"Sherbrooke Forest - only 35 kilometres east of Melbourne and now part of Dandenong Ranges National Park - has been a popular destination for walkers, naturalists and picnickers for more than a hundred years. 

This magnificent forest is characterised by towering Mountain Ash and other eucalypts, deep fern gullies, and interesting wildlife, notably locally-threatened lyrebird populations.

However it has also had a history of bushfires and various forms of human exploitation and threats, including plantations of pine trees.

Since 1980, the Friends of Sherbrooke Forest,  a group of local volunteers, have been working with the management authorities, not only restoring the natural forest environment, but also helping the increasing number of visitors to understand and appreciate its values. 

In this latter respect, they have produced this book which is designed to appeal to anyone exploring the forest, whether casually or for more serious study.  The main section of the book includes attractive photographs and clear, accurate descriptions of 170 plant species - almost all of Sherbrooke Forest's indigenous vascular plants.  In addition there are up-to-date maps, a history of the Forest, and a section dealing with the ever- present problem of weed management, making this a long-overdue and practical resource for anyone with an interest in this important part of our natural heritage."