September, 2011

Welcome to our 5th edition of the WSN Restoring Our Waterways Croaker Newsletter for 2011.
Welcome to an extra issue of the Croaker Newsletter. There was so much going on connected with the Environment that I felt that all the news needed to be recognised and all the coming events to be advertised. Whats been going on, Tree Plantings by the Schools 29th July and then the Community Tree Planting on 31st, followed by the Schools SEED Environment Day on the 4th August, CLC Presentation for students to work with ROW on a waterways project on the 10th, Launch of WSNs new website on the 13th, Remembering Tree Planting on the 14th. ROWs entry in the Water Week Short Film Competition has been completed and sent in. On the 1st September the launch of WSN Food Groups Fruit Fly project and the official opening of the ECO Living Centre. Events coming up; September is Biodiversity Month lots of great things on, and National Landcare month in the NE. Also Sustainable House Day Sunday 11th September. Octobers newsletter is just about full Wangaratta Show 7th & 8th, Walktober Walk and Ride to Work/Town on Wednesday 12th, My Backyard Rules on the 15th, Water Week activities all week 15th - 21st and ROWs All things Water Expo on the Friday 21st , National Recycling Week in November, National Volunteers Day 5th December and hey presto its Christmas. Enjoy your read and it is great to have articles written from a few more people in this issue. Who said there is nothing to do connected with the environment for the community to enjoy in Wangaratta. Extra News ROW has 6 students from WHS Community Learning Challenge (Year 9) who are going to work with us on our waterways for this semester.
Diane Farmer, Coordinator, WSN Restoring Our Waterways diane.farmer@bigpond.com 0439 020 448 PO Box 772 Wangaratta VIC 3677
National Tree Planting Day

Issue #5

TWAS A GREAT SEASON FOR PLANTING

Sunday, 31st July 2011, Article by Diane Farmer What a fabulous day the sun was shining and all was well with the world, not like last year raining, cold and miserable. Walking to the site was the usual miles from the nearest road but a little exercise never hurt anyone. Especially when its along one of the great paths beside our waterways, frogs croaking, a Cormorant sitting sunning itself and the great sound of Three Mile Creek flowing very nicely. I arrived at 10am and there was only a man and his daughter and Council Staff Scott, Andrew, Tatum and Rhys but within 5 to 10 minutes people were coming from everywhere. One lady from St. Johns village was on her morning walk and decided to join us, several young families, mums with 2 or 3 children and several single members of the community. Numbers ended up being around 26 and Andrew & Rhys had 400 holes dug with plants
Contents

Introduction Twas a Great Season for Planting North East SEED Day WSN Launch Website Wangaratta Community Fruit Fly Campaign Upcoming Events Wangaratta Community Pride Adding Colour to West End Place WSN Groups and Information

1 1-3 3 3 4 4-6 6 6

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and guards beside them. Firstly we had a talk from Scott about our waterways and Debra in and beside the creek and its purpose. While standing there Andrew started to climb down the bank to where a great big tree was across the creek, he had spotted some bright orange string attached to the tree. When he pulled it up there was a container attached (someone was trying to catch something illegally), not when Andrew is on the job, who ever you are. Andrew then gave us a demonstration on how to remove the plant from the container and plant it, and then we all set off. Some people preparing the guards and stakes others into the planting. It is so great to watch this part of the day; its like a team of ants crawling over the ground with a determination to achieve their objective, in this group of humans case to help improve the environment beside our waterways. Within an hour all the trees and bushes were all planted 400 in total. It was great to see a terrific job done so well in such a short time and nice hot soup, roll-ups, farewell cake to Rhys and tea, coffee or cordial was there ready for us and served by Tatum. Lots of mixed conversation, comradeship and meeting new people was enjoyed by all. Thanks to all who attended and of course Councils staff for organizing the day and all the hard work preparing the ground for planting. Hope to see you all next year.

own National Tree Day, by planting a further 200 native plants within their School grounds.

