HARD work by volunteers has brought about the recovery of the Peter O’Rorke Memorial Native Grass and Wildflower Plantation on the foreshore at Lake Bolac.
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A year ago a two metre wide strip of flowering plants and grasses, including Running Postmen, Blue Devils and Kangaroo Grass was killed by chemical sprayed from a vehicle travelling along the road at the lower edge of the plantation.
Investigations by police haven’t determined who was responsible.
Project Co-ordinator, Nolene Fraser said she is delighted by the restoration of the site achieved by volunteer groups throughout the year.
“Lake Bolac CFA carried out a hot burn on two thirds of the site last December to reduce biomass and weed as part of its management plan for the foreshore,” she said.
“Since then many of the natives have recovered and become well established including Flax Lilies, Burr Daisies and Lemon Beauty Heads.”
On two cold and wet days in July, enthusiastic students from the Gnurad Gunditj Leadership School, Noorat, joined Lake Bolac College students to plant new tube-stock and spread mulch.
The plants, sourced from David Franklin’s Grasslands Flora Nursery, Chatsworth, have been propagated from locally collected seed.
After working hard, and expending lots of energy to keep warm, students were rewarded with a BBQ lunch.
The Green Army, Co-ordinated by John Melling, Hamilton, has visited the site three times in September and October to plant tube-stock; weed; and spread mulch.
“The help of these young adults who are developing skills in conservation and caring for the environment has been invaluable to the project,” Ms Fraser said.
A small team of dedicated locals meets each Monday morning from 10.00am – 12 noon to weed, converse, and appreciate the native flowers and the beautiful setting beside the lake.
If you can help, bring gardening gloves and strong shoes.
For more information phone Lake Bolac Business Information Centre on 5350 2204.