The Australian Government today announced more successful applicants under the $20 million Murray–Darling Healthy Rivers Program, including a grant to Mount Cole Creek.
This program assists communities to deliver on-ground projects to improve the health of their local rivers and wetlands while supporting regional economies.
The grant announced today will provide $100,000 to the local Landcare network Project Platypus, which will allow them to restore Mount Cole Creek and boost habitat for native fish.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan welcomed the program’s investment in the Upper Wimmera region.
“It’s fantastic to see our community pulling together to support our rivers and the wildlife that depend on them,” Mr Tehan said.
“This grant will allow Project Platypus and community volunteers to undertake a full suite of environmental restoration works at Mount Cole Creek. Works include installing fencing to prevent stock access and reduce bank erosion, controlling invasive weeds, and planting 10,000 plants to stabilise creek banks and provide habitat for native wildlife.
“These works will improve habitat instream as well, supporting native fish species like the vulnerable Southern Pygmy Perch. A wide range of community members will get involved, such as landholders, Landcare volunteers and firefighters.”
Minister Pitt said the Healthy Rivers grants are supporting communities right across the Basin, with successful applicants being committed to buying local, boosting regional economies.
“The grants I’ve announced under the second round of the program so far are providing funding to communities from Charleville to Murray Bridge. More announcements are also on the way,” Minister Pitt said.
“Healthy Rivers projects are empowering people and organisations to work together on on-ground projects that protect the Murray–Darling Basin’s environment and support local businesses and jobs.
“The Healthy Rivers Program is a key part of the Australian Government’s Murray–Darling Communities Investment Package, which is putting communities back at the heart of the Basin Plan.”
For more information on the successful projects, visit the department’s website.
