More works and plantings are expected later this year
Sanctuary of Sentient Beings has already planted hundreds of native trees and shrubs with support from Greater Western Water’s Thriving Communities grants program.
Planting hundreds of native trees and shrubs is helping improve local waterways and create habitat for native wildlife.
Sanctuary of Sentient Beings has used the grant for its Rewilding and Living Habitat Restoration project. Further restoration works and plantings are expected later this year.
The Sanctuary is located on approximately 60 acres adjoining the Brisbane Ranges National Park. It is home to rescued farm animals and supports native wildlife through habitat restoration and land management initiatives.
Greater Western Water General Manager Strategy and Partnerships Kessia Thomson said the Sanctuary’s project is a great example of local communities coming together to care for the environment, strengthen biodiversity and improve the health of waterways and ecosystems for future generations.
Thomson said, “As our region continues to grow and face the impacts of climate change, it’s more important than ever that we invest in the strength and resilience of our communities,”
Volunteers support long-term restoration
Sanctuary of Sentient Beings President and Co-founder Jodie Musto said the program brings together volunteers, community members and sanctuary supporters to contribute to the long-term restoration of the property.
Musto said, “For us, rewilding is about giving nature the space and opportunity to flourish. We are planting native trees and shrubs to extend habitat and strengthen the connection between the Brisbane Ranges National Park, the Sanctuary and an important local water source,”
The project reflects the Sanctuary’s guiding principles of rescuing animals, returning the wilderness and caring for Country, while delivering lasting environmental benefits for the local area.
Musto said the grant helps fund site preparation, buying plants, fencing, weed management and the ongoing care needed to establish new habitat.
Greater Western Water’s Thriving Communities grants program enables local organisations to deliver projects that strengthen environmental sustainability and waterway health, community connection and community resilience.
Greater Western Water is a Victorian Government water corporation. It provides water and recycled water supply, sewerage and trade waste services and operates across 3,700 square kilometres from Melbourne’s central business district and inner suburbs to Little River in the south, Myrniong in the west and Lancefield in the north.