REMEMBERING TREES IN THE RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA 2008-2011

The project in a nutshell
The Remembering Trees project came about as a way to link tree planting with supporting those community members who are experiencing grief following the death of a loved one. Following a death, people can sometimes feel helpless and unprepared in knowing how to support themselves or others. The Remembering Trees Project involves an invitation to people to plant a tree in memory of family friends and pets who have died. The project is now in its fourth year. Why we chose tree planting Ovens & King Community Health Service (O&KCHS) look for ways to remind the community that death and dying are a part of life. It is never easy when someone you love dies. We all search for some way of giving meaning to our loss. As trees are an enduring symbol of life and time, a Remembering Tree is a wonderful way to remember someone close - a living memorial that celebrates life. For the Rural City of Wangaratta (RCoW) offset planting is required when mature indigenous trees need to be felled. These plants help in regenerating the sparse understorey along roadways and creeks and will be extremely useful habitat for declining native bird species. What has happened? In 2008 an opportunity arose for O&KCHS and Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) Palliative Care to partner with the RCoW when two mature indigenous trees were cut down on an out of town roadway. The inaugural event was held on a Sunday in August to capitalise on any national Grief Week promotion. Over the next three years more than 150 people participated in planting trees along Chicks Rd. In 2011 the tree site was moved to One Mile Creek near Cribbes Rd. More than 110 people of all ages came along on Sunday 14th August. The Rural City of

SCHOOL TREE PLANTING

Friday, 29th July 2011, Article by Tatum Newton, Rural City of Wangaratta, Technical Officer-Environment

School National Tree Day was held on Friday 29th July at Mitchell Avenue Reserve. Over 400 plants were planted along the one mile creek, to return valuable vegetation. Four Schools participated in the event including: Cathedral College, Our Lady's Primary School, St Patrick's Primary School and St Bernard's Primary School. Rural Schools were not forgotten with Moyhu and Springhurst Primary School also undertaking in their

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Wangaratta have placed a sign at both the Chick Rd and One Mile Creek/Cribbes Rd planting sites to acknowledge the significance of these revegetated sites. O&KCHS have written a guide to assist others to replicate this activity. (Contact palliative@ovensandking.org.au for a copy) It has been fantastic to see people in our community improve the environment and provide grief support to each other as family members, friends, colleagues or neighbours alongside professional staff who help out on the day.
Planters on the day Brian and Diane

Water, Parks Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Rural City of Wangaratta, NECMA Waterwatch, DPI, Cleanaway, SES Storm & Floodsafe, Landcare, Anything Solar, Park Lane Nursery and Plastic. Along One Mile Creek there was hands on water testing with Waterwatch and a great walk learning about Biodiversity with Council staff. Potting Plants with Park Lane Nursery was a real hit and lots of fun games kept the students interested as they learnt about the environment. It was fantastic to see. There are four of these great days a year held in different areas which should be a must for all schools in the North East, I know I will be looking forward to next years event. Thanks to the school students, teachers and presenters for a very interesting day.

WSN LAUNCH WEBSITE

Comment about the Day
August 14th was a warm springy day. I walked with my 2, 4 and 16 year old grandchildren to the remembrance tree planting at Cribbes Road not that far from where I live. My 16 year old grandson certainly knew the meaning and significance of the planting. When my 2 and 4 year old get older and they come to visit. We will be able to wander back to the place where I will be able to reminisce with them on what a beautiful moving day it was. Not only remembering their great grand parents but at the same time helping the environment. Comment by Patti Stafford
Saturday, 13th August 2011, Article by Gill Baker

A delightful evening at Rowan and Brians house on Saturday 13th August celebrated the launch of the Wangaratta Sustainability Networks website wangarattasustainability.org. A group of about a dozen dedicated members had a chance to look through the website, as well as doing some networking and future planning. Peter Amor, who is responsible for developing the website to its present excellent standard, was thanked for the many voluntary hours he has put into this. The results of the 100% Renewable campaign, and information about the Energy Meter Library, Fruit Fly Campaign and Sustainable House day can be found on the website, as well as a photo archive. Websites are necessarily works in action so we look forward to future developments and links.

NORTH EAST SEED DAY

Thursday, 4th August 2011, Article by Diane Farmer

What a beautiful sunny day for 150 grade five students from Yarrawonga, Winton, St Bernards, St Patricks and Our Ladys to enjoy North East School Environment Education Directory (SEED) at Warrina Park Wangaratta. Workshops from NE

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WANGARATTA COMMUNITY FRUIT FLY CAMPAIGN

September 2011, Article by Tony Lane

This is an initiative of the Wangaratta Sustainability Network in partnership with Dept. of Primary Industries, The Rural City of Wangaratta, The Centre for Continuing Education and Goulburn Ovens TAFE. Following the significant fruit fly outbreak last summer in Wangaratta, it has been recognised that the community requires additional support and information to combat the fruit fly menace across spring and summer. The proximity of Wangaratta to commercial fruit growing areas is another important reason for local residents to take the right action in combating and reducing the fruit fly problem. In the weeks ahead there will be information provided to the general public at events such as the Wangaratta Show and the My Backyard Rules Expo held at the rural campus of TAFE. Information on the fruit fly campaign will also be available at Rural City of Wangaratta (www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au) and via the Wangaratta Sustainability Network (www.wangarattasustainability.org) websites. The Wangaratta Sustainability Network website will provide regular updates regarding the campaign in Wangaratta and provide links to other websites with relevant information. In the mean time if you are seeking further information please email info@wangarattasn.org

