As one millennium fades and a new one arrives, we have decided to feature a brief account of the natural resources that our area has surrendered since the beginning of white settlement. History shows that our environment has changed, and changed dramatically! If development cannot be made to be sustainable, just imagine what it will be like for our descendants as they struggle towards the next Century. By participating in a proactive group like Coastcare, the public can take an active role in putting something back into their community. It may only be a small gesture, but every bit adds up. As a group, we have gained substantial amount of knowledge regarding the value of our surrounds and especially the importance of coastal Wallum to our local waterways. This knowledge enhances our appreciation of our environment and the desire for preserving our bio-diversity for future generations. Why not get involved? Coastcare had it's final meeting on October 21st at the Marina Restaurant which was followed by a very enjoyable lunch. Thanks to John for the donation of morning tea.
Merry Christmas and a Meaningful Millennium.
PROJECT OFFICER
Unfortunately
Michael Lowe, our Project Officer, has had to leave us in Order to take up
new challenges. Thank you Michael for your tremendous contribution to this
community and to the Coastcare group over the past 12 months. Your caring
nature, knowledge, effort and dedication will not be easy to replace. We wish
you well in all your future endeavors. { Coastcare is currently advertising
for a new project officer. The successful applicant will commence work in
January }.
PROJECTS
Final Report
The final report for the Implementation of the Foreshore Management Plan (Stage
2) projects, was posted at the end of November. Thank you to all who contributed.
These projects were costed at $23,000. The community contributed $4,880 in
volunteer time, the Council $6,920 from the Environment Levy and $10,790 came
from the Natural Heritage Trust.
Vandalism
Recently, many seedlings that our volunteers have worked so hard to plant along the foreshore have been destroyed by acts of vandalism. Particularly disturbing is the repeated destruction of the school kids projects at Snapper Creek. Plants have also been destroyed at Bob Riebel Park, Crab Creek, Squire Street and Viv Mason Park. What makes it doubly distressing is that a large number of these plants have been propagated through our own community's efforts. The police are investigating, as to date over $1,200 of public money has been lost at Snapper Creek alone.
