Foundation for team effort

THE Cardinia Foundation has enlisted in the Green Army and is itself on the look out for potential recruits.
The philanthropic organisation has teamed up with the Pakenham-Berwick Gazette and the Cardinia Shire Council to help recruit locals to the growing Green Army.
Residents can now join the free environmental initiative by heading to the Cardinia Foundation office at 98 Main Street, Pakenham.
Executive officer Di Padgett said the foundation was “delighted” to be part of the Gazette’s Green Army.
“Community organisations are about longevity, setting up support for generations to come.
“We do that in many ways; through grants and through community projects like this,” Ms Padgett said.
“If we are the fastest growing shire in the state, it just makes sense to be green from the start.
“It’s not rocket science – if everybody does their bit it all adds up.
“It’s people power, community power, which is what the foundation is all about.”
Ms Padgett said Cardinia Foundation trustees were all doing their bit for the environment.
One trustee, Kate Lempriere, said she had five water tanks on her property, a vegetable garden and had recently installed an energy efficient washing machine and light globes.
Ms Padgett said she was currently building a home with solar hot water and a large underground tank.
She said Andrew Facey, another trustee who runs Parklea Developments, had ensured new developments were environmentally friendly, while councillor Graeme Legge could often be seen around town with his green shopping bag in tow.
By joining the Gazette Green Army, residents get a bag containing a shower timer, a voucher for a free plant, water-free car wash and a wealth of information on local green initiatives.
The Cardinia Foundation office is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
“We’ll always offer a smile and a green bag,” Ms Padgett said.
>>> To read about more great environmentally-friendly initiatives or sign up for the Green Army purchase the Pakenham-Berwick Gazette, fresh at newsagents each Wednesday.
Members go into the draw to win a 1000 litre household water tank and other great monthly prizes.