**Read my full October 2015 eNewsletter here**
I’m really pleased to see grass-roots organisations getting support to carry out much-needed environmental work in our local bushland, waterways, parks and recreational areas.
The Green Army has been very popular in FNQ, with multiple projects underway in the Cairns region, Mossman and Hope Vale carrying out yellow crazy ant surveying and baiting, weed control, marine debris clean-ups, bush tucker gardens and creek rehabilitation. I’d strongly urge any interested young people aged 17-24 to join the Green Army to work on projects that will make a real difference to the environment, and get paid! Visit www.australia.gov.au/greenarmy for all the info.
Just on the yellow crazy ants, in September the Wet Tropics Management Authority presented Minister Hunt with a comprehensive proposal for a long-term eradication strategy. I’ll continue to work with WTMA as this pest presents a significant threat to our native wildlife, agriculture, tourism and lifestyle.
I’ve also been involved in helping Cape York NRM and Terrain NRM announce almost $1m in National Landcare Programme grants for community groups and environmental organisations. The groups are restoring local ecosystems and protecting natural assets so that Far Northerners can enjoy the long-term benefits of a healthy and liveable environment. There’s also a great opportunity for community groups, organisations and individuals to start their own tree planting projects as part of the 20 Million Trees Programme. Grants of between $20,000 and $100,000 are available for projects – keep an eye out for the opening of the next round at http://www.nrm.gov.au/national/20-million-trees
