Liam McNally
Community organisations in Melton and Moorabool have been recognised for their achievements by being shortlisted for the 2023 Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards.
The awards ran by Keep Australia Beautiful recognise, celebrate and share environmental achievements and strong community spirit across Victoria.
From 132 entries, 70 projects have been shortlisted across 10 categories.
Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) is shortlisted for the Community Award.
WERN is a volunteer-run organisation that provides emergency relief and assistance through their Member Welfare Agencies.
Their primary service is providing material aid including furniture, appliances and bedding to people in need.
WERN moved to a new facility in Ravenhall last year, and has been able to dramatically increase its services.
Since the move WERN has helped provide for about 1400 families, and increased demand for their services has seen them go from providing an average of 11 to 35 items for clients.
WERN administration manager Ross Butterworth said the success of reaching the nomination stage reflects the work of the volunteers.
“We’ve got over 50 volunteers contributing to this program who have put in over 26,000 hours since the program started. That deserves recognition and that’s what this nomination provides,” he said.
Darley Neighbourhood House and Community Centre has been shortlisted for its new Bacchus Marsh Circular Economy Community Hub.
The hub has promoted sustainability through a range of projects this year including the Marsh Mender Repair Cafe, a Mini-Thingery borrowing service, sustainability workshops and proividing a collection point for recyclables including bread tags, bottle tops and blister packs.
Neighbourhood House manager Renae Knight said she’s thrilled the hub has been shortlisted.
“As a small neighbourhood house it’s really great, it shows you can do big things,” she said.
“One of the greatest feelings from that is we’ve been able to connect with our local community on a whole new level and create the opportunity for conversations around sustainability…”
“It’s great for Bacchus Marsh, it shows the good work not just from us but that the local community has contributed as well.”
Finalists in each category will be revealed on September 13 and the winners announced at the Tidy Towns and Cities Awards Ceremony, held at ZINC in Federation Square on October 23.
