Eastwood Landcare Group has received Federal Government funding to purchase a locally-built water cart.
Federal Member for Gippland Darren Chester said the Eastwood Landcare Group was formed six years ago and had already planted around 30,000 tube stock around Bairnsdale.
“Our Landcare volunteers are the true environmental champions in Gippsland,” Mr Chester said.
“I love the practical environmental projects they tackle which make a real difference to the sustainability of our rivers, lakes, bushland, urban fringes and farmland.
“Volunteers from the Eastwood Landcare Group coordinate fortnightly working bees and they’ve worked in partnership with groups like East Gippsland Shire Council to erect park benches and improve environmental outcomes in their wetland areas and other public spaces.
“But watering new plantings can be back-breaking work and I’m pleased the Federal Government has provided funding for the purchase of a 1,000 litre water cart.”
Joanne Jones, from the Eastwood Landcare Group, said the water trailer would support the work of the club’s dedicated volunteers.
“As a Landcare group we undertake projects to enhance and protect the environment in our region,” Mrs Jones said.
“Before we received this funding, volunteers were loaning their personal equipment and we would cart small quantities of water, which we distribute by buckets, to water new plantings and provide ongoing care to ensure survival.”
Mrs Jones said volunteers of all abilities are welcomed to participate in the Eastwood Landcare Group working bees and activities and encouraged interested community members to check out the website eastwoodlandcare.org.au for further information.
The federal funding of $3,000 has been provided through the 2018 Volunteer Grants program.
“Volunteers devote a lot of time raising money to buy much-needed equipment and undertake various activities.
Through the Volunteer Grants program, we can give them a helping hand and make their roles as volunteers easier and more enjoyable.
“The grant money can be used to buy equipment, such as computers, pay for training courses, undertake background checks, and reimburse volunteers for transport costs.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community and by continuing to help each other and work together, we are building a stronger and safer Gippsland.”
