THE Geelong Landcare Network has joined Corangamite Catchment Management Authority\u2019s Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship project.<\/p>\n
With funding from the Federal Government’s National Landcare Program, the organisations have partnered to protect the grassy eucalypt woodlands between Shelford, Inverleigh, the You Yangs and Meredith, and the Victorian Volcanic Plains\u2019 natural temperate grasslands.<\/p>\n
Less than five per cent of these original landscapes are remaining, so the Network and CCMA are engaging with private landowners, and will run workshops, to ensure the critically endangered woodlands and grasslands, and their native fauna, are protected and enhanced for the future.<\/p>\n
CCMA project officer Jess Lill said those owning private land are encouraged to express interest in participating in the Stewardship Program.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe need their help to protect and enhance these critically endangered communities,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe protection of these woodlands and grasslands is so critical for the survival of many plants and animals unique to the Victorian Volcanic Plains, like the common dunnart, golden sun moth and striped legless lizard.\u201d<\/p>\n
Geelong Landcare Network workshop project officer Jo Solomon said her organisation has joined the program to further promote the project, educate the community, and attract landowners to two information sessions in October, before a seed collection opportunity in December.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is an exciting initiative to be part of, conserving our biodiversity that\u2019s disappearing so fast,\u201d Ms Solomon said.<\/p>\n
\u201cGLN\u2019s involvement is all about bringing people together, both landholders and their neighbours, and creating a community around these stewardship and conservation efforts to ensure their longevity.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe program is finishing in 2023, but Landcare will be focused on this in the long-term.\u201d<\/p>\n
The information workshops will help participants discover what the grassy eucalypt woodlands are, understand the fauna that call these habitats home, and the areas\u2019 cultural significance.<\/p>\n
They will go on a tour of two program properties of different qualities in Inverleigh and Sutherlands Creek to see how they\u2019re managed, and they will be able to talk to the CCMA about how best to manage their own unique property.<\/p>\n
Representatives from Greening Australia and the Wadawurrung community will also be involved.<\/p>\n