Protected and created by locals for locals

ROTARY will soon mark its first 100 years of service throughout Australia, and a slice of lifestyle space in Lucas is part of celebrations.

Named Rotary Centennial Park, opposite Coltman Plaza at the apex of Ring Road, it’s an initiative of Alfredton Rotary Club at the Mullawallah Wetands.

President, David Sanders said his team has adapted the crown land for residents to recreationally enjoy. Over the next 10 years, the park will be a “Group 8 project,” including all Rotary Clubs of the Ballarat area, and a community collaboration between locals.

“We’ve made an access road… We had a great start on Earth Day, 2019 with 60 people planting trees, cleaning the block, and shifting the gate,” he said.

“The children that attended helped with planting and placed their name on stakes. They will create a connection to the park and see their tree growing over the years.

“We are hoping to plant extensively around Winter Swamp. I would encourage the community to be actively involved in creating and protecting this space.”

Some of the first trees especially planted are up to fence height, with plans for newly planted trees to be sponsored by individuals or families.

Bird boxes will be installed to promote local birdlife, and local businesses have helped Alfredton Rotary Club reduce their expenses, by mowing and donating signage.

“On the back of our Rotary park sign, is our native wildlife in the swamp area, including the growling frog, which is an endangered species,” Mr Sanders said.