Eddie Russell
The future is looking green for Moorabool as 14 environmental volunteering groups received funding from Melbourne Water as part of Landcare Week.
The money will help organisations in the area deliver a range of community programs to protect and restore the natural environment.
The groups could apply for two grants – one of up to $20,000 to deliver on-ground works to landscapes or $500 to cover administrative costs.
Blackwood and Barry’s Reef Landcare Group received $10,400 to help stop the spread of the English holly as part of The Holly Project.
Secretary Diana Dawson said the invasive species was threatening the native landscape of Wombat State Forest and surrounding areas.
“It is becoming a transformer weed – if left to keep expanding its range, it will transform the structure of our bushland,” she said.
“Once established, holly can grow to large trees which are difficult and expensive to remove.”
Tackling the issue was a cooperative effort, said Ms Dawson.
“Our group will be using the funds to work with others in and adjacent to the Wombat Forest to build our knowledge about holly.
“We will document case studies of how local land managers are tackling holly and hold field days so landholders can come along and share ideas on how to manage holly.”
Ms Dawson said despite their charming nature, the plants were damaging and that Moorabool residents could help reduce their impact.
“While the holly berries look pretty and remind you of festivity… it is best to remove them and replace them with non-invasives,” she said.
“Carefully pulling holly seedlings out at your place when the ground is damp is a very good way to assist.”
Moorabool Landcare Network, Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group, and Upper Williamsons Creek Landcare Group all received more than $17,000 for their initiatives.
The other 10 organisations were allocated $500 for management.
Melbourne Water regional landcare coordinator Barry Kennedy said it was encouraging to see the work of environmental volunteers across Victoria.
“All the staff at Melbourne Water appreciate the work of our community groups along with neighbours and friends to change our world for the better, one project at a time.”
