Greater Shepparton City Council has scheduled three nature-focused events for later this month.
The events are part of council’s collaboration with the People and Parks Foundation in support of the Nature Pact 2023 campaign.
The initiative, taking place throughout September, encourages residents of Greater Shepparton to pledge at least two hours a week to connect with and care for the natural environment.
Council’s RiverConnect project officer Alison White said she hoped local residents would be inspired to experience the benefits of beloved local nature spots.
“Our parks and waterways provide the perfect setting to connect with nature and enjoy enriching experiences,” she said.
“From Victoria Park Lake to the Australian Botanic Gardens in Kialla, and the Shared Path along Broken River Dve, these spaces offer not just scenic beauty but also a therapeutic refuge for all.
“Modern science is increasingly affirming what Traditional Owners have always known, human wellbeing is directly linked to the health of our natural environment.
“Let’s take this opportunity to care for the nature that cares for us.”
As part of the #NaturePact2023 campaign, Greater Shepparton residents can engage with the natural environment through various events.
Boulevard Bush Reserve Community Day: This event is scheduled for Sunday, September 17, from 10am to noon.
It includes a guided walk to learn about local flora and fauna, a nature treasure hunt and a peaceful morning tea beside the beautiful Kaiela or Goulburn River.
Registration is required for participation.
World Rivers Day: Taking place on Sunday, September 24, this event offers a morning of free school holiday fun at Victoria Park Lake.
Activities for the day include the first-ever River Run Race, where participants form teams, create themes and costumes, and build land canoes for racing.
Alongside this unique event, there will be other stalls, activities, food and entertainment.
Platypus spotting: RiverConnect is hosting ‘Spotting Platypus’ on Wednesday, September 27 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm at Jordan’s Bend (off Jordan Place, Shepparton).
This event was inspired by the Australian Conservation Foundations Platy-Project campaign.
The Platy-Project aims to increase the number of people looking for platypus and recording their findings.
Anyone can be a citizen scientist and at Spotting Platypus, RiverConnect will be showing people exactly what to look for.
For additional event details and registration, residents are encouraged to visit the RiverConnect website at riverconnect.com.au or contact council at 5832 9700.