CORANGAMITE CMA AND THE COLAC OTWAY SHIRE PARTNER TOGETHER TO MAINTAIN OLD BEECHY RAIL TRAIL

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) has partnered with Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) and Colac Otway Shire (COS) to create 12 new jobs as part of the Working for Victoria Initiative.

The 12 individuals are employed by Conservation Volunteers Australia, based out of Colac, and are focused on activities that improve land health across the Corangamite region. Activities have included planting of shelterbelts, riparian revegetation, weed control, soil sampling, and water quality monitoring. 

The Corangamite Catchment Management is thrilled to partner with Colac Otway Shire to provide this Working for Victoria Crew the opportunity to gain hands on experience and work on local projects that will enhance the local environmental and benefit the community.

The latest project for this Working for Victoria Crew is the Old Beechy Rail Trail. The Crew for the next couple of weeks will focus their attention on working on track maintenance. The Old Beechy Rail Trail is surrounded by scenic forest, rich farmland and is a valuable asset for the community.

The Working for Victoria Crews work on the Old Beechy Rail Trail will control weed infestation, that will help restore rainforest pockets and eucalypts plants that are home to a wide variety of native bird life.

CCMA’s CEO, John Riddiford said, “ We are delighted to be a part of Working for Victoria, delivering jobs for our region in partnership with the Victorian Government, Conservation Volunteers Australia and Colac Otway Shire”.

“This project on the Old Beechy Rail Trail will provide our Working for Victoria Crew with a greater understanding in environmental maintenance works, said Mr. Riddiford.

Mr. Riddiford continued “The Beechy Rail Trail is a valuable asset for the community, and in partnership  with the Colac Otway Shire we will deliver important environmental works for our local community”.

Colac Otway Shire Council CE, Peter Brown, said the Beechy Rail Trail was popular for local residents and an important eco-attraction for visitors of all ages and abilities.

“Maintenance of the trail while protecting our environment is a significant task for Council, and we appreciate the CCMA partnership and assistance from the Working for Victoria crew on this project,” Mr. Brown said.