OCCI receives Envirofund money

The Umina-based Ocean and Coastal Care Initiatives group has received $17,300 in round one of funding from the Australian Government Envirofund for 2003-04.

The group will use the money to organise a World Oceans Day event, a photographic competition and a calendar.

The Coastal Care group will also use the money to address the degradation of local rock platform areas by launching a major media awareness campaign within the general community to build a strong sense of understanding and stewardship of this fragile ecosystem.

Federal Member for Robertson Mr Jim Lloyd said that over $11 million had been awarded under the Howard Government Envirofund to 766 projects Australia-wide.

He said that more money is being made available through Round Two to help local community groups take important practical action to protect land, waterways, coasts, vegetation and threatened species.

"Applications for the second round of the Envirofund for 2003-04 close at 5pm on Friday, January 30.

"Community groups and individuals will have another opportunity to apply for funding from the Envirofund in mid-2004," Mr Lloyd said.

Application forms are available by telephoning 1800 065 823 or visiting the website at www.nht.gov.au.

Press release, November 28