Distinctive Areas and Landscapes

The Bellarine Catchment Network has been granted funding through the DELWP Distinctive Areas and Landscapes programme. This investment of $500,000 will be spread across three financial years and will support existing programmes, new initiatives and on ground works across the Bellarine Peninsula.

In total, 30 projects have been identified to be supported through the funding, with further initiatives to be developed over the three years through community workshops, input and priority projects. Across the program areas broad project categories include; Landholder / Landcare projects (5), on ground works (7), community engagement, education (9) and resources and materials (9).

President of the Bellarine Catchment Network, Mr Graeme O’Leary, said this funding will support initiatives including up to 20 school environment days annually, a Coastal Education Trailer, Indigenous Flora Booklet publications and up to a dozen on ground works sites annually. It will allow action planning and community priority setting for projects including biolinks, Gardens for Wildlife, weed control and cultural connections. The Bellarine Catchment Network will work closely with the community and provide annual progress report through the Network. We look forward to this exciting opportunity for environmental protection, enhancement and education activities.

Below is a list summary of each project. For more information, please get in contact with the officer listed.

Biolinks

connecting habitat
reducing habitat fragmentation
enhancing movement between critical habitat

Bellarine Rail Trail Rabbit Control

targets control of invaisve rabbits
aims to restore native habitat
contact sophie@bcn.org.au

Bush Heroes

flora and fauna species to raise awareness about biodiversity
utilise imagery on public bins and facilities
raise awareness about impacts of habitat loss
contact info@bcn.org.au
download a summary document here

Coastal Education Trailer

provides coastal education activities in the region including aquascope adventures, foreshore fossicks, beachcombs and birdwatching

Coastal Erosion Monitoring

aims to understand sand movement at Point Lonsdale
community focused with volunteer opportunitie

Gardens For Wildlife

teaches local residents how to encourage wildlife into their garden
links into local native community nurseries

On Ground Works

habitat restoration
revegetation and weed removal
installation of tree guards and fencing

Regeneration Awareness Signage

signage at local regeneration sites
raises awareness about regeneration techniques

Saltmarsh Restoration

collaborative project in partnership with Bellarine Landcare Group
a focus on land holders adjoining critical saltmarsh habitat

Education Program

engages primary, secondary and tertiary students students in environmental education
tailored enviornment days at a local reserve or beach
provides deeper education about local issues
contact info@bcn.org.au

Train the Trainer

allows higher training for local community members on education and environment techniques
contact info@bcn.org.au