River grant for revegetation, weed control

The Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup’s Preston River Foreshore will benefit from a grant of more than $30,000 to help revitalise and future-proof the tourism hotspot.

The Leschenault Catchment Council, with support from the Donnybrook Lions Club and Donnybrook-Balingup Shire, successfully applied under the State Natural Resource Management Community Stewardship Grants.

LCC project officer Katrina Zeehandelaar-Adams said the grant would help with re-vegetation and weed control work.

“This is a great collaboration opportunity between local community groups, the Shire and LCC,” she said.

The grant of $30,817 is being leveraged with volunteer hours from the Lions Club and other groups which will equate to a total value about $78,875.

Shire president Brian Piesse, who is also a South West Catchments Council board member, commended the collaborative cash and volunteer initiative.

“I am sure this project will be embraced by our community and the many visitors who enjoy the ambience and facilities of tour river foreshores,” Mr Piesse said.

It is this type of cooperative community approach that provides a local solutions to a local challenge.