No Images? Click here Welcome to the May edition of Green Living in Wyndham. "Being green is more than just buying 'eco'. It is an unshakable commitment to a sustainable lifestyle". - Jennifer Nini NewsWays to SaveWinter is coming and with it, increased energy bills as we turn up the thermostat to stay warm.The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have developed Ways to Save, a simple and easy to use tool that helps you find information about initiatives and tips to help you save money on your water, gas and electricity, and help the planet. Some quick tips:
Head to Ways to Save to find out more.
Benjamin Bandicoot If you walk in the bush at night, With a snout that can delve and dig, Under the grass and the fern In the depth of the darkest night, -A.B “Banjo” Paterson
Solar Victoria Panel RebateSolar Victoria have announced solar panel (PV) rebates have now closed and will re-open on 1 July 2019. They have confirmed all solar PV eligibility and rebate applications lodged before applications closed will continue to be processed by Solar Victoria, in line with current requirements. Solar Victoria recommends if you are considering installing solar PV with a rebate and have not yet applied to Solar Victoria, you will now need to wait until applications open again on 1 July 2019. After this time, you must have received eligibility confirmation before installing your system to be eligible to receive a rebate. For more information see Solar Victoria.
Fungi SeasonDid you know that fungi are present in the natural environment all year round however it’s not until the Autumn rains occur and the fruiting bodies appear above ground, that we notice them in southern parts of Australia? Fungi play a very critical part in the healthy function of our unique ecosystems as they feed off the decaying material of both plant and animals and can break down organic matter into forms that are accessible to other organisms. Not only does fungi break down organic matter but many plant species rely on fungi for survival as they have a symbiotic relationship between their root systems and the associated fungi. A plant will use the extensive underground network of fungi to help channel water and minerals from the soil into their root systems, thereby increasing the plants nutrient uptake. In exchange for this service, the plant provides the fungi with the products of photosynthesis to fuel the metabolism of the fungi. Head outside this Autumn on a photographic hunt for fascinating fungi! Please remeber not to eat fungi from the wild as many are not suitable for consumption. Call To ActionTake your E-waste to a better place From 1 July e-waste will no longer be accepted in bins throughout Victoria. E-waste is any item with a plug, battery or cord that is no longer working or wanted. From your phone to your fridge, your laptop to your electric lawnmower, it covers a whole range of items from work, home and even the garden shed. Much of our e-waste contains a wide range of precious materials that are non-renewable, including things such as tin, nickel, zinc, aluminium, copper, silver, gold and plastic. However, if e-waste is recycled correctly, these materials and parts can be reused again in other products. Wyndham residents can take their e-waste to our transfer station at the Refuse Disposal Facility, 470 Wests road, for recycling. Or check here for other locations. Wyndham Water Watcher Do you live in Melbourne’s west and regularly visit your local river or creek? If so, the Werribee River Association needs your help! A new app has been launched to assist in collecting data on the quality and condition of our waterways. Download ‘Epicollect5’ from your app store and search for ‘Wyndham Water Watcher’. It’s quick and easy to use, and your answers will contribute to improving the health of waterways in the west. For more information, please contact teresa.mackintosh@werribeeriver.org.au What's OnHealthy Waterways Werribee River Association (WRivA) invites you to a night of storey telling about our local river. At this free community event, you will learn about the work being undertaken by WRivA staff and volunteers, as well as having the opportunity to provide input and feedback into the draft strategic plan. This event is open to all ages with tea and coffee to follow. When: 7:00-8:30pm, Thursday 30 May
Must see documentaries Looking for something to watch on a chilly weekend? Check out Netflix for these environmental documentaries and gain insight into some of the biggest challenges of our time. Stunning cinematography and inspirational leaders in the natural world will get you thinking about the things you can do in your own life to lend a helping hand.
Koala Conservation DayAustralia’s animals need your help! Enjoy a day of wellness in the outdoors and connect with nature on a Koala Conservation Day activity. Book into one of Koala Clancy’s field days and do your bit to improve koala habitat in the You Yangs. You will be accompanied by two wildlife professionals who will guide you through the You Yangs and spend part of the session watching wild koalas, then help to maintain healthy habitat by removing boneseed weeds. Please visit Eventbrite for more information and bookings. World Migratory Bird Day 201911 May & 12 October World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), held twice a year, is an opportunity for people around the world to hold an event to raise awareness for migratory birds around the world. Wyndham’s coastline, including the Western Treatment Plant, is an internationally renowned habitat area for many birds that migrate from various parts of the world. Unfortunatley these international high flyers are faced with many obstacles whilst crossing international borders, including habitat loss, disruptions to their migratory paths and plastic pollution, which is the theme of this year’s campaign. If you would like to hold an event or see what’s on in your area, please visit World Migratory Bird Day for more information. Manage your subscriptionTo manage your details and newsletters you are subscribed to follow the link below. |