24 March 2014

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor today confirmed Green Army funding for Healing Stonequarry Creek at Picton.

Mr Taylor said the funding was for ongoing works to improve the health and extent of native vegetation along the creek and reduce weeds.

“Healing Stonequarry Creek will employ young people to carry out physical removal and chemical spraying of weeds, pruning of natives already planted along the creek and planting of native tubestock,” Mr Taylor said.

“Weed reduction and the planting of natives will not only improve the visual amenity of the area but mitigate the flood risk caused by weeds impeding water flow. It’s hoped these measures will increase the usability of the area and encourage more awareness in the local community about the native plants of Picton and the heritage uses of the creek.”

Mr Taylor said the program was one of five Green Army projects approved for Hume and part of a wider Coalition commitment to supply a Green Army of up to 15,000 young people to tackle environmental issues in local communities.

“Under this project up to nine young people aged 17 to 24 will be employed for 20 to 26 weeks to carry out the work. Each participant will be paid an allowance, which will vary according to age and qualifications. There will be a Team Supervisor who will be paid a wage consistent with the Gardening and Landscaping Services Award.

“Green Army trainees may need to study conservation and land management modules through NSW Tafe, allowing them to gain skills in native grass identification and native grass seed harvesting, use of chemicals and equipment, fencing, tree planting and use of weed eradication equipment including mattocks and spray packs, as well as seed harvesters.”

In a speech to parliament today, Mr Taylor said there was a growing excitement in local communities about encouraging youth participation and training.

“Only a few months away from kick off in July and already on the ground, teams of organisers are ready to swing young people into action. Youth unemployment is high in parts of my electorate. Youth participation in local community is low. The Green Army Programme is a great initiative to encourage young people who are looking to participate.”  

Mr Taylor said a tender process would be underway shortly to employ a service provider who would engage Green Army team members, pay allowances and manage team activities.

He said further details on how young people could apply would be provided after the service provider was contracted. www.environment.gov.au/topics/cleaner-environment/clean-land/green-army