Community and environmental groups in Melton are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to $2000 from Western Water.
Three types of funding are available, including grants for community and school gardens and for projects to improve biodiversity
and ‘liveability’.
Former grant recipient Melton Secondary College used a $1000 grant to buy a pressure pump and timer to water a vegetable garden. Rod Cochrane, the school’s horticulture teacher and technology co-ordinator, said the pump allowed students to use an existing tank to effectively water the garden while learning about food production and plants.
He urged other schools to apply, saying it was a great way to attain additional funding.
Schools and not-for-profit groups can apply for the grants to pay for plants, equipment or watering systems.
Meanwhile, groups across Melton have received almost $14,000 through the state government’s Communities for Nature funding program.
The Friends of Kororoit Creek group received $4646 towards the installation of 1000 indigenous plants to complement remnant vegetation along the streamside reserve in Rockbank.
Melton Specialist School received $9340 to revegetate areas with indigenous flora species.
Western Victoria Liberal MP Simon Ramsay said the grants provided practical support to maintain and improve the environment.
“The Communities for Nature grants program supports local community groups by providing funding to complete on-ground works to conserve and enhance our environment,” Mr Ramsay said.
A total of $13,986 has been allocated to local environmental projects benefiting native plants and animals.
