The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien congratulates Landcare groups across Gippsland who were successful in the latest round of the Victorian Landcare grants program.
“It’s great to see a number of our hard working Landcare groups successful in obtaining grants for a wide range of environmentally conscious projects and I can’t wait to see them come to fruition,” Mr O’Brien said.
Gippsland South Landcare groups receiving project funding under the latest round of grants include the Yarram Yarram, Nerrena Tarwin Valley, Friends of The Prom and Arawata groups.
The projects funded include improvement of biodiversity outcomes at Jack Smith Lake, near Woodside and koala habitat restoration at Wilsons Promontory.
“Landcare groups play a valuable, practical role in protecting our environment.
“They provide on the ground support with practical advice and localised information.
“They support people through droughts and assist with the eradication of weeds and protection of wildlife habitats.”
Mr O’Brien said Landcare networks were concerned they may be forced to lay off their facilitators next year after the Andrews Labor Government failed to fund the positions.
Funding for the Landcare group facilitators was first provided in 2011 by The Nationals in government.
“I have met with many people from the Landcare groups across our electorate, they are a passionate bunch and do incredible work.
“It is disappointing that Labor has only provided 12 months’ worth of funding for facilitators which could see people out of a job in July 2020.
“Instead of supporting great work, Labor has delivered them savage cuts in this year’s budget.”