By JESSE GRAHAM
YARRA GLEN’S Chocolaterie has taken a foray into conservation, opening a wetlands area for threatened species on its grounds last week.
On Friday 14 November, Tourism Minister Louise Asher visited the Yarra Glen Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery to open the conservation project with owners, Ian and Leanne Neeland.
The wetlands has two billabongs and rock filtration, over 3000 native trees, shrubs and grasses and aquatic plants, as well as endemic and threatened species of fish, turtles and frogs.
Walkways and nature trails with signage also run through the wetlands area, which cost over $150,000 to establish.
The project began in April, and was undertaken with consultation from ecological, engineering and water systems experts and Melbourne Water.
Mr and Mrs Neeland said they wanted to add an element of conservation to the tourist destination, to help educate residents and visitors.
“We hope it will become an engaging and educational compliment to our existing visitor experience, where people can learn about the native flora, fauna and the importance of water conservation,” Mr Neeland said.
He said that school and community groups had been actively involved in planting days, in order to make the wetlands a reality.
Ms Asher opened the area officially with the help of Seymour MP and Eildon candidate, Cindy McLeish.
The Chocolaterie also plans to launch a range of products linked to threatened species, and to work with Melbourne Water to list the project on the AusVELS curriculum for students.
