The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BLCAC) has received a $14,700 grant for its Millowl Project, in the latest round of Landcare Australia Community Grants.
The group is one of 26 recipients receiving a share of $300,000 for projects to revive nature, boost biodiversity and support volunteers.
BLCAC was one of seven Victoria groups to receive a grant.
The funding will enable a project to enhance the ecological and cultural value of the Bunurong-managed covenant block in Rhyll, which was the first parcel of land ever to be returned to the Bunurong people.
"The primary goal is to restore and enrich the property through a series of targeted activities whilst enabling self-determination by traditional owner perspectives leading the projects plans and outcomes," the grant application stated.
"These include managing fuel loads to mitigate fire risks, removing rubbish to improve ecological health, sourcing and planting native vegetation and the reconstruction of a planter box for the purpose of growing and harvesting culturally significant vegetation such as Murnong, weed control and creation of habitat piles."
The grant will fund the purchase of tree guards, planter box covers, and gutter shields to protect plants from wallabies.
"Additionally, indigenous plant species will be strategically planted around the property, including at the driveway entrance, to diversify species and create a welcoming environment for the community," the application noted.
Planting will include reintroducing understory shrubs and grasses, create a wildlife corridor and planting around a dam to improve water quality to the adjacent wetlands.
"Through these efforts, the project aims to restore local biodiversity, honour Bunurong cultural values, and create a more inviting and functional space for both wildlife and community members."
Milestone
This year's Landcare Australia Community Grants program coincides with a big milestone for Landcare Australia and Landcare as a national movement.
Thirty-five years ago the late former Prime Minister Bob Hawke AC established Landcare Australia, and supported the national formation of the Landcare movement, bringing farmers and conservationists together to resolve environmental issues.
Dr Shane Norrish, Landcare Australia CEO praised the calibre of grant applications, describing them as "exceptional".
"We were inundated with applications and could easily have awarded 10 or even 20 times the amount and still not met the demand to support vital landcare activities across Australia.
"Landcare also plays a vital role in building community connections. The enthusiasm and energy underpinning every application was truly remarkable.
"I'd like to congratulate the successful groups and look forward to seeing what you achieve with the funding in 2025."
Dr Norrish said the new grant program was made possible by generous contributions from Landcare Australia's supporters and donations.
"Landcare Australia is proud to support so many grassroots Landcare groups with funding for wide ranging natural environment projects important to their local community."
The full list of grants awarded is available on Landcare Australia's website: landcareaustralia.org.au