In 1997 an enthusiastic group of local residents joined forces to form the Harcourt Valley Landcare Group.
Twenty five years later the enthusiasm of this hard-working local group has been sustained and they will celebrate their longevity and success with a special event this Sunday.
Since its inception, Harcourt Valley Landcare has completed more than 50 projects and activities that have focused on preserving and improving Harcourt’s environment.
Among others, the volunteers have contributed to educational projects in partnership with the primary school, worked since 2001 at revegetation and rehabilitation along Barkers Creek involving weed removal and replanting, have reintroduced key plants such as the matted flax lily, which supports the blue-banded bee, have made picnic tables, built a bridge and constructed the stone circle at the Oak Forest. And the group has also enjoyed walks, talks, bird watching, companionship and celebrations.
Member of some years Shelley Fiddes said she joined to get to know more people in the area and to help improve the environment in Harcourt.
“I wanted to gain knowledge about trees and grasses and how to identify a weed. I’ve learnt a lot from other members, some of whom are experts,” Shelley said.
“Landcare only takes a few hours each month and when you get a group of people working together you can make good progress on a project.
“I think it’s special that we have a group like this in Harcourt who care about the environment and who enjoy working together outdoors. The morning tea after a working bee is always a treat!”
The group’s most recent endeavour is the production of a beautifully illustrated promotional membership brochure and an action plan that sets out the group’s goals for the next five years. These will be launched at the celebration on Sunday.
Harcourt Valley Landcare invites the Mount Alexander community and landcare network members to come and celebrate with them this Sunday September 25 at Leanganook Campground at Mount Alexander from 10am-12pm.
Members who have served more than 10 years – and there are many – will also be presented with a Life Membership Certificate on the day.
Well-known identity George Milford will speak about ballantinia, banksias and blue-banded bees and 25 years of inspired rehabilitation work in the Harcourt Valley and a delicious morning tea will be served.
If you wish to attend, RSVP via email to info@harcourtvalleylandcare.org
