Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 11th May 2021

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New threat to rare species

(David Whelan / wildpix.com.au)

Chancing upon flocks of one of Australia’s rarest birds enjoying a local feast was a “special day” for Bacchus Marsh bird photographer David Whelan. Mr Whelan said his friend came across the critically endangered swift parrots recently, observing three flocks containing dozens of the birds feeding on lerp. Visiting the site later that day, Mr Whelan saw about 50 of the parrots and could hear more in the area, which is close to the proposed southern corridor for the high voltage transmission lines planned for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project. “In 2017 we found a group of about 30 or so birds in yellow gum woodland that falls directly within the proposed southern corridor … extraordinarily significant given the 50 or so birds we saw in the last few weeks represents … 5-15 per cent of the remaining total global population,” he said. Mr Whelan said five other threatened or near threatened species had been discovered in habitat near or within the proposed southern corridor inlcuding the black falcon, little eagle and Jacky winter. “This alone should ring alarm bells … force a rethink of the project,” he said. Benjamin Millar

Budget cash for new pool By Benjamin Millar Moorabool council has flagged making a $13 million splash towards a new Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Bacchus Marsh - its biggest ticket item in the draft 2020-21 budget. Star Weekly earlier this year reported ambitious plans to build the new $52 million centre in Taverner Street, featuring an indoor aquatic centre, four-court indoor sports stadium and regional bowls facility with three new bowling greens. The first $13 million is included in the

proposed budget, tabled last week, as part of a $58 million capital works program. Other proposed projects in the budget include $4.3 million for stage two of the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, $2.25 million for the West Maddingley Early Years Facility and $2 million for the Bacchus Marsh Bowls Club pavilion and bowling green. Under the proposed budget the council would adopt the maximum 1.5 per cent rate rise permitted by the state government for the coming year and borrow $12.8 million to help fund capital improvement. A council report on the budget stated

that the proposed budget recognises the importance of setting a clear direction for the future, achieving measurable objectives, being financially responsible and encouraging community input and consultation. “It is part of a four-year Strategic Financial Plan that aims to secure a viable and sustainable path to achieve the shire’s objectives.” Other projects include widening of Old Melbourne Road in Millbrook ($0.8 million) and rehabilitation of Old Geelong Road in Ballan ($0.6 million) and the Darley Civic and Community Hub ($0.6 million). Cr Ally Munari told last week’s council

meeting she had concerns that only $1.795 million of the $83.75 million budget was forecast for spending in the Woodlands ward. “I understand that the council is driven by data, but where does the fair share or common sense come into play? “As a councillor I feel as blinded as the residents at this point.” Councillor David Edwards said the proposed budget is an opportunity for the community to provide input on the draft. Residents can provide feedback on the proposed budget until 5pm Tuesday, June 8 via haveyoursaymoorabool.com.au

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Opens Wed 19 May at 9am 12490430-SN20-21

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