The Green Army Team, employed by Skillset, includes nine 17-24-year-olds and a team leader, and is part of the federal ‘Green Army’ program supporting environmental improvements to local areas.

Since October last year, the round one Green Army Team, with the support of Council and Yass Landcare, has been working on the area between Flat Rock Crossing and the Yass Dam (an area locally referred to as the Yass Gorge).

Yass Valley Council Natural Resources and Sustainability Officer Kym Nixon said round two of the project is about extending on round one works of weed removal, clearing and creating new pathways up the Gorge.

“We will be working on continuing to remove invasive weeds like blackberries and willows as this gives native species the space to naturally regenerate.

“The newly cleared pathways will then provide the community with access into the Gorge and they will be able to experience the natural beauty that is so close to home,” Ms Nixon said. 

The Yass Gorge bush regeneration project is a great example of how a collaborative project between the Green Army, Yass Valley Council and Yass Landcare can work according to Yass Landcare President Kate Wilson.

“Our three organisations are working together on this project to produce real results for the Yass community, its visitors and its environment.

“The Green Army Team has definitely been getting their hands dirty these last few months and now we are all looking forward to starting round two and doing what we can to transform the Yass Gorge into the beautiful, natural resource that it deserves to be,” Mrs Wilson said.

The Green Army Team and Yass Landcare are hosting a barbeque for the public on Friday March 13 at 7.30am to celebrate the start of round two and give people the opportunity to see the Yass Gorge works in progress.

For information about bush regeneration contact Council on 6226 1477.

17-24 year olds who are keen to enjoy a positive working experience while gaining new skills and helping the environment are encouraged to apply to Skillset - http://www.skillset.com.au/greenarmy/

Contributed by Yass Valley Council.