Community members with an interest in the natural environment are encouraged to sign a 10 week Nature Stewards program supported by Council.
The program introduces people to local and wider Victorian ecosystems and topics, to build knowledge and inspire a love of the environment, and find out ways to help nature at home and through local environmental volunteering.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said Nature Stewards would be a great opportunity for adults to learn more about the world around them.
“The Yarra Ranges is home to some of the most vibrant, rare and awe-inspiring natural environments in the state of Victoria,” Mayor Child said.
“Young people and students learn so much about the natural environment in their school lives, but we don’t get many chances to dive into topics like this once we’ve left school behind.”
The program will run from 19 March to 4 June, 2022, with Saturday classes running from 9.30am-12.30pm (excluding Easter and ANZAC Day weekends), with field sessions to follow after some sessions from 1pm-4.30pm.
Some of the topics included in the program are rocks and soils, fungi, plants and animals, climate change and the seasons, ways to care for Country and managing private property, being a citizen scientist, conservation volunteer, advocate for nature or a nature guide and how and where you can get outdoors and volunteer in your area.
“The Nature Stewards program is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the unique parts of our natural environment, how it all works and why so much work is being done – by Council, by the State Government and countless local groups – to protect and enhance it,” Mayor Child said.
“I encourage anyone in the region keen on learning more to have a look and sign up for this program.”
The sessions will be held in multiple locations across Yarra Ranges, including Healesville, Lillydale Lake, Karwarra Gardens, Kalorama and Birdsland Reserve, Belgrave Heights
Nature Stewards is facilitated by Outdoors Victoria and costs $175 for full-fee participants living in Yarra Ranges, $45 for concession holders. Funded placements are available, subsidised by Council, on application. Those outside the Yarra Ranges are also welcome to apply, with $350 for full free and $90 concession.
The program is open to people over the age of 18.
All sessions will be held in accordance with State Government directions and COVID-Safe rules. Double vaccination is required for adult education, so all participants and staff must be vaccinated.
Find out more and apply at outdoorsvictoria.org.au/nature-stewards/applications
