October 1, 2015
Green Army workers have completed an important stage of environmental improvement works along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail between Stratford and Heyfield.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester presented certificates to the Green Army participants in Tinamba recently after their successful stage concluded.
The participants removed weeds and rubbish and re-planted vegetation at key locations along the former railway line. They were also involved in mapping vegetation, and researching and developing content for interpretative signage and distance markers.
The Federal Government contributed $10,000 towards the project.
Mr Chester congratulated the Green Army participants on their work.
“The young people involved in the Green Army have taken this opportunity to get involved in a local environmental project with both hands and they can be very proud that they have made a real difference to the environment, and also helped to preserve an important asset for our community,” Mr Chester said.
“Importantly, the skills they learn from the Green Army projects will put them in good stead should they wish to eventually pursue a career in environmental and conservation fields.”
The Green Army team is assisting with the improvement and maintenance of the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail between Stratford and Heyfield, a distance of 28 kilometres, with advice from Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Landcare, Wellington Shire Council and local historical societies.
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail committee of management chair Helen Hoppner said the Green Army had left a positive impression on the volunteer groups.
“With more than 3000 people using the rail trail each month, it can be a challenge for us to keep up with the maintenance requirements,” Ms Hoppner said.
“The revegetation work undertaken along the path by the Green Army will ensure the trail can continue to be well-utilised by visitors and locals.”
The Green Army project is being run in partnership with Green Army project sponsor Manpower Australia, Friends of Gippsland Plains Rail Trail, Maffra and District Landcare and the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail Committee of Management, and Maffra Secondary College students.
The Green Army provides opportunities for young Australians aged 17-24 years to gain training and experience in environmental and conservation fields and explore careers in conservation management, while participating in projects that generate real benefits for the Australian environment.
Mr Chester also presented the Committee of Management with their new office position badges at the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday.
CAPTION: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester with Green Army members (L-R) Ricky Duncan, Thomas Dalrymple and Jarred Edwards; Rail Trail volunteer Doug Laity and Green Army team supervisor Corrin Mitchell.
