GORCAPA works to rid coast of spurge

A “FULL team effort” has taken place to combat an invasive weed in the region that is threatening the coast’s ecosystems and environment.

As part of Landcare Week, Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority team members from Torquay, Lorne, Kennett River and Apollo Bay joined with Conservation Rangers for a working bee this month to “purge the spurge” along Petticoat Creek.

A pale green shrub, sea spurge, grows up to 70cm tall and spreads quickly to take over native vegetation, which can harm beach and dune systems.

“The conservation event formed part of our celebrations for Landcare Week, which recognises Australians who are actively restoring, enhancing and protecting the natural environment,” a GORCAPA spokesperson said.

“We implement a strict weed control program to protect, maintain and enhance all public land we manage, from Torquay through to Warrnambool.”

GORCAPA says there are many avenues in which residents can help assist the region’s wider conservation efforts.

The full range of active volunteer groups and volunteering opportunities can be found at greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/Environment/Conservation/Volunteering

For more information on GORCAPA’s weed management plan, head to greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au/Environment/Conservation/Weed-Management