Landcare volunteers across West Gippsland have received $337,250 in funding to protect and restore the region’s environment, in the 2024 Victorian Landcare Grants.

Minister for the Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced the recipients of the $3.62 million Victorian Landcare Grants at the Victorian Landcare Awards ceremony in July.

Across the state, more than 227 projects were allocated grants worth up to $20,000 to fund on-ground and educational projects focused on biodiversity protection, while a further 296 support grants will assist environmental volunteer groups.

West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority manages the grant process for the region.

“I’m delighted that local Landcare and environmental groups in West Gippsland will share in $337,250 funding from this year’s program to empower them to continue their vital work protecting and restoring our natural environment,” said Martin Fuller, CEO of West Gippsland CMA.

A total of 21 grants were awarded to Landcare and environmental volunteer groups in the West Gippsland catchment for projects including revegetation, habitat protection, river restoration and community engagement.

“As a proud partner of Landcare, we look forward to seeing all these exciting projects and initiatives come to life over the next 12-18 months as we continue our role supporting, facilitating and championing Landcare in West Gippsland.”

Successful projects extend across the region, from Archies Creek to Maffra, and include initiatives such as safeguarding remnant forests, restoring swampy woodland to protect threatened species, developing a community nursery and inspiring the next generation of Landcarers.

Springsure Hill Landcare Group received a $15,494 grant for their project developing strategic biolinks in the Springsure Hill Landcare area, north-east of Warragul, to increase biodiversity and save threatened and vulnerable flora and fauna.

President Gill Oscar says the grant will enable them to develop a biolinks map and plan for the area so they can be more strategic with their revegetation efforts.

“We’re trying to build a biolinks mindset in the community and the grant funding gives us a chance to do things that we wouldn’t have had the resources to do, including engaging with our community and getting them involved.

She said members had also benefited from the grant application process. “Applying for a grant helps us sharpen our thinking, determine what’s most valuable for the area gives members a focus.”

Another 26 local Landcare groups were awarded $500 support grants to assist with running costs and communication activities, such as newsletters and websites.

The Victorian Landcare Grants and Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants support the implementation of Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037, the Victorian Government’s long-term plan to protect the state’s environment.

A full list of all grant recipients can be found at www.environment.vic.gov.au/grants/victorian-landcare-grant s