Protecting platypus habitats with Yarra Valley Water community grant
Friends of the Platypus has received $4,500 to expand its conservation and community education work, aimed at creating a sustainable, thriving urban environment for the much-loved mammal and other native species.
Friends of the Platypus convenor Rebecca Kable said the group had been conducting regular rubbish removal, replanting, and revegetation along waterways, and works with local councils and residents to raise awareness about habitat preservation.
“Over the next six months, Friends of the Platypus aims to intensify its conservation efforts with the help of the Yarra Valley Water community grant,” Ms Kable said.
“Our key objectives include expanding our monthly clean-up events to new areas along the Birrarung/Yarra River, Plenty River and Mullum-Mullum Creek, significantly increasing the scale and frequency of rubbish removal and replanting activities.
“We also plan to launch a series of community workshops and educational events to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the platypus and its ecosystem among local residents.”
The group will conduct habitat assessments to identify areas in most need of revegetation and develop interactive mural maps and educational materials to highlight the importance of preservation.
“It’s huge for us to be able to broaden our impact and maximise community engagement, bringing people along the journey with us to create a more sustainable urban environment for everyone to enjoy,” Ms Kable said.
Yarra Valley Water’s General Manager of Strategy and Community, Tiffany White, said it was great to see the strides already being made by Friends of the Platypus to educate the public and generate interest in local environmental initiatives.
“Friends of the Platypus’ enthusiasm and dedication to restoring platypus habitats is a wonderful example of community-driven conservation efforts. They’re not only protecting a unique species but also foster a deeper connection to the environment for future generations,” Ms White said.
Friends of Platypus will host their Platypus Party on Sunday 25 May, in Wingrove Park, Eltham and welcomes all to the event to learn more about waterway conservation and the local native wildlife.
About Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grants Program: For more information about Yarra Valley Water’s Community Grant program, visit www.yvw.com.au/community-grants