Killcare Wagstaffe Trust Inc. have received $10,000 through the Federal Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program.

Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP, visited the site in Putty Beach where funds from the program have been used to rehabilitate the dune system.

“It is pleasing to see the outstanding work that has been achieved thanks to funding provided through the Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program”, Dr Reid said.

“The dune system along Putty Beach and Killcare has been supported and rehabilitated through weed removal and re-planting works”.

“I commend and thank all the volunteers that have been involved with this project”, Dr Reid said.

“A special thank you to David Legge and Gai Davies on all their work organising and ensuring this grant funding is put to good use”.

Trust member, Mr David Legge, said the funding has been used to support a range of rehabilitation works.

“The site is part of the Putty Beach Reserve which is 25 Ha of bushland behind the dunes of Putty Beach, between the southern and northern sections of Bouddi National Park”, Mr Legge said.

“It was sand mined in the 1960s and 70s and planted with Bitou bush to stabilise the remains of the dunes. Bitou is an invasive weed which can take over healthy bush”.

“Over the last 15 years a small group of local volunteers have worked to clear the bitou and encourage the regeneration of local species. Grants, such as The Queen’s Jubilee Program, help us employ contractors to deal with the more problematic areas that are beyond the scope of a group working for a couple of hours a week”, Mr Legge said.

“Once rehabilitated, these areas can be managed as part of the weekly regeneration sessions”.

“We are grateful to the Federal Government for supporting the work of local volunteers”, Mr Legge said.

If you would like to get involved with the Killcare Wagstaffe Trust Inc. email [email protected] or visit http://www.killcarewagstaffetrust.org.au/

ENDS