At its meeting on Wednesday, 20 May, Bass Coast Shire Council endorsed the renewal of two key environmental partnerships, extending both for a further four years through new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
Council's long‑standing partnership with the Bass Coast Landcare Network, first formalised in 2006, will continue under the renewed agreement. The Network's unique structure which brings together 10 affiliated Landcare groups under one umbrella, provides an ideal model for collaboration with Council.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said that he was pleased to see this important partnership continue.
"The Landcare Network does such great work, and their staff and volunteers are really dedicated to preserving and improving our natural environment which is so important," Cr Tessari said.
"This partnership has seen the planting of 1.68 million plants since 2019 which is just incredible!"
The Network's efforts have also supported local employment, creating 23 jobs including 5 traineeships, contributing to the region's economic vitality.
Council also endorsed a new MoU with the Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation. The Reserve spans French Island and five local government areas: Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, Casey, Cardinia and Bass Coast.
"We've been in partnership with the Biosphere for over 20 years and I'm really pleased to see this continue," Cr Tessari said.
"Renewing this partnership will ensure we can continue key advocacy and environmental services that support Council's goals, including biodiversity enhancement, climate resilience and environmental stewardship."
The renewed partnership underpins several major Council programs, including sustainable land use and development, a coordinated biolinks program with councils across the region, school based environmental education and community volunteering. These projects rely on Western Port Biosphere's expertise in community engagement, on-ground delivery, and advocacy.
