By Derek Schlennstedt
Learning and sharing knowledge about maintaining healthy waterways is something the Southern Dandenongs Landcare group volunteers and Platypus Education Group ambassadors are passionate about.
To demonstrate that passion, the group planted 500 indigenous species around Monbulk Creek last year and is set to do the same for this year’s Platypus Festival.
The planting is just one of many that the group has undertaken to protect one of Belgrave’s most beloved residents – the platypus.
The Southern Dandenongs Landcare group is gearing up for the Platypus Festival at Belgrave Lake Park on 10 September and is inviting the community to attend and take part in a range of fun and educational activities.
Lyster Ward Councillor, Mike Clarke, said the Council Bushland team would be revegetating areas along the creek on the day.
“We invite everyone to come along and get your hands dirty to help keep the creek healthy,” Cr Clarke said.
“We will be planting about 500 plants from the Southern Dandenongs Landcare Indigenous Community Nursery.
“These native plants stop the weeds and encourage a healthy creek and home for the platypus that live here.”
The 500 plants have been funded by G.J. Gardner Homes’ 15 Trees Project and Council provided a $5000 grant to the Platypus Education Group and the Environmental Education for Kids.
The Platypus Festival is a free family event that runs annuals and celebrates and recognises the unique environment people in the Dandenong Ranges live in where residents share their properties with native wildlife such as the platypus.
Cr Clarke said the festival was an opportunity for residents to relax, enjoy live music, and take part in various craft activities and games for children.
Yarra Ranges Council has supported this year’s festival by providing a $1400 grant to Southern Dandenongs Landcare group.
The festival will be held on September 10 at Belgrave Lake Park, with planting set to begin at 12.30pm.
