Green Army recruitment a boost for Maryborough’s Fay Smith Wetlands
6th April, 2016
Federal Member for Wide Bay Warren Truss today announced that a Green Army project has been approved for Maryborough, under the government’s Green Army programme.“Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) will be hosted by the Fraser Coast Regional Council to undertake Green Army projects at the Fay Smith Wetland area,” Mr Truss said.
“Enthusiastic 17-24 year olds are encouraged to join the Green Army, which is fast becoming the largest-ever team of young Australians participating in practical environmental action across the country.
“There have already been a number of successful projects completed around Wide Bay and I am pleased that another will soon be launched in Maryborough. Service Providers are now recruiting young people who want to gain skills while helping our community deliver important local conservation outcomes.”
Mr Truss said the Fay Smith wetland regeneration project is targeting conservation of local flora and fauna species to ensure the protection of a wetland with high ecological significance. The Green Army team will aim to increase the regrowth of native vegetation while enhancing fauna habitats. Managing weeds inhibiting native regeneration will also improve the wetland health and connectivity.
“The programme also offers an opportunity for participants to undertake accredited training and develop skills in Conservation and Land Management. Participants are encouraged to work towards nationally endorsed skills which they will hopefully be able to apply in their future careers.”
Participation is open to Indigenous Australians, school leavers, gap year students, graduates and job seekers aged between 17 and 24 years. An allowance is provided for the duration of the project.
The Green Army is a key Coalition election commitment, with more than $700 million committed over four years. The scheme encourages practical action to support local conservation projects across Australia, providing training to thousands of young Australians.
“Green Army projects are underway around the nation and young people who want to gain valuable skills, training and experience in environmental and conservation fields are encouraged to register their interest”, Mr Truss said.
Anyone interested in joining the Green Army can apply through the appointed Service Providers for each state and territory. Contact details for Service Providers are available from www.environment.gov.au/green-army
