KILMORE Creek will receive some much needed strengthening of its habitat, with a grant provided by the State Government.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced on Tuesday that Mitchell Shire Council will receive $136,600 towards the Kilmore Creek project.
This project will deliver a revitalised waterway which serves as a cherished gathering place for a rapidly growing community but also ensures the protection of vital habitats for native species, including near threatened platypus and the critically endangered Dianella amoena. This project will safeguard and restore diverse indigenous fauna and flora, creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits all.
In partnership with Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and the Australian Platypus Conservancy this project builds on previous work undertaken by council and CMA.
The new round of grants will support 10 projects and target over 70 hectares of land to improve the habitats for threatened native wildlife including the powerful owl and growling grass frog across our cities and towns.
They will also create more environmental corridors and allow 1800 native plants to flourish in populated urban areas, providing more green spaces for the communities to enjoy.
Waterways and parklands play an important role in supporting community wellbeing by providing safe, natural places for people to enjoy, and many of these projects will encourage communities to volunteer and support local projects to improve habitat and water quality, such as tree planting.
The funding builds on more than $6 million provided to 23 projects through the first round of the Green Links Grants in 2024, which has supported the revegetation of more than 200 hectares of land across the Yarra, Maribyrnong, Werribee, and Barwon River catchments.
Ms Symes said it was rewarding to help out, particularly close to home.
“It is fantastic to support our dedicated community groups and volunteers, who help to ensure our waterways keep thriving,” she said.
Minister for Water, Gayle Tierney, said this was a crucial step in the conservation of the waterway.
“Our urban waterways are important to our communities’ health and wellbeing, along with providing vital habitat for native wildlife,” she said.
“Green Links grants are empowering local communities to protect their local waterways and create greener open spaces in urban areas for more locals to enjoy.”