Landcare Active Service Awards, on Friday the 9th of September at the Wangaratta Performing Art Centre from 6:00pm - 10:00pm. For bookings please contact Catriona Brown on (02) 6024 9110 by Friday the 2nd of September. For further information please visit: http://northeast.landcarevic.net.au/events/nelandcare-celebration-wangaratta

Sustainable House Day will be held Australia wide on Sunday 11th September. Homes on display will be opened between 10.00am and 4.00pm. Wangaratta Sustainability Network is organising the day in the Wangaratta area. Four homes in the town all within 15 minutes of the town will be opened by the owners and the EcoLiving Centre at the Barr Reserve will also be open. Wangaratta Area Homes 807 Wangaratta-Eldorado Road, Londrigan 15 Weir Street, Wangaratta 5 Crisp Street, Wangaratta 286 Warby Tower Road, Killawarra HP Barr Reserve Community Centre Schilling Drive, Wangaratta

UPCOMING EVENTS
Landcare Week Monday 5th Sunday 11th September September is Landcare Month in North East Victoria, with a series of celebrations occurring across the region. Landcare will be recognising members nominated for Service Awards, and celebrating the achievements of Landcare over the past 25 years. All current and past landcare members and supporters within North East Victoria are invited to attend the

National Recycling Week Monday 7th Sunday 13th November Do you know where your waste is really going? Why do we have to recycle? Want answers? Then you should attend the travelling waste seminar, held during national recycling week (7-13 November 2011) an educational bus tour that takes the community directly to the issues. Further information please contact the Rural City of Wangaratta on (03) 5722 0888.

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Warby Ranges Hike with Benalla Bushwalking Club Sunday, 4th September, 9.00am, Warby Ranges
Join Benalla Bushwalking Club for a hike in the nearby ever popular Warby Ranges. The bush land should be alive with spring wildflowers including grevilleas, wattles and some of the earlier orchids. Meet at the old post office at 9.00am. Bring your lunch, refreshments, wet weather gear. We will finish with afternoon tea together before returning home. RSVP/Further information Laurice Kneen on (03) 5721 2892.

Chiltern-Mt. Pilot National Park Discovery Outing Saturday, 10th September, 10.00am, Chiltern Mt Pilot National Park
Join the Albury-Wodonga Field Naturalists for an outing in the Chiltern Mt. Pilot National Park. Spring is a fantastic time to explore the park and to spot and learn about the animals and plants that inhabit this special part of North East Victoria. Meet at 10.00am Acacia carpark Wodonga. BYO lunch and refreshments for the day. For more information and to register your interest contact Anne Andrews (02) 6056 4112.

Creatures of the Night Spotlighting near Chiltern Tuesday, 13th September, 6.00pm 8.30pm, Chiltern
The night will involve a walk and talk with Jerry Alexander, Biodiversity Officer with DSE, and give people the opportunity to spot our nocturnal wildlife as they emerge from their homes on dusk. Spotlights will be used to locate and identify animals after dark along a significant roadside in the Chiltern area, and the night will finish with a debrief and a cup of billy tea provided for all interested participants.

Yeddonba, Mt. Pilot, Flat Rock Hike - Benalla Bushwalking Club Wednesday, 14th September, 8.45am, Beechworth area
Last year, after fires and then a very wet year, these areas produced a massive display of new vegetation and flowers. I am hoping they will repeat the performance this season. We will visit the Yeddonba aboriginal art site first, with a most attractive short circuit walk, and then drive to Mt. Pilot for lunch on the summit. After lunch we drive through Beechworth to visit Flat Rock, another broad granite outcrop, which has great views, at least one gnamma hole and is surrounded by micromyrtus, rice-flower and box-leaf wattle plants in full bloom. They are all short walks with some climbing, but no real difficulty. RSVP and for more information Vaughan Cowan (03) 5762 1980.

