By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS
THE Green Army team in Mount Evelyn last week celebrated its graduation with a barbecue, officially wrapping up its work at Quinn Reserve and the Aqueduct Trail.
Through the initiative, which gives youths a chance to gain training and experience, nine participants and a supervisor have been carrying out weed control, landscaping and planting at the two Mount Evelyn locations.
Project supervisor, Tiffany Scott, said the participants had their work cut out.
“All the participants were clear on what they wanted to do and the program has assisted them,” she said.
“They have been a really strong team and have supported each other.”
During the six-month project, they also worked on Yarra Ranges Shire sites in Wesburn and Yarra Flats Billabong.
Ms Scott said some of the team had gone on to employment, while others had either furthered their studies or begun study because of the program.
Attending the celebration were Casey MP, Tony Smith, and Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Maria McCarthy.
The politicians both started work on this project two years ago, with Mr Smith pledging to have the program delivered when he was in opposition.
“The participants will always remember this time and take the skills they have learnt with them wherever they go,” he said.
Cr McCarthy said it had been a fantastic outcome for the Yarra Ranges.
“Weed invasion is one of the biggest threats to our flora and fauna in this region,” Cr McCarthy said.
“To help us manage this problem, council needs to work closely with numerous partners including environmental volunteer groups and other land management agencies.”
Meanwhile, both confirmed they are working on securing more projects in the Yarra Ranges in the next round of Green Army projects.
Upcoming projects include those in Monbulk and along sections of the Lilydale-Warburton Trail.
