By Bonny Burrows
Nature buffs can participate in guided tours around Emerald Lake with nothing but their smart phones.
Ten interpretative podiums have been installed around the lake with auto capabilities as part of the Emerald Lake Park vegetation management project, which also included litter removal, habitat preservation and extensive drainage works.
The project was the largest to date undertaken by the Friends of Emerald Lake Park (FELP) group, and was funded by a $600,000 State Government Communities for Nature grant, distributed over the past four years.
Cardinia Shire Environment officer Marianne Sawyer said the interactive audio posts would bring environmental information to people through technology.
“It’s virtually like having a range walking with them,” Ms Sawyer said.
FELP president Sheila Hampson said the project, in particular its vegetation and drainage works, would have a long-term impact on ELP into the future.
The works include removal of holly, the mulching of woody weeds and the creation of an annual spraying program for Angled onion, blackberries and forget-me-knots.
“This has been the first large-scale weed reduction undertaken at Emerald Lake Park. It has been a mammoth task, but by continuing to work together … .it is becoming achievable,” Ms Hampson said.
State Member for Gembrook Brad Battin commended the volunteer group for their work on the project.
“The achievements of the Friends of the Emerald Lake Park are a testament to the ability of community organisations to effect positive change in their local environment,” Mr Battin said.
“Their efforts to remove weeds and improve drainage will make the Emerald Lake Park a better and safer place for future generations.
“I am pleased to be able to work with the council to support this fantastic initiative, and I thank the volunteers for their hard work.”
For more information about the park, visit emeraldlakepark.com.au
