The Otway Biodiversity Forum was held in Colac recently with participants attending from across the region. Groups representated included management bodies, government agencies, and community organisations.
The Forum, hosted by the Otway Community Conservation Network (OCCN), discussed how current conservation projects and ideas can be linked, prioritized, and improved upon and was aimed at increasing community awareness and improving ecological values and environmental well-being.
Department of Environment and Primary Industries District Planning Manager (Otway District) Craig Clifford said the forum was a well organised and productive day.
“By bringing all the stakeholders together to discuss projects, ideas and possible linkages/partnerships the OCCN can ensure an integrated approach to land management.
“The OCCN provides a platform for groups who do not fit within formalised networks and provides the support and leadership they need,” he said.
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC) Conservation Supervisor Georgina Beale attended the day and was happy with the progress made by all groups.
“We have been able to discover related projects and identify other groups who have the same goals. Hopefully we can team up in the future and have a greater positive impact on the environment,” she said.
Ms. Beale believes programs like GORCC’s Environmental Education Program can really benefit from increased support and partnerships.
“Community organisations and volunteer groups are vital in educating the younger generation…without them, students may not appreciate and take care of the environment,” she says.
To learn more about the Otway Community Conservation Network (OCCN) and how they can help your group or organisation to reach your environmental goals, check out the video below:
The OCCN host regular biodiveristy forums and representatives from all regional groups and organisations are invited to attend. To learn more, contact Luke Hynes on 0406 113 438 or email occn@occn.org.au.
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