Through the South West Development Commission, $370,000 in State Government money has been allocated to assist south west community groups carry out local services and get new projects off the ground.
One of the successful applicants was the Cape to Cape Catchment Group (CCG), who received funding approval for $20,000.
CCG’s application outlined a plan to conduct a two day ‘Bioblitz’ in the springtime in Margaret River, offering the community an exciting opportunity to engage with industry professionals and gain greater awareness and understanding of the biodiversity within their region.
The Margaret River Bioblitz will see partnerships formed with local project partners who will assist CCG to deliver the event.
CCG has partnered with Astron Environmental Services (Astron) who will provide guidance on survey methods and data collection, and help CCG ensure that the Bioblitz not only increases community awareness of the natural environment but also provides a scientific outcome.
Astron has an office in Margaret River and takes a keen interest in local biodiversity and conservation measures, welcoming the opportunity to get involved with an initiative such as a Bioblitz.
CCG coordinator Caroline Hughes said the group had strong hopes that Bioblitz would turn into an annual event.
“The Bioblitz will include school groups and the wider community participating in surveys of flora and fauna in an A Class Reserve on the foreshores of the Margaret River. The outcome of the surveys will hopefully be a better understanding of the biota supported by the reserve which will guide its future management,” said Caroline.
Other partners include the Perth Zoo, Murdoch University Fish Group, Margaret River Rotary Club, Shire of Augusta Margaret River, Birdlife Australia, Margaret River Primary School, Margaret River Regional Environment Centre, and the Capes Volunteer Team.