It was a busy day in the Clarence Valley for Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan on Monday, with the announcement of funding for the Harwood Island Public School, Yuraygir Landcare Group, South Grafton Highschool and Clarence Environment Centre.
Yuraygir Landcare Group have been working to protect the environment at the Tucabia Flora Reserve.
Mr Hogan said that this area is an important learning resource for schools and TAFE in the Clarence Valley, and he was happy to announce $3,580 to support this important project.
“Phase 1 of this project was to create a botanical reserve at Tucabia to preserve the endangered paperbark Melaleuca irbyana,” Mr Hogan said.
“Through the next phase, Yuraygir Landcare Group will buy and plant more seedlings to develop the area.”
“Planting is done on a voluntary basis by students, Scout groups and people participating in programs such as Work for Dole.”
“They will also buy and install plant identification signs. These include a QR code that links the plant to NSW Flora Online.”
“The team purchase and use nest boxes for birds, bats and other animals that require hollows to nest and roost in.”
Yuraygir Landcare Group will also use this funding to: finalise the ponds and stock with native aquatic flora/fauna, buy and spread mulch around the plants/plant and plant more koala trees at the Reserve and install interpretive signs,” he said.
South Grafton High School have received a grant for $16,000 to help improve an underutilised area of their school. They want to create an Aboriginal Learning Circle, with a shaded area, play equipment and seating.
All schools across the electorate were encouraged to apply for this funding to make improvements to their school environment.
This funding program allows individual schools to nominate their own projects that make a big difference to the school community.
The Local Schools Community Fund is open to all schools, but eligibility conditions will apply. Schools were able to lodge one application for each of their campuses.
For future rounds, visit https://schools.education.gov.au/ to apply.
Clarence Environmental Centre has been working to protect old growth forestry at Hayards Crossing. They are removing infestations of high priority weeds and restoring riverbanks.
Mr Hogan said that it was great to announce almost $20,000 to support this important project.
“Through this funding, they can continue to reduce the impact of weeds and re-establish native vegetation on riverbanks.”
“The weed removal will improve the vegetation of the forest and assist native species.”
“Threatened fauna in the area include the Grey Headed Flying Fox, Little Bentwing Bat and Black Necked Stork.”
“This project will improve animal habitats and food resources.”
“The Orara River is a popular for recreation, including swimmers and fishers. Through removing weeds, it will improve the aesthetic of the site.”