Construction will begin on Monday, June 17, with the works expected to take 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting.
Merrigum-Ardmona Rd will be closed to public vehicle traffic at the immediate site, between Byrneside-Gillieston Rd and Mulcahy Rd, and a detour route will be in place.
Access for residents will be maintained throughout the construction period. The signed detour route will be via Byrneside-Gillieston Rd, Midland Hwy and Tatura-Undera Rd.
For more information, email projects@shepparton.vic.gov.au or phone 5832 9700.
Help needed to solve wildlife crime
Crime Stoppers Victoria and the Conservation Regulator have launched the Wildlife crime: It's your call campaign, to help the public recognise and report wildlife crime.
Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said the volume of reports they are receiving shows Victorians care about protecting native wildlife.
“If you see anything suspicious, your information, no matter how small, could help make a difference and find those responsible for committing wildlife crime,” Ms Smith said.
Chief conservation regulator Kate Gavens said wildlife crime could be an act of cruelty, illegal hunting, or the unlawful keeping, buying, or selling of native animals, and information such as locations, dates, times, number plates, and physical descriptions of people and animals are crucial to finding and penalising those responsible.
To report wildlife crime, contact Crime Stoppers at https://crimestoppersvic.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.
Horticulture ties with Japan
Efforts are under way to grow the trade relationship between Australia and Japan, through a series of inbound and outbound trade activities.
Exports from Australia to Japan are valued at $154 million annually.
Delivered through Hort Innovation, led by AUSVEG and supported by Australian Fresh Produce Alliance, the new program will enable Australian and Japanese horticulture industry representatives to build relationships, expand networks, exchange knowledge, and explore commercial and research opportunities.
Hort Innovation chief executive officer Brett Fifield said the program would strengthen the vital trade relationship between Australia and Japan.
“Japan is currently our fourth-largest trading partner by value, representing six per cent of total Australian horticulture exports, and through initiatives such as this, that opportunity can only grow,” Mr Fifield said.
“This program will see Australian growers showcase where our quality produce originates from through farm visits and tours for Japanese representatives and will offer both countries the chance to establish connections and work together on mutually-beneficial outcomes.”
On track for timber transition
Koondrook is the latest community getting help from the Victorian Government to plan a transition away from native timber harvesting.
Victorian Agriculture Minister Ros Spence has announced an investment of $500,000 for the town of Koondrook to develop a Local Development Strategy as a part of the government’s Forestry Transition Program.
Gannawarra Shire Council will enlist the support of experts to engage with locals, community groups and businesses to identify Koondrook’s strengths, assets, challenges and opportunities for innovation and economic development.
The government said the grant will enable Koondrook to undertake long-term planning to support the local economy and adapt to new industries — increasing job opportunities for workers and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the community.
Koondrook joins 10 other Victorian towns and communities, including Benalla, receiving support to transition and implement new strategies in their local economy.
Building tools to connect Men’s Sheds
A new pilot project aims to better connect Men’s Sheds across the state.
Victorian Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence said the Victorian Men’s Shed Association will use a $100,000 grant to deliver the project.
“This pilot will look at how to make sure Men’s Sheds have the tools they need to forge connections right across the state — enabling this important network to share knowledge and resources with each other,” Ms Spence said.
“Men’s Sheds are an essential part of the social fabric of so many communities right across Victoria, providing an opportunity for men to connect and build friendships.”
While the design of the pilot is still to be determined, it may look at online and in-person components, activities like regular meetings, training and information sessions and the development of new Men’s Sheds resources.
The funding will support the work of thousands of volunteers who help run the more than 360 Men’s Sheds across the state.
