Residents and community groups gathered for the official launch of Natural Treasures in Mitchell Shire, officiated by Mayor Louise Bannister on Sunday, May 19, at the Tallarook Cricket Club.
Attending the launch were representatives from Euroa Arboretum, Goulburn Broken Indigenous Seedbank, Wallan Environment Group, and Trust for Nature.
The launch started with a Welcome to Country by Taungurung Elder, Aunty Joanne Honeysett.
The Natural Treasures in Mitchell Shire is a guide to 36 sites of ecological and recreational importance developed by ecologist Dr Peter Mitchell and the BEAM Mitchell Environment Group.
There are 36 sites to explore with mountains, wetlands, plains, and river systems that will deepen one’s appreciation and enjoyment of Mitchell Shire’s great outdoors.
These sites aren’t just for adults; kids can enjoy activities like a scavenger hunt map to find hidden gems at each site, making it a fun family day out.
Ms Bannister commended BEAM for its grassroots work to conserve and advocate for the Shire’s uniquely diverse natural environment, sentiments echoed by Dr Doug Robinson of Trust for Nature.
Attendees were invited to enjoy free native seeds and plants, publications on conservation and land management practices, and a lavish Devonshire tea with real cream, catered by the Trawool Shed Café.
Information and maps for the Natural Treasures in Mitchell Shire are available on the BEAM Mitchell Environment Group’s website at www.beam.org.au/naturaltreasures.