Following our successful application for a $20,000 grant under the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources’ Communities Environment Program late last year, work has started on making the oval and the area around the Weather Shed a more sustainable space. Grants were allocated per electorate, with the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP supporting our application.
Contractors have made a gravel bed for a 34,000 litre rainwater tank behind the Weather Shed (as pictured) and will also provide:
- altered downpipes to flow into the tank
- cam lock connections to allow for irrigation
- a mobile water pump on frame with wheels
- a large sprinkler on frame with wheels
- altered connectors on the tanks at the Johnny Warren Hall to allow for use of the mobile pump
Once this work is complete, a variety of indigenous plants will be installed to create a “habitat corridor” along the fence line between the school and the neighbouring Botany Wetlands (the Engine Pond). This area is heritage protected and home to many important species of fauna which will occasionally seek shelter within the school grounds.
The plants will be sourced from a specialist native nursery located within the grounds of La Perouse Public School;
Indigigrow – https://www.indigigrow.com.au
There will also be landscaping work undertaken to create a dry creek bed in between the Weather Shed and the new running track.
