Discover, learn and conserve

ARE you passionate about the natural world and eager to make a difference in your community?

The Nature Stewards course might be just what you’re looking for!

Over 10 weeks, you’ll dive into the fascinating realms of local plants, animals, rocks, fungi and more, while learning how to protect them from habitat loss and climate change impacts.

Running Saturdays from August 31 to November 23 (excluding long weekends) at the Leopold Community Hub, this course offers a unique blend of in-class learning and hands-on field trips.

Topics include geology, climate, botany, water systems, animal life and conservation land management. You’ll also explore some of Greater Geelong’s most biodiverse areas, gaining valuable skills to protect our environment.

Council is proud to partner with the Victorian National Parks Association to deliver this course featuring experts from Traditional Owners to CSIRO representatives.

This is an incredible opportunity to connect with your community, expand your knowledge and make a real impact.

The course costs just $140 ($70 concession) for Greater Geelong residents and $350 ($90 concession) for non-residents.

Apply before midnight Sunday, August 18 at vnpa.org.au/programs/nature-stewards-3

Nominations now open for the 2025 Youth Council

Are you or someone you know between 12 and 17 years old and passionate about making a difference? The City of Greater Geelong Youth Council is looking for new members!

As the official “youth voice” of Geelong, the Youth Council plays a vital role in advising Council on the priorities and concerns of young people.

Past Youth Councils have tackled important issues like the harms of vaping and successfully advocated for a youth hub in central Geelong, with construction starting this September.

Youth Council members also benefit from leadership training, development opportunities and the chance to participate in the Councillor Connect Mentoring program.

This program provides valuable insights and advice from current councillors on addressing youth-specific challenges.

I have been so inspired by the passion, commitment and brilliant ideas of our youth councillors and working with them through the mentoring program has been one of the highlights on my calendar.

To be eligible, nominees must live in the City of Greater Geelong local government area, be aged between 12 and 17 at the time of nomination, be able to attend 80 per cent of monthly meetings and participate in a three-day Youth Council induction in mid-late January 2025.

Nominate yourself or someone else by visiting geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncil.

As always, I value your support and input. If you would like to address any issues, please email me at [email protected]

Cr Elise Wilkinson

Bellarine Ward,

City of Greater Geelong