In spite of the pouring rain, over 30 community members gathered together last Friday to celebrate the achievements of Ventnor Coast Care Association’s two-year project to Restore the biodiversity of the Ventnor Beach Road Foreshore Reserve.

And what better timing than during National Volunteer Week.

Judy Glover, president of the volunteer group gave a brief overview of the project, before being joined by David Martin, Natural Resources Officer from Bass Coast Shire Council, to unveil the group’s uniquely designed Interpretive sign, now installed in the Ventnor Beach Road carpark.

Design input came from Bunurong artist, Adam Magennis who designed the group’s logo – Moonah and Midden, and by local graphic artist Jeni Jobe.

The sign aims to raise awareness and educate people about how to recognise garden escapees, such as Agapanthus and Arum Lilies, which spread and smother native vegetation.

With less than 15 per cent of indigenous vegetation left, the group’s passionate volunteers are keen to spread the message about how to make better planting choices.

Laura Town-Hopkinson from Coastcare Victoria then joined David to plant a symbolic Moonah, provided by Nature Park’s Barb Martin Bushbank. These used to be common around Ventnor.

David, (who provides support through the provision of materials, equipment and advice) then led the guests on an informative tour of the extensive weeding and replanting works achieved through the project, at Jaycee Picnic Reserve.

Volunteers have contributed more than 500 hours towards this project, which equates to about $20,000 of worker time.

Guests were later treated to yarning and singing up country, by local Ventnorian and renowned singer and songwriter, Kutcha Edwards.

The project was funded by the Victorian Government through Coastcare Victoria.

For any further information about this project, or how to become involved with Ventnor Coast Care, please email: ventnorcoastcare@gmail.com.