 A lightning strike on 7 January 2015 led to a bushfire that destroyed 80% of Blackhill Reserve, covering an area of 260 acres and affecting 19 neighbouring properties. The fire caused significant damage both to the natural environment and the park infrastructure, including 70% of boundary fencing, the destruction of 80 nest boxes and many thousands of previously planted trees. The reserve is a valued conservation and recreational bushland near Kyneton, popular with local residents, bushwalkers, rock climbers, birdwatchers and picnickers for its varied wildflowers, birds, animals and rock formations. The loss was heartbreaking for the volunteers who had put so much work into the reserve. Led by the Massenan Ranges Shire Council, a collective of community groups including Friends of Blackhill Reserve, Lodden Prison Landmate Program, Upper Campasby Landcare Network and members of the local CFA set about rehabilitating the reserve so it could be reopened once again. The team involved in the reserve's rehabilitation replaced 15 kilometres of path, 7 kilometres of fences and replaced 80 nest boxes, as well as replanting native plants and implementing erosion control measures. Included in the rehabilitation process was the creation of a commemorative sculpture that symbolised the intense sense of loss caused by the destruction of the reserve by the fire. In coming to their decision, the judges said that the rehabilitation of the Blackhill Reserve demonstrated strong community partnerships and that the project addressed not only the environmental recovery but also the emotional impact of fires on the community.