We are very pleased that we have been successful in obtaining a Victorian Landcare Grant to continue work along Moonlight Creek. The project is called “Linked by Moonlight Stage 2: ‘twixt La Niña and El Niño”, indicating some of the challenges we expect to face.
The project aims to build on the outcomes of work done, and weather experienced, during 2022, to
- repair flood damage to 2022 plantings through removal of new weeds, additional soil preparation and further infill planting
- continue to reduce Phalaris aquatica across the site to open up more areas for natural recruitment and new plantings, including increased spread of native grasses to provide protection for kangaroos from Phalaris Staggers
- build habitat, especially for phascogales, sugar gliders, woodland and grassland birds and pollinators
- work together with neighbouring private landholders to reduce weed competition and expand complementary habitat
- develop options for future reparation of streambank erosion arising from 2022 floods • consult with DEECA, NCCMA, MASC, Djaara and other partners regarding additional natural upstream works to reduce ongoing flood damage and retain water in the landscape
- keep contact with the wider neighbourhood by letterboxing an update on our 2022 work and providing a further invitation to help improve the area
- continue to provide an annual planting opportunity in conjunction with The Good Op Shop to the students of Castlemaine Secondary College
- Maintain a focus on building a biolink from the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park to Forest Creek through this investment.
The grant has been obtained through the North Central Catchment Management Authority (NCCMA).
This will keep us very busy for the next 9 months or so.
Castlemaine Landcare Group 