Shellharbour City Council’s Environment Team has been successful in securing grant funding as part of the Flying-Fox Habitat Restoration Program.

The grant of approximately $160 000 from NSW Government’s Environmental Trust in association with Local Government NSW will improve foraging habitat for Shellharbour’s local grey-headed flying-fox colonies as part of the program.

The funding will assist in the planting and long-term establishment of 30,000 new plants throughout Blackbutt Forest Reserve and Croom Reserve. The vegetation will provide a food source for the colonies and will be distanced from nearby residences to minimise noise disturbance.

Shellharbour City Council Mayor, Chris Homer said the project would reduce conflict with residents.

“The new vegetation will be provide a food source away from housing and divert them from fruit trees in contentious areas,” he said.

“This project will also provide opportunity to involve the community in tree planting, education events and more,” Mayor Homer said.

Shellharbour City Council will partner with the Great Eastern Ranges Initiative to deliver the project, which is also assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust in association with Local Government NSW.

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008