Jessica Micallef
Macedon Ranges schools and kindergartens have received funding for biodiversity projects and learning activities.
Hesket Primary School, Candlebark School in Romsey and Gisborne’s Swinburne Avenue Kindergarten are three of 113 recipients across the state to receive a 2020 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grant.
Hesket Primary School has received $3320 to create an indigenous edible garden, including nest boxes and rocks, logs and ground-level habitat for local fauna.
Principal Seona Aulich said the garden will be a focal point for science education, sustainability, and using indigenous plants to create a landscape feature.
“With junior landcare, we will be revegetating a beautiful part of our school that the students affectionately refer to as Hesket Hill,” she said.
“Students will learn about and create an environment that welcomes local indigenous flora and fauna, it’s a wonderful opportunity.”
Swinburne Avenue Kindergarten received $3800 to go towards its biodiversity enhancement program and $5000 will be put towards Candlebark Primary School’s A Garden of Six Seasons.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said as students return to face-to-face learning, the projects will help engage them in outdoor hands-on projects and environmental activities.
“These fantastic landcare projects will benefit our young Macedon Ranges residents by providing fun and interactive learning experiences to encourage appreciation and understanding of our beautiful natural environment,” she said.
“Hesket Primary School’s indigenous edible garden is a fantastic way for students to connect with and celebrate the indigenous history of our region.”
