The iconic Colac Botanic Gardens will be rejuvenated – thanks to funding from the Andrews Labor Government Growing Victoria’s Botanic Gardens Grants Program.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP announced that Colac Otway Shire will receive a $47,500 grant for the construction of mulch and material bays at the gardens work depot, designed to recycle leaf matter from within the heritage listed gardens.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $2.42 million in 26 botanic gardens through the program. The grants are part of a $4 million, two-year program delivering on the Andrews Labor Government’s election commitment to upgrade the state’s botanic gardens.
The first round of grant funding invested $1.48 million in projects at 17 of Victoria’s botanic gardens in 2019.
Most of the gardens to receive funding in the grants program’s second round are located in rural and regional Victoria where they make a significant contribution to the local tourism industry.
Round 2 Growing Victoria’s Botanic Gardens grant recipients will use the funding to deliver a range of upgrades that will improve water supply, address climate change, encourage education and community collaboration and improvement management.
Victoria’s botanic gardens provide beautiful places for people to visit and relax as well as protecting plants and ecosystems and offering valuable scientific and educational opportunities.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“The Colac Botanic Gardens is well loved by locals and visitors alike and this funding will help to make it an even better experience for everyone.”
“This government’s investment in Victoria’s botanic gardens supports our wide-ranging efforts to conserve our precious native plants and animals.”
“2020 has reminded many Victorians of just how important nature is for our health and wellbeing. Our continuing investment in botanic gardens across the state supports that.”
