Waldron welcomes community conservation groups funding

Author: Terry Waldron
Published on: 09-November-2009

The local MLA for Wagin, Mr Terry Waldron said today that 17 locally based organisation were among 140 community environmental and conservation groups and individuals throughout Western Australia to share in $1.53 million in grants from the State Government.

Mr Waldron said groups in the Wagin Electorate had received $192,639 to continue valuable conservation and landcare projects and works.

“The grants, announced earlier by Environment Minister Donna Faragher, are part of a four-year, $6million program the Liberal-National Government introduced as part of its election commitments,” Mr Waldron said.

“The program is a fitting recognition of the important contribution community-based organisations such as (name of local group) is making to protect the State’s environment.

“Under this, the first round of grants, priority was given to projects sponsored by community and not-for profit organisations. Private landowners and local government councils were also among the recipients.

“More than 280 applications for funding were received, from which 140 projects were funded in the first round – a testament to the future success of the program and the Government’s commitment to help community based environmental work.”

Grants were made in seven categories:

• major conservation and environment organisations ($131,970);

• fauna rescue and rehabilitation ($32,679);

• biodiversity conservation ($429,705);

• private landholders ($270,687);

• regional parks and Bush Forever ($181,733);

• sustainable catchment management ($280,158); and,

• nature appreciation in natural areas ($186,626).