NEW GREEN ARMY PROJECTS FOR LYONS

ONE of Tasmania’s most visited tourist destinations is the latest recipient of Green Army project money from the new funding roll-out announced today.

Federal Lyons MP Eric Hutchinson welcomed the announcement of $5000 for Green Army team projects at the Port Arthur Historic site from the third round of the Federal Government’s Green Army fund to be rolled out over the next 12 months.

“Young people in Lyons who are interested in being part of one of the Federal Government’s major environmental initiatives and in helping our community deliver important local conservation outcomes now have the opportunity to join the Green Army,’’ Mr Hutchinson said.

The Port Arthur money from round three will help with the heritage management of both the Port Arthur and the Coal Mines Historic sites through research activities and interpretive installations that protect, conserve and showcase the heritage values of these places.

Work planned for Green Army teams includes construction of traditional post and rail fencing to mark the officers’ allotments and the garden areas in front of the Civil Row cottages.

Green Army teams will also help with archaeological excavation of the Penitentiary ablutions block, ground trothing LiDAR data and cleaning a range of excavated artefacts prior to curation.

Mr Hutchinson said that the Green Army provided opportunities for young Australians aged 17 to 24 years to gain skills, training and experience in environmental and conservation fields while taking part in projects which generate real benefits for the Australian environment.

“Soon our local communities will see Green Army teams deployed to projects in their area for up to six months at a time,” Mr Hutchinson said.

Young people 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/land/green-army/service-providers

Further information on the program is available at www.environment.gov.au/green-army
Federal Lyons MHR Eric Hutchinson