Crucial weed removal along Cardinia Creek has received government funding, which will help protect local plants and species.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced $1.7 million for the Peri-urban Weed Management Partnership Program, funding land managers to partner with Traditional Owners and communities to manage high-risk weeds at sites on Melbourne’s fringe.
Invasive weeds can have a devastating impact on the ability of native plants to thrive and provide critical habitat, weeds can also have a negative impact on land productivity, water quality, tourism, fire risk and visual amenity.
A total of nine grants have been awarded to seven councils, Parks Victoria and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
The grants will help preserve and restore habitat for native species across more than 5000 hectares, with co-contributions from project partners providing an additional $4 million to deliver the projects.
Five projects will be delivered in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and one with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, which will also lead a project to restore habitat at Barak Creek – adjoining Healesville Sanctuary – for the critically endangered Broad-Toothed Rat.
In Cardinia Shire Council, removal of weeds along Cardinia Creek and adjacent reserves will help to protect local plant and animal species, including the recently re-introduced critically endangered Helmeted Honeyeater.
Others to receive funding include Hobsons Bay City Council, City of Casey, Kingston City Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire and Yarra Ranges Council.
For more information on the Peri-urban Weed Management Partnership Program, visit environment.vic.gov.au.
