Zoe Moffatt
Macedon Ranges youth and volunteer groups will receive a share in four million dollars to help volunteers protect and restore landscapes.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the recipients of the 2023 Victorian Landcare Grants on September 19, which will help improve the state’s natural environment.
Newham and District Landcare Group will receive $19,982 for its Cobaw Biolink Enhancement project.
Committee member Helen Scott said the group is thrilled to receive the grant which will help progress their ongoing work on the Cobaw Biolink.
“The funds will make a difference to a new project… where the group is clearing weed infestations, fencing and replanting with indigenous species to be an attractive area for birdlife and public recreation,” she said.
“The money will be put towards speaker fees for community education events, ongoing involvement with students of local primary and secondary schools.
“[It will also go towards] continuous work on local roadsides to preserve and enhance remnant and endangered native vegetation and stunning wildflowers.”
Malmsbury District Landcare Group will receive $20,000 for its Community Engagement and Action from the Wombat Forest to Malmsbury Reservoir project.
Ms Thomas said the funding is an important way they are supporting volunteers and the community to secure our environment for future generations.
“Our volunteers are invaluable, and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level,” she said.
“Encouraging children to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of
nature and community.”
The 2023 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants will distribute more than $470,000 for the delivery of hands-on projects and outdoor educational activities.
Gisborne Montessori School will receive $4996 for their Australian Bush Food and Medicinal Plants Growing and Learning Space.
Junior landcare grants recipients include; Sacred Heart, Macedon Ranges Montessori Preschool, Alice Miller School, Tylden Primary School, Taradale Primary School and Gisborne Primary School.
Landcare support grants worth $500 will also be provided to groups including; Woodend Landcare, Greening of Riddell, Riddells Creek Landcare, Bullengarook Landcare Group, Nulla Vale Pyalong West Landcare Group, Upper Deep Creek Landcare Network, and Deep Creek Landcare.
