bushbank for great advice and to purchase local indigenous plants that are suitable for Silverleaves.

• Remove weeds. Rid your property of weeds such as Agapanthus, Cape Ivy, Bridal Creeper and Myrtle Leaf Milkwort. These weeds can escape into the surrounding bushland and compete with native vegetation destroying wildlife homes. You can find out more by searching ‘weeds’ at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au

• Protect foreshore vegetation. Native foreshore vegetation is a natural barrier against erosion and provides a home and green corridor for birds and wildlife. Please note: It is illegal to remove foreshore vegetation. Report any illegal removal of vegetation to the Bass Coast Shire Council. 1300 226 278.

• Remove Rubbish. Keep the beach clean by picking up any rubbish you find – this can be dangerous to wildlife through ingestion and/or entanglement often followed by a painful death.

• Watch for wildlife. Drive within Phillip Island’s speed limits and watch for wildlife on the roads at any time of the day or night. Report injured wildlife and any sightings of shorebirds such as Hooded Plovers and Red-capped Plovers to Phillip Island Nature Parks on 5951 2800.

• NO Dogs Zone. Please be aware that NO DOGS are allowed past the last track at the east end of Silverleaves towards Observation Point. Following this rule helps to protect Hooded Plovers and other animals that nest and feed in this area. Dogs have restricted hours on the beach and must ALWAYS be on the leash. Observe dog access times for the rest of the Silverleaves beach.

• Control Cats If you have a cat please don't let it wander, keep it confined to your property or inside to protect wildlife.

• Observe Speed Limits. There are many children and families who use the road to ride bikes, skate and walk, so please drive slowly and carefully. Silverleaves has a 40kph speed limit.