Brush-tailed Phascogale

Numbers are restricted and RSVPs are essential. Participants must be capable of sitting still and quietly for 30 minutes on dusk, and walking a distance of up to 2km at night. Participants must bring warm clothing, sturdy boots and a reliable torch (or spotlight). Due to the constraints involved with spotlighting, young children may not be sui table for this event. RSVPs essential Stuart Roberton (02) 6043 7984 or stuart.roberton@dse.vic.gov.au

Spring into Nature with TFN Saturday, 17th September, 1.30pm - 4.00pm, Beechworth area
Join Trust for Nature for an afternoon walk though a beautiful covenanted property close to historic Beechworth. We will be looking at wildflowers, birds and rare plants as well as checking nest boxes for native wildlife. Afternoon tea provided. Meet at the corner of Gorge Rd and Beechworth-Wodonga Rd, Beechworth.
Flat-leaf Bush-pea Pultenaea platyphylla

Warby Ovens National Park - Biodiversity Camp Out Saturday, 24th September 3.30pm Sunday 25th 12 noon, Warby Ovens National Park
A community family event hosted by Parks Victoria and DSE in the fantastic Box-Ironbark forests of the Warby Ovens National Park. A fun-filled camp out with heaps of nature based activities including spotlighting, bird walk, wildflower walk, star gazing and nest box monitoring. Saturday night dinner and Sunday morning pancake breakfast provided. Where The Forest Camp, Killawarra Forest, Warby Ovens National Park Registration by Wednesday 14th September via the Wangaratta Government Centre (03) 5723 8600. For more details contact Mary Anderson, DSE Wangaratta (03) 5723 8693.
Bulbine Lily by Matt Looby

Bring sturdy shoes, binoculars , chair,

water, raincoat/sunscreen RSVP by Friday 9th September to Jim Blackney (03) 5728 6620 or 0419 842 082 or email jimb@tfn.org.au

What to bring Tent & camping gear, drinking water, chair, torch, eating utensils, appropriate footwear, cold/wet weather clothing.

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Biodiversity Week continued

Whats Cool in the Common! Friday, 30th September 9.30-11.30am, Wangaratta Common, cuppa provided.
Walk and talk with DSE and Parks Victoria to learn about cool stuff in the Wangaratta Common Nature Conservation Reserve. Meet at Greta Rd entrance (past Merriwa Indus tries). Bring Appropriate Footwear and clothing. Drinking water, field guides if you have them.

Hamilton Park Woodland & Wildflower Interpretive walk Sunday, October 2nd, 2.30pm, Hamilton Park near Glenrowan
One of North East Victorias best kept secrets is a small patch of bushland right in the heart of the Hamilton Park community. This area is a relatively weed free example of grassy woodland/spring soak native vegetation with over 70 native plant species identified in a recent audit organized by the Hamilton Park arboretum committee. Ground layer wildflowers are of particular interest.

Photo by Matt Looby

Pink Bindweed by Matt Looby

RSVP by Monday 26th September to Mary Anderson, DSE Wangaratta (03) 5723 8693.

The short stroll, to be led by Matt Looby from Wangaratta DSE, will take about an hour. Cuppa afterwards. Birdos bring binoculars. Directions From Warby Range Road (between Glenrowan and Taminick Gap Rd) turn into Henley Drive and then right into Kurrajong Lane. Contact/RSVP Glen Scholfield 03 5766 2626 or osfield@optusnet.com.au

WANGARATTA COMMUNITY PRIDE ADDING COLOUR TO WEST END PLACE

Article by Chairperson Marg Pullen

Promoting the Prides goals to participate in partnerships with community groups and organisations, members attended the West End Place to add colour to the neighbourhoods newest place. A wasted space has been given a new building which has been developed by the Rural City of Wangaratta, Department of Planning and Community Development, Wangaratta Lions, Office of Housing and Wangaratta Community Pride. To quote Coral Clarke, The idea of the kids painting the wall is to create ownership of the area. The design featuring reeds, butterflies, lizards, gum leaves, hand prints and body outlines of three children has taken on a very happy feeling; just the thing to encourage socialising and gathering round for a Bar-B-Que. Eight adults and fifteen children participated in the activity with the Wangaratta Community Pride donating the paint and Marg Pullen offering some tips on design. Certainly a worthwhile partnership and a wonderful example of projects undertaken and achieved with Pride.

OTHER WSN GROUPS

Publicity/Advocacy

Food Sustainability

Home Energy

Waste Action Group (WAGS)

Membership Now Due!

For more information contact: Dr Rowan OHagan - Secretary/Treasurer 12 Deakin Court, Wangaratta VIC 3677 Ph. (03) 5721 8231

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME ANY TIME

Family/Household/Organisation $10 per year Single $5 per year Student $2 per year
Under the umbrella of the Wangaratta Urban Landcare Group

Email: info@wangarattasn.org Website: http://www.wangarattasustainability.org

This Newsletter designed by the Volunteers at Community Skillsbank, Wangaratta.