INSIDE: RED DOG FINDS A NEW HOME, PET OF THE WEEK + MORE
Council News CITY OF WAGGA WAGGA
FIRST PRINTED SATURDAY 17 OCTOBER 2020
Issue No: 317
Weekly information from us to you
Help us keep the kids safe Lifeguards at the Oasis Regional Aquatic Centre are reminding parents and carers to keep watch over their children. See full story inside.
WITHIN ARM'S REACH: Simone stays in the water with her children Scarlett (2) and Sawyer (5) leaving Senior Lifeguard Ryan Menz free to keep watch over the whole pool.
Join in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count Wagga Wagga City Council is encouraging residents to take part in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count as part of National Bird Week.
It’s an activity for all ages that involves observing and counting the birds that live near you – whether in your garden, a local park or even down Baylis Street. The Aussie Backyard Bird Count runs from 19–25 October 2020. To take part, simply stand or sit in one place for 20 minutes and note what birds you see on the free Aussie Bird Count app. Participants can submit multiple counts from any location. As a supporter of the count, Council will have access to locally captured data
including the species identified, the number of each species, and how many people took part. Environmental Officer Samantha Pascall said the information generated from the count would help Council identify what species are present within the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area and track any increase or decrease in their numbers. “The data also provides an indication of the health of our environment,” Ms Pascall said. “For example, if we see lots of birds in an area, we know there are resources available there – habitat, food and water. If, in a few years, we see a decline in those numbers, or in a particular species, we’ll know something is happening and be able to investigate and act.” The information gained from this year’s
count, and subsequent counts, will help Council track progress against the Biodiversity Strategy: Maldhangilanha 2020-2030. Ms Pascall is also hoping the count will help residents rediscover the important role their backyards play in supporting birds. “Birds are a crucial part of our ecosystem, and many native birds rely on our gardens, parks and wetlands for their survival,” Ms Pascall said. “They do so much for us – pollinating flowers, dispersing seeds and helping keep insects under control – as well as filling our spaces with beautiful bird calls. “By making a few changes to your backyard you can help ensure their survival, and enjoy their company for years to come.” BIRD LOVERS: Barbara and Tony Barton join More information on the bird count their grandchildren Walter (12) and Maxine appears on Page 2. (10) in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count.
Weekly waste tip Sharps should never be placed in kerbside bins as they pose a threat to the workers that manage our waste. Visit safesharps.org.au to find your nearest safe disposal point