The Kate Reed Nature Recreation Area (NRA) contains approximately 120ha of remnant native vegetation. The area has been recognised for its plant communities of
Eucalyptus amygdalina on dolerite with small areas of
Eucalyptus ovata and
Melaleuca ericifolia. It also is home to many small threatened plant species.
The reserve is named after Kate Reed, the wife of the late Henry Reed who owned Mount Pleasant Estate which once included the area now reserved.
Kate Reed NRA was first reserved on 27 May 1983, then extended and declared a Nature Recreation Area on 30 April 1999, under the
Nature Conservation Act 2002. This type of reservation ensured that the natural values of the reserve are conserved whilst still providing opportunities for public recreation and education.
Over time, a network of unsealed tracks has evolved to extend over 15km within this small reserve and adjacent private land. In recent years, mountain bike riders have recognised the potential of the reserve’s tracks and have become the dominant users. Running, walking, and dog walking are other activities commonly undertaken in the reserve.