As a recipient of Greater Western Water’s (GWW) Thriving Communities grants program, the Sanctuary of Sentient Beings has already planted hundreds of native trees and shrubs, helping improve local waterways and create habitat for native wildlife.
Sanctuary of Sentient Beings has used the grant for its Rewilding and Living Habitat Restoration project, with further restoration works and plantings expected later this year.
GWW General Manager Strategy and Partnerships Kessia Thomson said the Sanctuary’s project is a great example of local communities coming together to care for the environment, strengthen biodiversity and improve the health of waterways and ecosystems for future generations.
“As our region continues to grow and face the impacts of climate change, it’s more important than ever that we invest in the strength and resilience of our communities,” Ms Thomson said.
“By investing in local, grassroots initiatives like this habitat restoration program, we’re helping create healthier environments, stronger community connections, bringing our vision of thriving people and country to life,” she said.
Located on approximately 60 acres adjoining the Brisbane Ranges National Park, the Sanctuary is home to rescued farm animals and supports native wildlife through habitat restoration and land management initiatives.
Sanctuary of Sentient Beings President and Co-founder Jodie Musto said the program brings together volunteers, community members and sanctuary supporters to contribute to the long-term restoration of the property, while strengthening biodiversity and improving the health of local waterways.
“For us, rewilding is about giving nature the space and opportunity to flourish. We are planting native trees and shrubs to extend habitat and strengthen the connection between the Brisbane Ranges National Park, the Sanctuary and an important local water source,” Ms Musto said.
“Caring for the land, vegetation and waterways creates a healthier place for all the beings who call this landscape home. There is something really valuable about getting people out onto the land and giving them an opportunity to actively care for a place together,” she said.
The project reflects the Sanctuary’s guiding principles of rescuing animals, returning the wilderness and caring for Country, while delivering lasting environmental benefits for the local area.
“For a small volunteer-run charity like ours, the Thriving Communities grants program makes a huge difference. It helps fund everything from site preparation and buying plants to fencing, weed management, and the ongoing care needed to establish new habitat,” Ms Musto said.
GWW’s Thriving Communities grants program enables local organisations to deliver projects that strengthen environmental sustainability and waterway health, community connection and community resilience.
To learn more about the Thriving Communities grants program and read about other local grassroots projects making a positive difference in their communities, visit gww.com/thriving-communities
