Young people protect local biodiversity

The project will see the establishment, restoration and propagation of native flora, including a garden and dry creek riverbed that will enhance the native habitat and provide an interactive learning space for children.

It will include native grasses, shrubs and bush to support and attract native birds to the space.

The dry creek riverbed will also act as a breeding ground for small creatures such as bugs and lizards and other micro-organisms – supporting local bird life and creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Children will be involved in the planting, propagation and maintenance of the native greenery, and in the establishment of the dry creek riverbed by laying rocks and pebbles.

Cobram District Children’s Services will receive $2000 for its Outdoor Learn and Play Space project.

The project will provide a sustainable outdoor garden space for children in their sustainable garden area, providing the opportunity to learn about biodiverse practices, watch and observe the life cycle of plants, and watch and learn about bees.

State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said she looked forward to seeing the results of the projects.

“It’s wonderful to see young people from the Goulburn Valley benefiting from these grants, which not only help foster a love of our incredible natural environment but make a real difference to helping protect local habitat,” Ms Symes said.

“Enabling children and young people to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of nature, with benefits to the environment and community.”

The two projects are among 111 selected throughout the state.

The grants of up to $5000 have been awarded to Victorian educational institutes to improve habitat and reduce threats to biodiversity in Victoria — contributing to Protecting Victoria’s Environment - Biodiversity 2037 goals.

This is part of the Victorian Government’s $7.4 million Community Environment Grants package.