The latest round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is now open, offering primary schools and early learning centres in the Upper Yarra a chance to secure some funding support for hands-on environmental learning projects.
Grants of up to $1,000 are on offer for projects focusing on sustainable food production, improving waste management practices, enhancing native habitats and deepening First Nations perspectives.
Woolworths Seville and Woolworths Yarra Junction Group Manager Rob Valente said getting children involved with hands-on activities in and around nature is an incredible way to help them explore sustainability in action.
“Over the years, we’ve seen some great ideas from schools and early learning centres across Victoria that were brought to life through our Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, encouraging kids to explore, appreciate and care for the environment around them. No idea is too small, and we can’t wait to see what’s ahead for this next round of applications,” he said.
Through its Junior Landcare program, Landcare Australia has also worked closely with First Nations educator and Wiradjuri man Adam Shipp to develop environmental learning activities for educators and children to learn more about how they can have a connection to Country.
The activities range from exploring First Nations weather to creating an Indigenous plant-use garden and exploring a First Nations peoples’ languages map.
First Nations educator with Landcare Australia Adam Shipp said as a proud Wiradjuri man, he believes it is extremely important that environmental-based organisations recognise and work with First Nations groups.
“By teaching younger generations about traditional ways of caring for Country, we can deepen knowledge of and respect for First Nations culture and practices. I look forward to seeing how Upper Yarra students and teachers use the new Junior Landcare resources,” he said.
Applications for the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants close 17 March 2023. To find out more about the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants Program and to apply, visit juniorlandcare.org.au.
Landcare Australia CEO Dr Shane Norrish said Junior Landcare has always recognised the vital role children play in taking care of the natural environment and, thanks to the 2023 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program, they look forward to seeing even more children have the opportunity to take on this role.
“Moreover, as we continue to grow the number of First Nations perspective resources on the Junior Landcare Learning Centre, we are thrilled to be able to support Upper Yarra children and educators in building their knowledge of Traditional Land Management and Cultural Heritage when it comes to caring for our land and water,” he said.
