Funding to encourage young macedon ranges residents to care for our environment

Schools and kindergartens in the Macedon Ranges will share in $409,500 for biodiversity projects and learning activities from the Victorian Government.

Hesket Primary School, Candlebark School and Swinburne Avenue Kindergarten are three of 113 recipients across Victoria to receive 2020 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants.

Hesket Primary School will use the grant to create an indigenous edible garden, including nest boxes and rocks, logs and ground-level habitat for local fauna. It will be an important focal point for science education, sustainability and celebration of using indigenous plants to create a landscape feature.

As Victorian children and young adults return to face-to-face learning across the state, the projects will engage students in outdoor, hands-on projects and environmental learning activities.

The projects and activities are designed to provide both environmental and educational outcomes, as well as health and wellbeing benefits.

The Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants are funded by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning through its Victorian Landcare Program. The grants are delivered by Landcare Australia as part of its Junior Landcare program.

The government has allocated over $1.2 million for 350 projects through the grants program since 2018.

This program contributes to Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037, the Victorian Government’s plan to stop the decline of our native plants and animals and improve our natural environment.

For more information on the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants and a full list of recipients, visit: juniorlandcare.org.au/grant/2020-victorian-junior-landcare-and-biodiversity-grants.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP
"These fantastic landcare projects will benefit our young Macedon Ranges residents by providing fun and interactive learning experiences to encourage appreciation and understanding of our beautiful natural environment."

"Hesket Primary School’s indigenous edible garden is a fantastic way for students to connect with and celebrate the indigenous history of our region."

Quote attributable to Hesket Primary School Principal, Seona Aulich
"With Junior Landcare, we’ll be revegetating a beautiful part of our school that the students affectionately refer to as "Hesket Hill". Students will learn about and create an environment that welcomes local indigenous flora and fauna – what a wonderful learning opportunity!"