Landcare Election Material Liberal Corangamite Candidate.
FYI. You may be aware of 2 announcements by Liberal Corangamite Candidate, Sarah Henderson. Both are subject to the election of a Coalition Government…
1. $125,000 funding commitment to tackle environmental issues in the Otway streams 2. $600,000 commitment to the construction of the Skenes Creek to Wild Dog Creek shared path near Apollo Bay.
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1. Green Army projects announced for Corangamite
The Liberal candidate for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, today announced that Corangamite will receive four Green Army projects totalling $500,000 under a Coalition Government.
“Each Green Army project will deliver $125,000 in funding to tackle environmental issues at the Moorabool River, the Barangarook Creek, the Otway streams and the Waurn Ponds Creek,” Ms Henderson said.
“In the Otway Ranges, the waterways known as ‘the Otway Streams’ are important components of a single ecosystem. They include the
(Heritage) Aire, Ford, Barham, and Wild Dog Rivers as well as Skenes and Smythes Creeks.”
“The Moorabool River is recognised as one of the most stressed rivers in Victoria.”
“Weed removal and revegetation of the banks of Barongarook Creek has been identified as one of the priority projects for the Colac Otway Shire. Pathways, tree planting and other work will be a huge asset for the foreshore of Lake Colac.”
“Waurn Ponds Creek is being supported by a team of volunteers who will receive a boost for their ongoing work with the assistance of a Green Army project.”
“The relevant Landcare and environmental groups will be consulted as to the environmental priorities and works to be undertaken at each of these rivers and creeks.”
The Coalition’s $775 million Green Army initiative will provide a paid workforce of up to 15,000 young people plus project co-ordinators and materials. Works to be undertaken under the Green Army initiative include planting of native vegetation, erosion and weed control and restoration of creeks and rivers. The Program will commence on 1 July 2011. Funds of up to $125,000 will be allocated to each six-month project.
As well as providing a significant environmental benefit, the program will provide local unemployed young people with valuable skills in conservation and land management. The program will also assist with the development of a solid work ethic and provide participants with a proven track record of employment that they can take to another employer.
“I am glad to be supporting these worth while environmental projects which will deliver real results for these waterways across Corangamite and provide opportunities to those seeking work,” Ms Henderson concluded.
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2. Real action for eco-tourism
Sarah Henderson, Liberal Candidate for Corangamite, has today announced a $600,000 commitment to the construction of the Skenes Creek to Wild Dog Creek shared path near Apollo Bay.
“The Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the country. Investing in eco-tourism infrastructure is critically important for this region,” Ms Henderson said.
“The Skenes Creek to Wild Dog Creek shared path will open a further
3.2 kilometres for walkers and cyclist to take the slow road while exploring some of the hidden treasures of this region. Importantly, this project will see the community of Skenes Creek connected to Apollo Bay.
Gary McPike, Executive Officer of the Otway Coast Committee, said:
“This funding commitment makes this project achievable which will be a great recreational asset and community link for the town of Apollo Bay.”
“Apart from a great tourist link, there are also significant safety issues for walkers and cyclists which will be resolved by this coastal pathway,” Mr McPike said.
“The path will not only provide a safe dual use thoroughfare but will also assist in ensuring that those who enjoy what nature has to offer are not inadvertently destroying that beauty for others ,” Ms Henderson said.
“My passion for conservation is very much met by this project which allows people to enjoy what we have without putting our environment at risk,” Ms Henderson said.
“The flow on benefits of eco-tourism are felt through the many small businesses in the region such as hotels, restaurants and cottage industries,” Ms Henderson concluded.