COMMUNITY groups across Bass Coast and South Gippsland are being urged to apply for a new Small Grants Program launched by the Wonthaggi Seed Bank and Nursery.
Offering up to $5000 per successful applicant, the annual program aims to support conservation and biodiversity projects such as wetlands, foreshore plantings and works undertaken by ‘friends of’ groups, among others. Applications are open now and close on Monday, October 13.
President of the Wonthaggi Seed Bank Committee Susan Peel says the grants will help groups fund more than just plants.
“We have amassed more money than we need for infrastructure and wanted to give back to the community. These grants will help cover costs for tools, plastic guards, spraying and all the things needed to get biodiversity projects off the ground,” she said.
Successful applicants will be announced very shortly after the deadline, with more information and application forms available at www.wsbn.org.au.
The grants come as the nursery gears up for its popular end-of-season surplus stock sale, where plant and garden enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice, taking place on Saturday, September 6 from 10am until noon at the State Coal Mine site in Wonthaggi.
More than 4000 plants will be available from just $1.50. There will be trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers on offer, including a developing line of wildflower species suited to home gardens.
“These are indigenous garden plants that bring in butterflies and insects and help people create biodiverse backyards,” Ms Peel said.
To ensure access for as many people as possible, customers will be limited to ten tubes per species and 100 tubes in total per family group.
“Last year we sold out in 45 minutes, so we have introduced limits to spread the plants fairly,” Ms Peel said.
The nursery asks that customers bring their own box or basket, avoid parking in the café carpark and follow the signs to the Seed Bank.
“We would love to see all these plants in the ground locally. Indigenous species are adapted to this area and support the birds and insects that are losing food sources and habitat.” Ms Peel said.
For more information on both the sale and the grants program, visit www.wsbn.org.au.