As part of a Transition to Work Program, the Green Army members have been working across the region in conjunction with Mid-Western Regional Council and volunteer groups on projects as far afield as Ferntree Gully, Rylstone and around Mudgee. 

The team’s projects have included clearing willow, elms and wild fennel from the Putta Bucca Wetlands, where they also planted eucalypts. 

The team has also extended plantings at the Bellevue Estate retention basins. 

Team supervisor Emery Joseph estimated that the Green Army had established around 5000 plants across the two sites. 

The team has also undertaken projects at Flirtation Hill in Mudgee, Rifle Range Road, Three Poles Reserve,  the Mudgee Common and Redbank Dam. 

At Rylstone, the team removed prickly pear from the Rylstone Common and along the Cudgegong River, as well as removing willows and elms from along the river. 

Team members have learned skills in chemical use, first aid and basic environment conservation processes, contributing to a Certificate II in land management. 

Team member Leanne Mario said she learned a lot about conservation by participating in the Green Army, including planting and erosion control and building fences. 

“I like working outdoors,” she said.  “I’ve done so much retail, office and building work but I like working in nature and conservation.” 

Team member Rachael Rogers said: “Working with the Green Army has been a new experience and it is great meeting new people”. 

A new Green Army team will begin work on January 9, 2017.  People interested in being part of the Green Army should contact local jobsearch agencies,  visit the Australian Conservation Volunteers website on conservationvolunteers.com.au and look for Mid-Western Region or call program support officer Brett Farrow on 6334 4537. 

The Green Army allows people between the ages of 17 and 24 to gain practical skills in conservation.