Get back to nature

FASCINATED by fungi, climate change, soil quality and conservation?

Joining a 10-week Nature Stewards course can teach local residents about the Geelong and Bellarine environment and support anyone interested in becoming an advocate for nature.

The free course is sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong and presented by Outdoors Victoria, with applications closing soon for the spring 2021 program.

Weekly classes are planned to start on September 18 at the Leopold Community Hub, and Outdoors Victoria is ready to take the course online using Zoom if COVID restrictions prevent face-to-face classes from being conducted.

Participants will need access to a PC, laptop or tablet and internet connection, however there are no other requirements.

The course is best suited to people with little or no formal environmental education, but who are passionate about natural assets.

Nature Stewards will introduce community members to the Greater Geelong and broader Victorian ecosystems and nature including rocks and soils; fungi, plants, and animals; climate change and seasons; ways to care for Country and manage private property; and being a citizen scientist, conservation volunteer, advocate for nature, or a nature guide.

The program will also assist participants learn how and where they can get outdoors and volunteer in the local area.

Field trips are also planned as part of the Nature Stewards education and hands-on experience, subject to restrictions.

The city subsidises the cost of the program for those living in Greater Geelong, but residents in the wider community are also encouraged to apply, with applications closing on September 5.

Visit outdoorsvictoria.org.au/nature-stewards to learn more about the course and how to apply.