Did you participate in our free fruit net swap pilot program over the summer?
Thank you to everyone who took part. As a result of your efforts, we received almost 250 illegal nets at our collection points in Boroondara between October and March. Illegal nets can harm wildlife and some community members may unknowingly still be using them. As part of this pilot, we invited community members to exchange illegal nets (mesh size greater than 5 x 5 mm at full stretch) for safe, legal fruit netting.
We were pleased to participate in this pilot and education campaign with the Conservation Regulator, RSPCA Victoria, Zoos Victoria, Wildlife Victoria, Animal Welfare Victoria and 4 other local councils.
Across the program, over 600 nets were collected in Victoria. The Conservation Regulator sent the surrendered nets for textile recycling, diverting an estimated 450 kilograms of netting from landfill.
Have your say on the pilot
The Victorian Government is currently inviting feedback about the net swap initiative via a short survey. They will consider feedback as they plan the next possible version of Victoria's Net Swap program.
