Studying bees or growing food on a nature strip isn’t something most people would contemplate.
But for a group of Hume residents, these notions have formed the basis of their work as environmental champions.
They have been involved in a three-month council-run environmental leadership training program that helps participants design and deliver community projects with good environmental results.
Of the group, 12 will graduate and receive certificates at a ceremony in Sunbury on October 13.
The participants focused on three different projects.
As part of the project named To Bee Or Not To Bee, two groups worked to raise awareness in the community of the decline of native bees. The ‘education’ included the building of bee hotels [hives].
In Fork The Suburbs, participants aimed to grow food in public places, starting with nature strips.
The third project, the Compost Club, involves members promoting composting ideas at major events across Hume in coming months.
Mayor Geoff Porter said the program was a great chance for residents to learn how they could develop environmentally sustainable projects within the municipality.
One of the champs, Lee Scott, said: “When you are concerned about the environment, you think you are the only one who cares.
“In the program you aren’t the only person in the room who is dedicated to changing and beautifying the area.
“It’s fantastic to get together with people who want to make a difference.
