October 15th, 2024Local students shape a greener future for Macedon

Victoria’s state government says it is empowering thousands of young Victorians to protect and care for the state’s natural environment and wildlife into the future. 

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas last week celebrated the achievements of four local schools recognised as part of the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants program.

 • St. Michael’s Primary School in Daylesford will receive $4,999 for their Biodiversity Nature Trail

 • St. Brigid’s Primary School in Gisborne will receive $4000 to improving Gisborne Botanical Gardens’ biodiversity by planting indigenous vegetation and creating habitats.

 • Hesket Primary School will receive $1750 for their Biodiversity Blitz

 • Candlebark School will receive $567 for the Tye Estate BioBlitz 

The Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants program has awarded more than $409,000 to support the important work of 103 childcare centres, kindergartens, schools, Scouts, Guides and youth groups. 

Grants of up to $5,000 were awarded for educational activities that engage children conservation and environmental projects that improve and expand habitat for native plants, insects and wildlife. 

Since 2018, $3 million has been invested to support more than 47,000 young people undertake on-ground conservation projects and activities. 

Since then, these initiatives have achieved incredible results – including 99,000 new indigenous plantings and more than 1000 student excursions to wildlife sanctuaries. 

The Victorian Landcare Program forms part of the Labor Government’s continued commitment to combat the decline of the state’s native plants and animals, building on a record $609 million investment in the delivery of Victoria’s landmark 20-year Biodiversity plan since 2014.

Anyone keen to get more information about the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants program can visit environment.vic.gov.au/grants/victorian-junior-landcare-and-biodiversity-grants.