VOLUNTEERS HELP RESTORE LEIGH RIVER AT SHELFORD

More than 20 volunteers came together at Shelford Recreation Reserve on Saturday 25 July to plant 950 indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses along the Leigh River, helping improve habitat and restore an important local waterway.

The community planting day was coordinated by the Geelong Landcare Network in partnership with Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA), Leigh District Landcare Group and the Shelford Recreation Reserve Committee.

The event forms part of a larger revegetation project funded through the Victorian Government's Green Links program, which aims to restore waterways, create habitat corridors and improve green spaces for communities.

Over the past two years, the project has transformed the reserve's river frontage through the removal of exotic trees and woody weeds and the planting of more than 2,600 indigenous trees, shrubs, grasses and rushes.

Corangamite CMA Senior Project Officer – Land and Catchment Health, Kelly Snell said the project demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved through strong community partnerships.

"This project is creating valuable habitat for native wildlife, improving the health of the Leigh River and enhancing a much-loved community space.

"The enthusiasm and commitment shown by volunteers is a fantastic example of local people taking action to care for their environment."

Corangamite CMA thanks the Geelong Landcare Network, Shelford Recreation Reserve Committee, Leigh District Landcare Group and all the volunteers who contributed their time and energy to the project. Their efforts will leave a lasting legacy for the local environment and community.